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Step-by-Step Recovery after Your Mini Facelift Procedure5 min read

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Phillip Chang

Board Certified By The American Board of Plastic Surgeons. Voted Top Plastic Surgeon in Loudoun, Virginia. Offices in Leesburg, Virginia.
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Thousands of patients are asking themselves every month: “What is a mini facelift?” A mini facelift is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the face and neck. It can be used to correct signs of aging such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and jowls. The surgery is typically performed on patients in their 50s or 60s, but younger patients with premature signs of aging can also benefit from a mini facelift.

The mini facelift is a relatively minor surgery, so most people quickly recover after the procedure. However, carefully following the postoperative instructions is vital to ensure a smooth recovery. Dr. Phillip Chang of Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center, an expert in mini facelifts, creates a customized recovery plan to ensure patients that they get the best results possible. In this article, Dr. Chang shares a step-by-step guide to recovering from a mini facelift.

Preparing for Your Mini Facelift Procedure

Step 1: Prepare for Your Surgery

Before your surgery, you will need to do a few things to prepare. First, you will need to stop smoking and avoid smoking cigarettes for at least two weeks before and after the surgery. You should also avoid drinking alcohol for at least two weeks before and after the surgery.

Furthermore, the first recovery days ask for external help, perhaps from a family member or a close friend. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for the first few days. It would help if you also stocked up on food, water, pain medication, ice packs, and bandages.

Step 2: The Day of Your Surgery

On the day of your mini facelift, you will need to arrive at the surgical center early to be adequately prepared for surgery. You will be given a hospital gown to wear, and you will be asked to remove all of your jewelry and other metallic objects.

Once you are ready for surgery, the surgeon will make an incision in the hairline or behind the ear. They will remove excess skin and tighten the muscles and tissues. The surgeon will then close the incision with stitches.

Step 3: Recovery after Surgery

Immediately after surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room, where you will be monitored for a few hours. You may experience swelling and bruising after surgery, which is perfectly normal. You will also likely notice some pain and discomfort. 

The following tips can help you minimize pain and swelling after surgery:

  • Ice packs: Apply ice packs to the surgical site for the first few days.
  • Pain medication: Take pain medication as prescribed by your surgeon.
  • Compression garment: Wear a compression garment for the first few days to help minimize swelling.

Rest: Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days.

Step 4: Returning to Normal Activities

Most patients return to normal activities within a week or two after surgery. However, it is vital to listen to your body and take it easy during the recovery process. Plastic surgeons recommend avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for at least two weeks after surgery.

You will also need to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks after surgery. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your surgeon.

Step 5: Mini Facelift Results

The initial results of your mini facelift surgery will be visible the moment you leave the procedure room. However, the final results will not be seen until the swelling and bruising have subsided, which can take close to two weeks. 

Most people are happy with the results of their mini facelift surgery and report a more youthful appearance. However, it is important to remember that the surgery results are not permanent unless you choose a lifestyle to reflect your aesthetic goals. Exercise, a healthy diet, and the absence of tobacco and alcohol will help you preserve your mini facelift results for years to come!

How Much Do Mini Facelifts Cost?

Generally, a mini facelift will cost around $5,000, but it really depends on what type of surgery you get and what facial areas will be involved. If you have a complicated surgery, the mini facelift is going to be more expensive.

Your best bet is to talk to Dr. Chang about the specifics of your surgery and get a quote directly from him. That way, you can be sure that you’re getting an accurate estimate. A mini facelift can give you great results without the long recovery time of a regular facelift. So if you are considering mini facelift surgery, be sure to consult with Dr. Chang at Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center!

Invitation

Would you like to know if you are an ideal candidate for a facelift procedure? We invite you to simply come in for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Chang or one of the cosmetic laser and injection nurses to explore whether you would make a good candidate. To find out more whether Aesthetica can help you, contact us online or at 703-729-5553 to arrange an appointment. Dr. Phillip Chang is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Northern Virginia near Leesburg, Virginia and an expert in a wide variety of cosmetic treatments.

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