Recovery from surgery requires ample rest for both your mind and body. It's normal to experience increased fatigue and reduced energy during the initial 6-week post-surgery period. Bruising and swelling are common after the procedure. Bruising typically subsides after the first 2 weeks, and a significant portion of the swelling goes down within 6 weeks, with some residual swelling expected for 2-3 months.
- Contact the office immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Body temperature exceeding 100 degrees
- Sudden and excessive pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Excessive bleeding
- Rapid swelling of the neck or face
- Care for your dressings:
- Keep them dry and clean, and they will be removed during your follow-up at the office.
- Showering and hair washing:
- Wait 48 hours after surgery before showering or washing your hair. Be gentle, avoid scrubbing the incisions, and pat dry.
- Medication restrictions:
- Avoid Aspirin, Aspirin-containing drugs, and Vitamin E for 2 weeks following surgery.
- Sleeping posture:
- Sleep on your back, not using a pillow, maintaining a 90-degree angle for your neck. Do not sleep with your neck bent forward.
- Reading posture:
- When reading, raise the book to eye level to maintain a 90-degree neck position. Avoid bending your neck downward.
- Head movement:
- When turning your head, ensure that you turn your head and shoulders as a unit, avoiding excessive neck movement.
- Diet:
- Eat a soft diet and avoid vigorous chewing for 3-4 days after surgery.
- Alcohol restriction:
- Refrain from alcohol consumption for 2 weeks post-surgery.
- Driving:
- Do not drive for at least 1 week following surgery.
- Ice and heating pads:
- Refrain from using ice or heating pads on the neck or face.
- Blow dryer usage:
- If and when you use a blow dryer, use a cool setting for the first couple weeks after surgery to prevent scalp burns.
- Makeup application:
- You may apply makeup 1 week after surgery, taking care to be gentle when removing it.
- Sun protection:
- Avoid sun exposure to the face for 6 weeks after surgery, and use sunscreen thereafter.
- Water activities restriction:
- No baths, saunas, Jacuzzis, swimming, steam rooms, or anything else that submerges the incisions until they have completely healed, usually after at least 6 weeks.
- Lifting and physical activity:
- Do not lift, push, or pull anything weighing more than 2 lbs for 2 weeks.
- Avoid strenuous activity, lifting, or bending for the first 6 weeks after surgery.
- Short walks are encouraged during the first two weeks. Aim for 10-15 minutes of walking 3-4 times a day, even on the first day after surgery.
