Although there are many cosmetic surgery procedures that can be performed within a few hours, the recovery time for them may be a little longer than anticipated. Here are a few of the most commonly performed procedures, along with the recovery time a patient can expect to experience afterwards.
1. Rhinoplasty
More commonly referred to as nasal reconstructive surgery or a “nose job,” candidates can either have their noses enlarged, made smaller or completely re-shaped. In most cases, candidates can go home the same day, but will usually have to refrain from any form of strenuous activity for approximately three weeks to a month afterwards. Patients can expect the swelling and bruises that is associated with the procedure to last up to 14 days in most cases.
2. Botox
Unlike many other cosmetic surgery procedures, Botox recipients are often able to have the injections inserted and return to normal activity the same day. However, patients will usually be advised not to rub or scratch the areas where the treatments have been administered, as it could cause them to leak into the rest of the body. It is also crucial to ensure that patients do not use any aspirin, anti-inflammatories or blood-thinning medications for a few days afterwards, as these could contribute to bruising around the injection sites.
3. Blepharoplasty
Also known as eyelid surgery, blepharoplasty can either be performed as an outpatient procedure or as one where the patient spends the night in hospital. Patients will need to refrain from any heavy or strenuous physical activity for between 10 and 14 days after surgery, while also ensuring that their eyes are able to get plenty of rest during this time as well. In most cases, the swelling and bruising caused by the surgery can be expected to diminish after about two weeks as well.
4. Laser Facial
This treatment involves the removal of the outer layer of facial skin to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and some blemishes. While this is performed as an outpatient procedure, the recovery time can sometimes be as long as several weeks because of the fact that the skin will be extremely sensitive from the treatment. Patients are advised to rinse their faces with cold water a few times a day and to stay out of the sun for at least seven to 10 days afterwards. Thereafter, it is recommended that they use a broad spectrum sunscreen for a week or two afterwards to prevent sunburn.
5. Facelift
In most cases, patients who have facelift procedures performed can usually return to their normal routines within 10 to 14 days, provided that they feel comfortable enough to go out in public. Patients are usually advised to refrain from strenuous activity for a week or two afterwards and it is important to remember that full healing may sometimes take as long as six months.
Provided that patients follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions, the healing and recovery times for these procedures will take place timeously. Although your surgeon’s instructions may seem like a lot of hard work to follow, knowing that you will be able to sport a completely new look as a result of your surgery will make adhering to them worthwhile.
