Will Massaging My Face After Facelift Surgery Help with Recovery?

Facelift surgery has remained one of the top cosmetic procedures for years, likely due to its life-changing effects and ability to help restore a person’s youthful appearance. However, it’s common for patients to experience certain symptoms after facelift surgery, including pain, bruising, and swelling. Although these effects are a normal part of the healing process and typically subside over time, many patients seek ways to minimize postoperative side effects after their surgery. Luckily, there are several ways to reduce the intensity of swelling and speed up your recovery after getting a facelift.

At Myint Oculo Facial Plastic Surgery, board-certified and fellowship-trained Oculo Facial Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Shoib Myint has extensive experience treating men and women in Las Vegas, NV, Henderson, NV, Summerlin, NV, Los Angles, CA, and Beverly Hills, CA. A facial lymphatic drainage massage is one of the most effective tips Dr. Myint recommends to help maximize patients’ healing process after a facelift.

What is a lymphatic drainage massage?

The lymphatic system collects excess fluid (lymphatic fluid) from cells and tissues, and simultaneously removes toxins and other harmful substances from the body. However, the lymphatic system can be disrupted and overwhelmed during surgical procedures, leading to excess lymph fluid and swelling in or around the treatment area. This swelling can inhibit the healing process and often prevents patients from seeing the full results of their treatment.

Lymphatic drainage massages target the lymph nodes to drain this excess fluid and help reduce swelling, pressure, and inflammation. While aggressive massages can exacerbate irritation, the gentle, rhythmic techniques used during lymphatic drainage massages help reduce the risk of infection and support a healthy recovery.

During the massage, you’ll lie face up while a therapist performs a series of light pumping and rotating motions on your face. Although side effects from surgery won’t disappear right after your massage, the improvement in blood circulation will help any pressure and swelling subside sooner than usual.

Benefits of lymphatic drainage after facelift surgery

There are several advantages to massaging the face after facelift surgery in Las Vegas, NV or Beverly Hills, CA. The following are significant benefits of facial lymphatic drainage massage:

• Reduce swelling and inflammation

• Remove excess lymph fluid, toxins, and metabolic waste

• Prevent fibrosis and seroma development

• Expedite the healing process

• Alleviate pain and promote relaxation

• Support and enhance the immune system

• Minimize scar formation

How to massage your face after a facelift

Not sure if you’re ready for a professional lymphatic drainage massage? You can perform a DIY version of the treatment at home. First, however, you should follow specific guidelines to ensure you don’t injure yourself when massaging your face after a facelift.

Most importantly, facial massage should only be performed after your wounds have closed and your face has begun to heal. Additionally, you should always use very light pressure when performing a lymphatic massage on the face, as applying too much pressure can cause adverse effects.

Choose a neutral facial oil or unscented, rich moisturizer to get started. Lubricant is vital to ensure the massage is performed without friction or painful tugging on the skin. Next, using the palms or your hands or fingertips, slowly apply gentle pressure toward the lymph nodes in your neck. The main tip to keep in mind is to work upward and outward, massaging your skin in gentle circles around the sides of your neck, face, forehead, and eyes. Finally, repeat the process five times in each area for optimal results.

When you visit Dr. Myint in Las Vegas, NV or Los Angeles, CA for your post-op appointment, he will provide further guidance on facial massage techniques and when and how to perform a facial drainage massage at home.

Learn more about the benefits of facial massage at Myint Oculo Facial Plastic Surgery

Every patient heals differently after a facelift, so you should work with Dr. Shoib Myint to discuss the best healing techniques possible. Myint Oculo Facial Plastic Surgery has convenient locations in Las Vegas NV and Beverly Hills, CA to support your recovery and help you achieve the results you’ve always dreamed of. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of facial massage after facelift surgery.