Scientifically proven post-operative care procedures after a facelift.

Whether you choose a thread lift or surgical facelift, post-operative care at home plays a crucial role, accounting for up to 50% of the aesthetic results and the speed of facial healing. Below are some important notes from medical experts.

Control swelling and clean the wound.

  • Cold and warm compresses: During the first 48 hours after the procedure, the face will experience slight swelling. Apply cold compresses around the swollen areas (avoid applying directly to the wound) to reduce swelling. From the third day onwards, switch to warm compresses to help dissolve bruising.

  • Proper hygiene: For surgery or thread lifting, keep the incision/injection site dry in the first few days. Gently clean with a cotton swab soaked in saline solution daily. Do not apply any skin creams without a doctor’s prescription.

Exercise routine and sleeping posture

  • Wearing a compression bandage: If you have had a facelift, wearing a compression bandage as directed by your doctor is mandatory to stabilize facial muscles, reduce swelling, and help the skin conform to the new facial shape.

  • Sleeping position: Always sleep on your back, using a high pillow for the first 1-2 weeks. Absolutely do not sleep on your side or stomach, as the pressure can dislodge the stitches or affect the surgical incision.

  • Limit strong facial expressions: Avoid laughing loudly, crying, opening your mouth too wide, or chewing hard foods during the first month to prevent straining the recovering facial muscles.

Diet and lifestyle

  • Avoid irritating foods: Stay away from foods that can easily cause scarring, pus formation, or itching, such as water spinach, beef, seafood, chicken, and sticky rice. Alcohol, beer, and tobacco are strictly prohibited as stimulants slow down blood circulation, delaying wound healing.

  • Medication and Follow-up Appointments: Take antibiotics and painkillers as prescribed, in the correct and complete dosage. Attend follow-up appointments for suture removal (for surgical cases) and to check the progress of facial muscle recovery.

Dr.Xuân Quân.

Dr. Xuan Quan is a cosmetic surgeon with nearly 10 years of experience; a graduate of Hanoi Medical University, he continuously updates his skills with advanced cosmetic techniques from South Korea and Singapore. He currently oversees professional standards and reviews medical content on the website, ensuring that all information provided is accurate, reliable, and grounded in specialized medical knowledge.