Can acupuncture help reduce swelling after a facelift? 3 weeks post op.

Question

I am on my third week of recovery following a facelift. So, naturally, even though my swelling has somewhat subsided, there is still quite a bit of it around (luckily my bruising was minimal, only of the yellowish kind, and merely lasted about ten days, give or take). Could acupuncture help speed up the reduction of swelling? Have any of your patients tried it? Thank you, doctors, for your help.

A. Joshua Zimm, MD · Answer

At 2-3 weeks after a facelift, there is still some significant swelling.  I don't recommend acupuncture to my patients because there is no evidence that it's helpful.  For my patients, I recommend elevation of the head and warm alternating with cool compresses.  Sometimes massage is helpful, but you should speak to your surgeon about any specific recommendations he/she might have.  Best wishes.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

BeauSoleilBeau.  I appreciate your concern however swelling after facelift surgery is quite normal because the blood supply to the face is significant. I do not believe acupuncture will help, but I would ask your plastic surgeon for advice in this regard. Good luck.

Neil T. Chen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I do not recommend it for my patients. I recommend head elevation, massaging and warm compress. Check with your surgeon for the proper post op protocol he/she recommends.

Can acupuncture help reduce swelling after a facelift? 3 weeks post op.

Answers (3)

More Facelift Questions

Can acupuncture help reduce swelling after a facelift? 3 weeks post op.

Answers (3)

More Facelift Questions

What is the difference between a SMART facelift and a traditional facelift and the downtime?

Is it normal for a new bruise to appear 3 weeks after a facelift?

Parotid gland following facelift, advice? 8 days p.o.