If you’ve had a facial rejuvenation procedure or are planning on having one soon, you will want to make sure you’re set up for success in the postoperative period. Here’s what you need to know about the postop process and how to expedite your healing.
Facial surgery is an investment in yourself, and how you heal matters just as much as the procedure itself. While your surgeon’s technique plays a critical role in your outcome, your recovery process has a major impact on how quickly you heal, how comfortable you feel, and how refined your final results look.
At 817 Surgical Arts, Dr. Emily Johnson emphasizes recovery as an essential part of facial rejuvenation. For patients undergoing procedures such as a deep plane facelift, structural neck lift, or other facial surgeries, there are proven, science-backed ways to support healing and help your body recover more efficiently.
Healing does not have to mean prolonged downtime. With the right approach, you can recover smarter, not harder.
Why postoperative healing matters after facial surgery
After facial plastic surgery, your body immediately enters a healing phase. Swelling, bruising, inflammation, and temporary stiffness are normal responses as tissues repair and remodel. Supporting this process properly can help:
- Reduce swelling and bruising
- Improve comfort during recovery
- Promote healthier skin healing
- Shorten visible downtime
- Optimize long-term surgical results
Patients who prioritize recovery often notice that their swelling resolves more smoothly and their results appear more refined as healing progresses.
Supplements that support surgical healing
ARNICA AND BROMELAIN
Arnica and bromelain are commonly recommended supplements after facial surgery to help reduce bruising and inflammation.
Arnica is a natural remedy that supports the body’s inflammatory response and may reduce visible bruising. Bromelain, derived from pineapple enzymes, can help decrease swelling and improve circulation during recovery.
Dr. Johnson frequently recommends these supplements as part of a comprehensive postoperative plan.
Always follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding dosage and timing.
CO2lift masques
CO2Lift masques are a powerful tool during facial surgery recovery. The CO2Lift masque improves oxygen delivery and microcirculation in the skin, which helps reduce inflammation, swelling, and bruising after facial surgery. It also supports faster healing by enhancing hydration and creating an optimal environment for tissue recovery.
Benefits of CO2Lift masques during recovery include:
- Improved hydration
- Reduced inflammation
- Enhanced skin barrier repair
- Support for incision healing
Many patients notice calmer, healthier-appearing skin when CO2Lift masques are incorporated into the postoperative period, especially after deep plane facelift surgery.
led light therapy
LED light therapy is another effective, noninvasive option for supporting healing after facial surgery.
Red and yellow LED wavelengths are commonly used postoperatively to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Improve circulation
- Support collagen production
- Promote tissue repair
LED light therapy is gentle, comfortable, and safe for postoperative patients when used appropriately. It can be particularly helpful in the early healing phase when swelling and redness are most noticeable.
hyperbariC oxygen therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, increasing oxygen delivery to healing tissues.
For select facial surgery patients, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may:
- Reduce swelling and bruising
- Support incision healing
- Improve overall recovery speed
- Enhance tissue oxygenation
While not necessary for every patient, HBOT can be a valuable adjunct for those seeking advanced recovery support after facial plastic surgery.
nutrition and movement matter more than you think
POSTOPERATIVE NUTRITION
Your body requires fuel to heal properly. After facial surgery, Dr. Johnson encourages patients to focus on:
- High-quality protein for tissue repair
- Healthy fats to support inflammation control
- Minimal processed foods and excess sugar
Proper nutrition supports immune function and collagen remodeling during recovery.
GENTLE MOVEMENT AND LYMPHATIC FLOW
Remaining completely inactive can slow healing. Gentle movement, such as light walking, helps encourage lymphatic drainage and circulation, which can reduce prolonged swelling.
For patients with stubborn residual swelling, lymphatic massage may be recommended to support normal lymphatic function as healing progresses.
A THOUGHTFUL RECOVERY PLAN MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Every patient heals differently, which is why recovery plans at 817 Surgical Arts are individualized. Dr. Johnson provides detailed postoperative guidance and remains closely involved throughout the healing process.
By combining surgical expertise with evidence-based recovery strategies, patients can feel supported at every stage of their facial surgery journey.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON HEALING AFTER FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY
Optimizing recovery after facial surgery is about supporting your body, not rushing it. With the right tools, guidance, and care, healing can be smoother, more comfortable, and more efficient.
If you are considering facial surgery or preparing for an upcoming procedure, Dr. Emily Johnson and the team at 817 Surgical Arts are committed to helping you heal confidently and beautifully.
If you’re interested in facial rejuvenation, you might be a good candidate for surgical options. To learn more or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson, call /text 817 Surgical Arts at 817-290-9900 or book online today.
