Your eyes can speak volumes without you saying a word. Are your eyes telling the world that you’re angry, even when you’re perfectly content? Do they suggest you’re far older than you are? If you can relate to either one of these situations, you may be a candidate for a Brow Lift in NYC at the offices of Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Edmund Kwan. Dr. Kwan understands the demands on your body for healing following the procedure. Here, Dr. Kwan and his skilled, professional team answer a common question, “What Should I Expect After Brow Lift Surgery?” and discusses ways to minimize risks and maximize healthy healing so you can get to showing off your youthful, vibrant results!
Your surgery is over. Now what?
It’s important to resist the temptation to be sedentary after your brow lift. That’s not to say you should over-do it! Walk around your home a bit the day of surgery just to get the blood flowing and to promote healthy healing.
You may also be wondering what’s “normal” following surgery. On a very positive note, you’ll see visible improvement in the appearance of your forehead, brow, and eye region immediately after your lift. It’s not unusual to feel slight discomfort and a sensation of tightness across your forehead. Some swelling and bruising is a common side effect, as is numbness and itching. Changes in sensation and itchy skin are good signs your incisions are healing. With continued progress toward a full recovery, these effects will subside before you know it.
Dr. Kwan provides detailed instructions on post-surgical care. As you explore this option for cosmetic enhancement, it’s important to know there are many ways to ensure healing goes smoothly. A few of the “do’s” and “don’ts” include:
- Do keep your head elevated
- Do use a cold compress
- Don’t use ice or heat directly on the treatment site
- Don’t subject incisions to excessive force, motion, or abrasion
- Do apply medications, topically or by mouth, as directed for comfort
Tape or wraps help to keep bruises and swelling at bay. A thin tube may drain excess fluids under the skin. Bandages and sutures are usually removed in about 1 to 3 days, and 7 to 10 days post-surgery respectively. Depending on the nature of your job, you may return to work after a week. It’s common to feel more tired than usual, so take it easy and consider a limited work schedule at first. If your appearance is a concern as you head back to work or return to the day-to-day, Dr. Kwan may recommend camouflage makeup products. Exercise and more strenuous physical activity should be incorporated gradually. For many patients, this part of their recovery starts around two to four weeks. Dr. Kwan explains exactly what activities would be “allowed” as healing progresses, and when in doubt, it’s best to wait and check with him.
Every patient heals a little bit differently. Recovery can take longer, too, if you undergo complementary procedures with your brow lift. You’ll find your healing and beautiful results continue to improve for several weeks, especially as swelling goes down and as incision lines fade. Following Dr. Kwan’s directions are essential for successful outcomes and to avoid complications.
Lift your brows; lift your confidence!
As with any procedure, there are no guarantees. But by turning to a Board-certified plastic and restorative surgeon, skilled and experienced with eyebrow lifts and related procedures, you are in a great position to enjoy natural and attractive results for years to come.
Also, a healthy lifestyle looks great on everyone and goes a long way to maintain your rejuvenated look. Think of all the factors that contributed to your wanting a brow lift in the first place. Exposure to UV light from the sun’s rays and tanning beds, and tobacco use can hasten the aging process, degrading the collagen and elastin fibers that give skin its firmness and elasticity. For eyes that sparkle, use appropriate sun protection; enjoy a nutritious, vitamin-rich diet, don’t smoke, and find a surgical specialist you can trust. Call Edmund Kwan, MD to schedule a consultation at the Manhattan, Flushing, or New Jersey office.