How Soon Can You Apply Makeup After Facelift Surgery?

Today's facelift techniques offer more to patients by not only reducing the appearance of facial aging and tightening loose skin, but results are also more long-term and natural-looking. It has become a popular cosmetic procedure as both men and women struggle with the natural process of aging, and more individuals are looking for ways to look younger. If you have questions about when you can wear makeup after facelift surgery and other aftercare guidelines, read on to learn more from board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi in Beverly Hills, CA.

What causes signs of facial aging?

Before any person in Beverly Hills, CA considers an aesthetic procedure, they should know what to expect with the recovery, be in good health, and consult with a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon, like Dr. Hakimi. Facial aging occurs due to changes to the outer layer, or epidermis, and deeper soft tissues of the face. Factors that influence external changes or speed up the aging process are:

• Sun exposure
• Excessive smoking or alcohol use
• Routine skin care
• Facial movement
• Skin type, genetics, or ethnicity
• Stress

Facelift near me, and how does it work?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is cosmetic surgery to remove the signs of aging on the face and neck. The main goal is to tighten up loose, saggy skin. As we age, our facial skin loses laxity, and collagen production takes a nosedive, making both men and women look tired and less youthful. When facial injectables, like BOTOX® or dermal fillers, are no longer providing the desired outcome, a facelift procedure may be the next step to look and feel years younger. While there are different facelift techniques, including a lower facelift or full facelift, some opt for only a mini facelift. During a one-on-one consultation, Dr. Hakimi will determine what you need to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce facial sagging, and have a more youthful-looking, smoother complexion.

Facelift recovery time, and when can women wear makeup again?

Facelift recovery time generally takes about 2 – 3 weeks, and most women and men in Beverly Hills, CA can resume regular activities after about four weeks. Most patients experience some bruising, discomfort, and swelling after facelift surgery. In about 10 – 14 days, swelling and bruising will begin to dissipate. Female patients often inquire about when they can wear makeup afterward to cover up any bruising when venturing out into the public. It is generally advised to wait at least ten days, or once cleared by Dr. Hakimi, before applying makeup. Applying a lightweight sunscreen underneath your makeup will help hydrate and protect skin while preventing scarring.

Skin care after facelift surgery

It is just as important how you remove your makeup at night with how you apply it. During your facelift recovery, and once cleared to wear makeup, remove it with a cleansing balm or oil versus makeup wipes to avoid pulling at your sensitive skin. Patients should stick to their daily makeup and skin care products they were using before surgery. You don't know how your skin will react if you change up what you are using, so your facelift recovery is no time to try potentially new products or makeup. It is advised to wait until your skin is fully healed before switching up what you use on your face.

Looking for facelift options in Beverly Hills, CA?

If you live in Beverly Hills, CA and struggle with facial aging signs, like wrinkles or saggy skin, then considering a facelift procedure may be the answer you need. If you would like to learn more about facial rejuvenation options, we invite you to contact our caring team to schedule an online or in-person consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi today.