How Do You Sleep After A Facelift?

Undergoing cosmetic surgery, such as a facelift, is a significant decision that involves a considerable amount of time, money, and effort. Following postoperative care instructions can support the healing process and help you feel comfortable during recovery.

One of the most crucial aspects of facelift recovery is getting proper rest and sleep. In this blog, Artiste Plastic Surgery discusses how the procedure works and its recovery, including the correct sleeping position after a facelift.

How does a Facelift Work? 

A facelift is a detailed surgical procedure aimed at recontouring the face and neck through repositioning tissues and removing excess skin. The process starts off with incisions made along the hairline, temples, and around the ears.

The skin is carefully lifted to allow the surgeon access to the underlying tissues like muscles and connective layers. These are tightened and repositioned to achieve specific contours.

Finally, the surgeon removes excess skin and closes the incisions with sutures.

Recovery after a Facelift 

Recovery after a facelift may take several weeks, during which swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common. Patients should rest, take medication, and follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions. 

Each person’s recovery timeline varies and there’s no set timeframe for returning to work or other daily activities after a facelift. Swelling and initial healing may take several weeks. 

Healing rates, facial anatomy, job demands, and other factors during surgery all play a role in determining when to resume normal activities.

It is possible for some people to feel ready after several weeks while others may need longer. Following the advice of the surgeon during the recovery process should be paramount. 

Correct Sleeping Position After Facelift Surgery:

After facelift surgery, it is crucial to sleep in a specific position to minimise swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Sleeping with your head elevated at a 30-45 degree angle is the most recommended position. This position helps to reduce swelling and increase blood flow, which promotes healing. 

You may be advised to avoid sleeping on your side or stomach and flexing your neck for at least two weeks after surgery. These sleeping positions can lead to additional swelling and discomfort. If you need to turn over during sleep, do so carefully, and try not to apply pressure to the face.

Facelift by Dr Jack Zoumaras

If you’re considering facelift surgery in Sydney consulting with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr. Jack Zoumaras may help you explore your options. He can discuss pre- and post-operative care, answer all your questions and hesitations to ensure you’re well-informed before deciding.

For additional insights, Dr. Zoumaras’s book, The Art of a Facelift  (Second addition pending), provides an overview of the procedure, though it is not a substitute for medical advice and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. Reach out to learn more or schedule a consultation if you’re ready to discuss options.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.