Undergoing facelift surgery is a serious commitment.
As with any operation, it can carry risks, but generally those risks are mitigated by thorough research beforehand.
Even after surgery has been performed, the recovery process presents its own challenges, which is why proper care and attention should be paid in order for the healing process to conclude successfully.
The best thing to remember, first of all, is to be patient.
It is easier said than done, but you can help yourself by finding out what to expect by proper research.
When you wake up from the recovery room you will likely feel cold and nauseous.
This is perfectly normal, although if it bothers you, there is no reason not to ask for an extra blanket.
You may also feel a bit emotional, which is a side effect of the anaesthetic and the fact that you have just woken up.
Again, this is normal.
Initially, your face will feel very tight and sensitive, and your doctor will likely apply dressings to minimise the swelling.
This dressing will remain in place for a day before a longer-term elastic wrapping is used to support the face.
During the first few days, you will feel some mild discomfort, for which your doctor will prescribe painkillers to ease the pain.
You should also be able to start moving about and after about two days you will able to wash your hair.
Although bruising and swelling will at first seem shocking, this is a natural part of the healing process when having facelift surgery- after all, the skin tissue and muscles have sustained major trauma, and this your body's coping mechanism.
Over the next couple of days, however, the swelling will start to go down.
In terms of returning to work, you should be able to resume your normal duties within 14 days, although you may wish to apply makeup as there may still be some bruising.
If you are having the surgery to tie in with a special occasion, expect to be 'back to normal' within about 1 to 4 months.
One of the key things to remember to help speed up your recovery is to remain active.
By walking round and moving, you will promote blood circulation and inhibit the formation of blood clots in your legs.
However, strenuous movements such as bending over or lifting heavy objects should not be attempted until your surgeon allows.
Similarly, you should try to stay clear of steam and/or humidity since they encourage the face to become flushed, and can counteract the healing process.
You should also avoid taking aspirin and alcohol.