What To Expect During an Awake Lift™ or Mini Face Lift Recovery

September 15, 2024 – Fredric M. Barr

What To Expect During an Awake Lift™ or Mini Face Lift Recovery

An Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift can be an exciting alternative to traditional facelift surgery. This minimally invasive facelift enhances the appearance of the face and neck with a faster recovery period. To achieve your goals of correcting sagging skin, also addressing the SMAS, for a longer lasting procedure, an Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift can help you achieve your goals without the hassles associated with general anesthesia.

Patients considering this procedure often ask, “What can I expect during an Awake Lift™ or Mini Face Lift recovery?”

This blog, from renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S. of Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, explains what to expect before, during, and after an Awake Lift™ or Mini Face Lift. Continue reading to learn more, then contact us to schedule an appointment with our patient counselor at (561) 833-4122(561) 833-4122.

Benefits of the Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift

Before we delve into the expectations of an Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift recovery, let’s explore some of the benefits of this procedure.

Outpatient Cosmetic Surgery

The Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift eliminates a hospital stay. In contrast to traditional facelifts, this outpatient cosmetic surgery enables patients to go home that day. Thanks to the use of a local anesthetic in the form of a numbing injection, and a pill to relax, this procedure is performed safely and comfortably with faster healing.

Less Invasive

The Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift results in minimal swelling and bruising.

How Long Will This Procedure Last Compared to a Full Face Lift?

Long lasting results depend on genetics, sun exposure, health, weight fluctuations. Dr. Barr’s Mini Awake/Face Lift lasts equally as long as his full traditional Face Lift without the potential side effects from general anesthesia.

Before the Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift

Once he determines that an Awake Lift™ or Mini Face Lift is suitable for you, Dr. Barr may ask you to change a few behaviors to facilitate the procedure. For example, if you take blood thinners, he will recommend stopping at least two weeks before the surgery. Refraining from alcohol, including vitamins and aspirin products, in the days leading up to the procedure is also highly recommended.

During the Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift

With the Awake Lift™/ Mini Face Lift patients can enjoy a pain-free procedure because Dr. Barr first administers injections which provide full numbing. Oftentimes, patients are so relaxed that they fall asleep while listening to music of their choice. An oral medication is administered for complete relaxation.

After the Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift

Patients are able to shower, drive, and continue with most normal activities the day after the procedure. Sun exposure, underwater swimming, and exercise should be avoided for two weeks post-surgery. Discuss with Dr. Barr or our patient counselors your immediate return to your job and daily lifestyle. You will have stitches, well hidden, for approximately 10 days. Drains and wraps are not used for this procedure.

Managing Pain and Discomfort After Your Facial Procedure

While an Awake Lift™/ Mini Face Lift recovery is generally smooth and quick, you can expect some degree of pain and discomfort in the initial days following your surgery. Dr. Barr will provide prescription pain medication should you need it. However, most of our patients do well with Extra Strength Tylenol and cold compresses.

Applying cold compresses to the treatment areas can help reduce swelling and alleviate any bruising or tenderness. Be sure to follow all post-operative care instructions to promote healing. With proper rest, medication management, and gentle skin care, most Awake Lift™ / Mini Face Lift patients move through the initial recovery phase with minimal disruption to their daily lives.

Caring for Your Skin and Incisions During Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift Recovery

Proper skin and incision care during the Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift recovery period is essential. Your team at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery will give you detailed instructions on how to clean the treatment areas and protect the healing incisions, which may involve using specialized cleansers, applying ointments, and gently washing the face.

Avoiding any activities that could disrupt the incisions, such as exercise or sleeping on your side, is crucial for minimizing the appearance of scars and facilitating your recovery. However, as the best face plastic surgeon in Florida will tell you, patience is key — with patience and attentive self-care, you can look forward to revealing your refreshed, revitalized facial appearance once you complete your recovery process.

Navigating the Emotional Ups and Downs of Facial Rejuvenation

Undergoing an Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift can feel empowering, but it’s normal to experience a range of emotions during the recovery period. While you allow yourself time to heal and adjust, lean on your support system to help you through any emotional highs and lows. With compassion and an open mindset, you can navigate this transformative journey and celebrate your natural, refreshed appearance.

Ready to Discover If an Awake Lift™/Mini Face Lift is Right for You?

If you’ve been searching online for the “best plastic surgeons in Florida,” Dr. Barr and the team at Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery are ready to help. With over 33 years of experience and a commitment to patient safety, Dr. Barr’s ability to listen to a patient’s questions and expectations guide him in delivering the patient’s desired results.

Take the first step today. Contact us at (561) 833-4122(561) 833-4122 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation with our patient counselor.

Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery ~ Where Artistry, Experience, & Professionalism Create Naturally Beautiful Outcomes

Copyright © 2024. Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery. All Rights Reserved.

This blog provides general information and discusses health, cosmetic procedures, and Breast Implant Illness. The information and other content provided in this blog, or any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. Each individual has a unique physiology, along with their own characteristics, concerns, and desires. A blog cannot sufficiently address them.

If you or any other person has a cosmetic or medical concern, consult a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery
1411 N Flagler Dr #5800
West Palm Beach, FL 33410
(561) 833-4122(561) 833-4122
https://www.palmbeachplasticsurgery.com/

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