Are you thinking about a face lift to to improve your personal appearance? If so, here is a tip for you. This is what you can expect AFTER the face lift surgery.

A small, thin drainage tube may be temporarily placed under the skin behind the ear to drain any blood that might collect there. The head is wrapped loosely in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling. Usually there is not much discomfort after surgery and pain medication can relieve it. Some numbness of the skin is normal and will disappear in a few weeks or months.

The head will be elevated on two pillows (or at a 30 degree angle) for a couple of days after surgery to keep the swelling down. The drainage tube will be removed 1 to 2 days after surgery if one was inserted. Bandages are usually removed after 1 to 5 days. The face will look pale, bruised, and puffy, but in 4 to 6 weeks it will be looking normal.

Most of the stitches will be removed in 5 days. The stitches or metal clips in the hairline could be left in a few days longer if the scalp takes longer to heal.

If you do elect to have the procedure, compare as many different surgeons as you can. This is elective surgery, it will not likely be covered by insurance, so you want to be able to compare fees and services. The more surgeons you talk to, the more you will know and be able to make an informed decision.