WHAT
TO EXPECT AFTER THE SURGERY
Even though most patients experience
very little pain after surgery, Dr. Smith will still
prescribe medication. Some degree of swelling and bruising
is unavoidable, and Dr. Smith will instruct you to
use cold compresses to keep swelling to a minimum.
Dr. Smith will also instruct you to keep your head
elevated when lying down, to avoid as much activity
as possible and to report any undue discomfort. Though
there are few risks in face lift surgery and thousands
are performed every year, some risk exists in any surgery.
All sutures and staples are usually removed after one
week following surgery. Dr. Smith recommends that patients
avoid vigorous activity following the procedure. Patients
should prearrange for postsurgery support from family
and friends. Recovery usually takes two to three weeks,
though many patients go back to work sooner.
Scars are usually not noticeable
after enough time has passed for them to mature. In
any case, they are easily disguised in natural skin
creases, by the hair or, in persistent cases, by makeup
until total healing has occurred. Bear in mind that
the aging process continues after surgery and that
some relaxation of tissues will occur over the first
few weeks.
Facial plastic surgery makes it possible
to correct many facial flaws and signs of premature
aging that can undermine self-confidence. By changing
how you look, cosmetic surgery may help change how
you feel about yourself.
Insurance does not generally cover
surgery that is done purely for cosmetic reasons. Surgery
to correct or improve genetic deformity or traumatic
injury may be reimbursable in whole or in part. It
is the patient’s responsibility to check with
his/her insurance carrier for information regarding
coverage.
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