Many cosmetic surgery recoveries include some sort of at-home massage regimen. These massages can help relieve swelling, pain, and other side effects. However, in some cases, they can also help the skin, tissues, and other structures of the face settle adequately. Massages are commonly recommended after surgeries such as breast augmentation and tummy tuck. However, sometimes, Dr. Jindal recommends that patients gently massage their faces after a facelift in Raleigh, NC.
Every surgeon has a slightly different massage protocol for their facelift patients. Some prefer a gentle Swedish massage technique while others prefer a lymphatic massage technique. Regardless, many of the other aspects of massaging the face after a facelift remain the same no matter which technique is used.
How to Massage the Face After a Facelift
Firstly, patients should not begin massages until instructed by Dr. Jindal. Not all facelift surgeries require massage and some may need varying techniques. However, massaging the face after a facelift should not begin until the incisions have begun to heal and are no longer at major risk of breaking open. This is usually within one to two weeks.
From there, patients will use upward strokes in carefully selected areas. Massages can achieve various goals such as helping to return sensation to the operation area, reducing swelling, reducing scarring, improving circulation to the area, improving patient comfort, and promoting lymphatic drainage. Often, the massage will occur in areas where swelling is present or near surgical sites.
The most important part of performing a massage after a facelift Raleigh, NC is to be gentle. The goal is not to perform a deep tissue massage on the face. Putting too much pressure on the fragile area can cause further bruising, discomfort, and damage to the area. It can also affect the final result. Therefore, carefully follow Dr. Jindal’s instructions.
Other tips for performing post-surgery massage on the face:
- Always use moisturizer, lotion, or similar lubricant
- Continue to protect scarring and the face generally from the sun and the elements
- Massages after a facelift are generally performed between two and three times per day
- Consider professional lymphatic massage and drainage
- There is no need for additional tools, just use your hands
- Wash your face and hands before the massage
- Never perform post-surgery massages when there are still stitches, staples, or sutures present unless directed by Dr. Jindal
- Have a caretaker perform the massage if you feel uncomfortable doing so, but ensure they have received direct instructions from Dr. Jindal
- The massage should not be unpleasant or uncomfortable beyond some light pressure. If it is, be more gentle or stop altogether
Conclusion
The cheapest facelift is not always the best one. When considering a facelift surgeon, do not make your decision solely based on who has the lowest price. Many of these cheap facelifts do not include adequate post-surgery care or follow-up. To schedule Dr. Sumeet Jindal at the Jindal Institute for Youthful Aging, call us at (919) 929-6006. Patients can also reach out online through email drsumeetj@jiyacosmetic.com, chat, or Price Simulator.
