Recovery Process

It is important to use cold compress to avoid swelling and bruising for the first 24 hours. However, make sure not to get the bandages or stitched areas wet. This could cause infection.

The tubes used for draining are usually removed after the first 24 hours. It is important to keep your head elevated and try not to move. The stitches at your ears hold all the weight of your skin. Too much pressure or stretching from activity can result in a less than desirable appearance. Extra pillows will not only help to elevate your head but will also cradle your head. This also reduces swelling.

Often there is a general discomfort and bruising. There should be no major pain or swelling. However, there will be varying degrees of pain and discomfort.

Bruising varies but usually fades after a few days. Many patients experience a sensation of tightness or numbness. The face will be numb in some areas. This is from slight damage to the nerve fibers. After 6 to 12 weeks the nerve fibers will all grow back.

In some rare cases, numbness can last up to nine months. Use mild pain medication as necessary such as Tylenol or prescribed Hydrocodone. If you are concerned about the pain or bruising, speak with your doctor.

Be sure to have someone around the house who can help you. This person should help to rotate the cold compress, answer the phone, and prepare your meals. For a speedy recovery and best results, you must limit your physical activity. This means no sex or heavy exercising. Sex and exercising increase your blood pressure. An increase in blood pressure can result in bleeding or stretching of stitches. Even talking or moving the jaw should be avoided right after the surgery since this can dislodge the stitches. All vigorous activity should be avoided for one full month after surgery.

Your diet should be liquid soft for the first 48 hours. Chewing promotes swelling and bruising. In addition to liquids, your diet should be high protein and contain vitamins. Avoid preservatives because preservatives promote swelling. When you first begin to stand try not to swivel your head around too much. Walking will help to heal but be sure not to bend over for three weeks after the procedure.

After the first dressing is removed your face will be swollen and bruised. Your hair will also be matted from the antiseptic solution. Your first instinct may be to shower but you must wait till two days after surgery. When you are ready to shower make sure there is someone there to help you.

Your stitches or closings are usually removed seven to ten days after the procedure. Chances are you will be exceptionally tired after surgery. Many patients loose weight from a decrease in appetite as well as an increased metabolism from healing. The more sleep you get the faster you will heal. You will still need to rest even after two weeks and despite first feeling better.

It is important not to smoke for at least two weeks after surgery. Smoke can constrict the blood vessels in your face which can be harmful to your skin and healing process. Most patients return to work in 12 to 14 days. It is important to remain near your doctor in case you have questions or concerns. Do not fly away or go on vacation. When the recovery process has run its course and healing is complete, you will have a natural and rested appearance.