Postop swelling
I am a 59 year old female 9 days post op from a bilateral facelift, upper and lower blepharoplasty, lateral brow with fat injections and my question is related to the swelling. My surgeon says I have less bruising than the average patient but increased swelling. Is this typical and what can I do or not do to reduce the edema...mainly in my cheeks. It's difficult to smile and hoping my dimples are under there somewhere! LOL Yikes! Is this normal? Thank you for your input and time. SMP
You're only slightly more than one week post-op. Swelling and bruising are expected at this point. Its great that you have less than average bruising. But having more than average swellings no big deal. It takes 2-3 weeks for the swelling to subside to a point that you feel like you are looking like yourself again. It takes 2-3 months for you to feel like you're back to normal again. Hang in there! Your dimples will be back in no time! And on a refreshed looking face to boot!
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Thank you for your question. This sounds normal at this point. The is no standard expectations on recovery. Every patient is different. Minimizing exertion and sleeping with your head elevated will help reduce swelling. If you have any significant concerns please visit with your surgeon.
Best wishes
With the current trends in Facial Rejuvenation with fat grafting this sounds OK. It is always best to ask these questions of your surgeon. Perhaps a call & visit are in order?
Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS