After facial plastic surgery, it’s important to look after your skin to help it heal well. Dr. Andres Bustillo, an experienced facial plastic surgeon, offers key advice on how to care for your skin after surgery. He stresses the importance of knowing how your skin heals, selecting the best skincare products, and taking steps to maintain the success of your surgery.
Healing with Care After Facial Surgery
- Gentle skincare is essential after facial plastic surgery to aid in healing and minimize scarring.
- Using hypoallergenic products can prevent irritation and allergic reactions during the recovery phase.
- Avoiding makeup immediately after surgery is crucial; consult your surgeon on when it’s safe to resume.
- Sun protection is vital after facial surgery to protect sensitive skin and maintain the results of the procedure.
- Following your surgeon’s specific aftercare instructions can enhance the healing process and outcomes of your facial surgery.
After a Plastic Surgery
Recovering from facial plastic surgery procedures involves knowing the healing stages, each requiring specific care for optimal outcomes.
Immediately after any procedure, managing swelling and protecting incision sites is crucial. Gentle cleansing and the use of recommended products can aid in the healing of incisions. As the procedure’s effects become more evident, adjusting activities and skincare routines can further support healing.
For a facelift procedure, it’s essential to minimize tension in incision areas to reduce visible scarring. Each aesthetic procedure, including facelifts, follows its unique healing timeline. Adhering to post-operative guidelines is key to ensuring incisions heal properly and minimizing the risk of complications.
When can I apply makeup?
Though the healing process of eyelid surgery may take a few weeks, you may return to your routine before then. Most people resume work a week following the procedure. There may still be some mild bruising, and patients tend to feel self-conscious of these telltale signs of surgery. Dr. Bustillo thinks applying cosmetics to your skin is safe two weeks after surgery. You should seek a non-comedogenic formulation for your concealer and foundation and avoid heavy makeup.
Apply Facial Skin Moisturizers
Typically, the packaging will reflect this feature of the product. Non-comedogenic or non-occlusive products will not block pores and often contain little or no oils, which may irritate delicate tissues. Facial skin moisturizers also come in this formulation. Mineral makeup now comes in foundation, concealer, eye shadow, eyeliner, and blush. These natural products will not likely contain preservatives or other chemicals that may cause discomfort in the eye area.
Use Mineral Cosmetics
Mineral makeup products are often available in loose powder form rather than pressed, further promoting a gentle hand during application. If dark mascaras irritate, there are now clear gels that can be applied to the eyelashes to create a similar lash lengthening and thickening effect. The gels do not contain color pigments and often are void of other eye-irritant ingredients. Look for the words “hypoallergenic” or “sensitive skin” on labels.
When it comes to makeup after facelift surgery, it’s important to keep in mind the delicate nature of your skin. Mineral foundations are great for those with sensitive skin types because they provide light coverage that won’t irritate incision lines. Additionally, opt for a non-comedogenic foundation that won’t clog pores and cause further irritation on the delicate skin. Consider using loose mineral powder instead of pressed powder, and look for hypoallergenic or sensitive skin products to ensure you’re not applying any harsh ingredients or chemicals to the area.
Maintain Things Sterile and Clean
When it comes to maintaining an environment that promotes healing, it is important to keep incision sites clean and free from bacteria over time. This means avoiding contact with the area and not using any products on the incision that may cause irritation or infection. When applying makeup, make sure you use a sterile brush or sponge and avoid touching the incision with your fingers. Maintaining everything clean is key for optimal post-operative care and recovery.
Consider Different Techniques
Instead of rubbing and tugging on the skin around incision sites from facial surgery, try using a gentle patting motion with a sponge or brush. This will help to ensure that no bacteria is introduced into the area and that you’re not putting too much pressure on the delicate skin. Additionally, try to wait at least two weeks post-surgery before applying makeup to the area to allow enough time for healing.
Be Careful When Removing Makeup
Extra caution should be taken when removing makeup from the face after facial plastic surgery. For best results, use a gentle makeup remover specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid rubbing and tugging on incision sites, as this can cause infection or irritation. Instead, use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and lightly dab away the makeup until it is all removed. Never scrub your face, and make sure not to pull on any healing skin around incision sites.
Eye makeup removal can be problematic for post-blepharoplasty patients because of the product used to free the skin of cosmetics and the force of motions during the process. Using a natural makeup remover or gentle cloth may be recommended, and special care should be taken during this routine.
Questions about your procedure?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Andres Bustillo.
Sun Protection Post-Surgery
It’s important to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher after surgery to protect your healing skin. Make sure you choose a product that suits your skin type.
Staying in the shade and wearing protective clothes can also help reduce the risk of sun damage.
Keeping your skin safe from the sun is crucial to preserving the good results of your surgery.
Embracing Your New Look with Confidence and Care
After facial plastic surgery, it is crucial to take care of your appearance with confidence and the right skincare routine. Incorporate skin care products that cater to your skin’s new needs.
Using makeup can boost your confidence and enhance the outcomes of your surgery. However, it’s essential to choose suitable products:
- Avoid heavy makeup during the healing phase, as it can be harsh on your skin.
- When removing makeup at night, opt for gentleness to prevent irritation.
- Oil cleansers are preferable over makeup wipes for removing makeup. They are less abrasive, thus helping to avoid irritation.
Consistently following these steps is essential for maintaining your surgical results and being happy with your appearance.
Talk with Dr. Bustillo
To learn more about pre- and post-operative facial plastic surgery care, as well as facelift and eyelid surgery, call board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bustillo’s Coral Gables, Florida office today at (305) 663-3380. It is during this call that you have the opportunity to schedule a consultation with one of the few facial plastic surgery specialists in the Miami area.
