After care
Facial Care and Cleansing
- Avoid getting incisions wet for first 3-4 days
- Gentle facial cleansing with head tilted back
- After suture removal: normal cleansing acceptable
- Avoid harsh products initially
- Sunscreen essential on face
Activity Restrictions
- No heavy lifting or bending for 3-4 weeks
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 2-3 weeks
- Light walking acceptable from day 2-3
- No swimming or soaking until fully healed
- Sauna/steam: wait 2-3 weeks minimum
Swelling and Bruising Management
- Swelling peaks at 48-72 hours
- Bruising extensive initially; fades gradually
- Ice packs for first 3-4 days
- Warm compresses thereafter
- Head elevation critical to control swelling
- Swelling gradually improves over 1-3 months
Dressing and Suture Removal
- Head dressing typically removed after 24-48 hours
- Sutures usually removed at 7-10 days
- Bandaging may continue for support
- After suture removal: gentle care continues
- Hair washing acceptable after suture removal
Facial Expression and Movement
- Avoid excessive facial expressions for first week
- Smiling and frowning minimal for comfort
- Gradually return to normal expressions
- Avoid extreme mouth opening
- Chewing: soft foods only initially
Pain and Discomfort
- Tightness and numbness common
- Pain usually mild to moderate
- Manage with prescribed medication
- Numbness gradually resolves over weeks
- Tightness gradually improves over 4-6 weeks
Return to Activities
- Driving: 48 hours (off pain meds)
- Office work: 2-3 weeks
- Light activity: 2-3 weeks
- Exercise: 3-4 weeks (gradually)
- Full recovery: 4-6 weeks for most activities