Minimizing Scars after Facelift
Facial wrinkles and sagging skin are an inevitable part of the aging process. Fortunately, there are cosmetic treatments that allow us to address these signs of aging and restore a more refreshed and youthful appearance. Facelift surgery lifts and tightens the skin of the mid and lower face to minimize creases and wrinkles and enhance facial contours.
At Dr. Christopher R. Hove’s practice in Philadelphia, PA, he is careful to conceal incisions so that scars are discreet. But there are other steps our patients can take to further minimize scars after a facelift.
Follow Post-surgical Care Instructions
Incision care is one of the most important parts of facelift recovery. Dr. Hove will provide all of our patients with thorough post-surgical care instructions before they return home after their facelift procedure.
These instructions will teach patients how to care for incision sites properly to promote a smooth and timely recovery while minimizing the risk of infection or other surgical complications that could exaggerate scars. All surgical wounds should be cleaned, cared for, and dressed exactly as instructed in the days and weeks following treatment.
Maintain a Nutritious Diet
Overall physical health plays a role in how a patient will recover from a facelift or any other surgical procedure. It is important that our Philadelphia patients maintain a diet that is rich in nutrients that will promote good health and make it easier for the body to heal after surgery.
Patients should introduce healthy foods well before their facelift procedure, and continue to follow healthy eating habits as they recover. Nutrients that are especially beneficial during surgical recovery include protein, vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin A.
Stay Hydrated
It is important that patients drink plenty of water while they recover from facelift surgery. Hydration is essential to a person’s overall physical health. Additionally, water helps keep the skin moisturized. Skin that is well hydrated will be suppler and more elastic. Nourished skin is more resilient, so it should produce less scar tissue as incisions heal.
Stay Out of The Sun
Our Philadelphia patients should avoid the sun completely for at least the first week or two of facelift recovery. UV rays can slow down the healing process, and can also cause changes in skin pigmentation, which can make scars even more noticeable.
Even after initial facelift recovery is complete, patients should be careful about protecting surgical scars from the sun. Scars and the surrounding skin should always be protected with sunscreen and large hats that will help block out harmful UV rays.
Consider the Use of a Silicone Gel
Many patients choose to use silicone gels or tapes on surgical scars while they heal. These products seal the skin to block out bacteria and keep in moisture. When used appropriately, silicone gels can accelerate healing and encourage the production of flatter, lighter scars. Dr. Hove is happy to provide patients with recommendations regarding these types of products, as well as discuss when and how they should be used.
Contact Us
Facelift surgery lifts and smooths the skin to enhance a patient’s natural beauty and restore a more youthful appearance. If you would like to find out if facelift surgery is right for you, send us a message at your earliest convenience, or call (610) 647-3727 to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Christopher R. Hove.
