Facelift recovery and swelling?

Thank you for your questions.  In my opinion I would only use a compression mask if a patient had neck liposuction, as this helps control swelling.  My patients which just have a facelift, I feel this is not necessary to wear a compression mask.  Tape will be put over incisions to protect and my patients will use the following protocol as a guideline for their recovery:Here is a list of “Do’s and Don’ts”:Do use a cool pack on the incisions as this will help reduce any residual fullness.Do continue with painkillers if required, as around 5% of patients will have some ear pain which will settle within a week or two. Do shower and hair wash daily.Do resume normal activities however avoid vigorous exercise or heavy lifting for 2 weeks post procedure.Don’t apply any make up, moisturiser or oils to the incision line until advised by us. Don’t allow pets of any variety to share a bed with you and avoid allowing pets near your face for the first four weeks after your procedure. Allowing pets near your face has the potential to result in an infection. However being vigilant will help reduce this risk.Do be vigilant with hand hygiene.Do notify us immediately if you have any concerns or notice any increased redness, heat around the incision or if you have any discharge from around the ear.Once you have seen your plastic surgeon for your follow up, they may advise on when you can start massaging the incision areas and the best technique to use. They may recommend the use of scar improvement oils such as Bio-oil.All the Best with your recovery!

Thank you for your question for sharing your concerns with us. Swelling and firmness in the tissues will return to normal as time passes by. Between the first and second week, much of your swelling and bruising will dissipate. I generally recommend patients use compression for the first week non-stop with the exception to shower.  For the second week, I encourage them to use a whenever they can but for ~12 hours a day if possible.It may take more than a month or two for your tissues to fully soften and any residual swelling to resolve. Lymphatic massage maybe an option to help clear the swelling and firmness at a faster pace. I would make sure that you continue to follow up with your plastic surgeon during this period of time.