When Can I Sleep on My Side After Facelift Surgery?

No one looks forward to the recovery period after cosmetic surgery, but almost everyone agrees that their stunning new look was well worth the wait. What’s more — modern advancements in technologies and surgical techniques have dramatically reduced the downtime necessary after a number of popular procedures today, like facelift surgery. Still, it’s important to know what to expect after your procedure at Plastic Surgery Vegas, what activities to avoid, and how you can ensure the most successful outcome possible. In this blog, Las Vegas, NV board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Terrence
"Terry" Higgins and Dr. Andrew G. Silver answer some of the most common questions regarding facelift recovery, including how long you’ll need to adjust your sleeping position — and why.

The basics of facelift surgery

Facelift surgery is popular among both men and women as a solution for reversing certain signs of aging and restoring a fresher, younger, more desirable appearance. With a wide range of facelift techniques possible, each case can be customized to help meet the specific needs, goals, and anatomy of the patient. Even patients in their 30s and 40s can benefit from facelift surgery designed to combat some of the earliest signs of facial aging. Popular types of facelift surgery for patients in Las Vegas include:

• Full facelift
• Mini facelift
• Mid-facelift
• Lower facelift

Generally speaking, facelift surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure with the patient under general anesthesia. Depending on the type of facelift being performed, the nature of the patient’s concerns, and other factors, each procedure may involve making a number of incisions, through which Dr. Higgins or Dr. Silver can reposition and tighten the muscle layers, remove excess skin to address lines and wrinkles, and create a smoother new look.

How long is recovery after facelift surgery?

Facelift recovery details can vary based on the kind of facelift performed, the patient’s age and overall health, and many other variables. In most cases, patients feel comfortable returning to work after about 1 – 3 weeks, though some bruising and swelling may still be present. By week six, patients typically feel back to normal, but the final results of facelift surgery can take several more months to develop as the tissues continue to heal.

Do I really have to sleep on my back after facelift surgery?

Yes. After a facelift, patients should sleep on their back with their upper body and head elevated at a slight angle. Some patients even choose to sleep almost upright in a recliner. This promotes proper healing and helps to reduce postoperative swelling while also protecting your incisions from undue pressure or being inadvertently reopened during sleep.

How long do I have to sleep on my back after a facelift?

It is typically considered safe for patients to resume side- or front-sleeping about 2 — 4 weeks after facelift surgery. During your follow-up appointments, Dr. Higgins or Dr. Silver will closely evaluate and monitor your recovery progress and let you know when you can return to your preferred sleeping position.

Take up to 10 years off your look quicker than ever with facelift surgery in Las Vegas, NV

While nonsurgical treatments and procedures can certainly provide beautiful results, facelift surgery remains the gold standard for achieving a strikingly natural, more youthful appearance in the most complete way possible. To learn more about facelift surgery — including whether you may be a good candidate for a facelift — call Plastic Surgery Vegas to schedule your private consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Andrew Silver and Dr. Terry Higgins today.