How to Manage Facelift Bruises

Bruising is the body’s natural response to injury, damage, and even surgical changes. A facelift can result in some bruising around the lower and mid-face, and while that only means that you are healing, it can be an inconvenience for many patients. Every patient heals differently, so it’s difficult to predict how much any individual will bruise after facelift surgery. If you plan ahead to manage your bruises, you may be able to minimize them throughout the healing process.

What to Expect From Bruising

No one wants to think about bruising on their face. After all, it’s hard to hide and it can appear more painful than it actually is. Predicting how much bruising you will get is also very difficult, so it’s understandable why so many patients are nervous about their appearance after surgery. If you normally bruise easily, this could be an indicator that you may have more bruising than the average patient. But don’t panic, because it’s not always necessarily the case. While it is unpredictable how much bruising you should expect, your facial plastic surgeon will be able to help you manage your facelift after-effects.

Proper Post-Operative Care for Your Face

Your steady, speedy recovery begins with your surgeon’s after-care instructions. If you’re hoping to avoid major bruising, your best chance is to get plenty of rest, manage your pain and swelling, and keep your head elevated as much as possible. By limiting the blood flow in this way, you’re less likely to develop widespread, dark bruises. Talk with your facial plastic surgeon about other strategies he may have for lessening the bruising that results from your facelift surgery.

Covering Up Your Bruises

The most popular strategy for covering bruising is to use cosmetic products. Makeup can cover over discoloration, even tone, and blend out splotches if used correctly. Both men and women can effectively use makeup products to cover over bruises in a natural-looking way. To optimize your makeup use, follow these tips:

• Talk with a makeup expert. Steer clear of the pharmacy and head for a brand name makeup counter, where you can get an expert opinion on your coverage options.

• Work with a professional to match your natural skin tone for the best (and least noticeable) look.

• Choose a formula thick enough to adhere to soft scar tissue as the face heals.

• Look for sensitive formulas that are free of fragrance and dyes, hypoallergenic, and non-pore-clogging. The gentler your makeup is, the better off you’ll be.

• Decide if you’re best served with a powder, liquid, or cream makeup. Concealer can also be useful to hide darker bruises around the eyes and mid-face.

Once you’ve chosen the right formula and tone for your post-facelift skin, it’s time to learn how to apply your makeup. Use foam wedges for the most even application of your new makeup. Start with a small amount, working down and out from the middle of the forehead. Be sure to blend the edges outward to avoid an obvious line around your face. Finally, make sure you start with a small amount of makeup and build your coverage gradually to find the right amount of product to use.

Be Careful When You Cover-Up

After facelift surgery, you’ll have to wait for the all-clear before you begin covering your bruising and scars with makeup. You should be resting at home during these crucial first days of recovery anyway, so covering up shouldn’t be on your priority list. Follow your facial plastic surgeon’s instructions to give your body enough time to heal. Doing so can help you avoid infection, skin irritation, and healing delays. If at any time your makeup causes redness, itching, or other issues, stop using it right away and consult with your doctor.

Start the Facelift Process Today

Consult with a facelift surgeon who will guide you through the process from beginning to end. Dr. Andrew Frankel is board certified in both Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ENT). His focus is on facial rejuvenation, especially through procedures such as the facelift, brow lift, or eyelid surgery, as well as rhinoplasty.  Since 1994, Dr. Frankel has been practicing at the Lasky Clinic and earned recognition as an expert in his field. He has many publications on a variety of topics including midface lifts, Botox, rhinoplasty, and more. To consult with Dr. Frankel, contact the Lasky Clinic located at 201 South Lasky Drive in Beverly Hills, CA. Call (310) 552-2173 to schedule your appointment today.