While bruising after facial surgery is perfectly normal, it can be visually alarming. Bruises occur when there is injury to the blood vessels in the area. Surgeries such as facelifts, neck lifts, blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty and brow lifts all come with swelling and bruising to some degree. Some people are more prone to bruising and some procedures come with more bruising than others.
How long does bruising last?
Most bruises will fade within one to two weeks after surgery. As the body heals, bruises may travel along a color spectrum, changing from dark blue or purple to green, and then to yellow. It may be disconcerting when bruises appear in prominent areas of the face, such as the eye region. Your surgeon can make some excellent suggestions about how to minimize the appearance of bruising. Below you will find several important tips.
Stay clear of anticoagulants
Attempts to minimize postoperative bruising should start before surgery is performed. Taking blood thinners like aspirin and ibuprofen (also sold as Motrin and Advil) can worsen bruising. You should think about discontinuing these medications at least two weeks prior to your procedure. Certain seemingly harmless supplements such as St. John’s Wort, Omega-3’s, Vitamin E, green tea, ginger, ginkgo, garlic and ginseng supplements as well as fish oil may also act as blood thinners, so be sure to tell your doctor about every current medication you are taking, even vitamins.
Abstain from alcohol
Alcohol enlarges the blood vessels and is referred to as a “vasodilator.” It may even become a “vasoconstrictor”, driving up your blood pressure. Even when consumed in small amounts, alcohol can increase the risk of bruising. Avoid alcoholic drinks for 7 days before surgery and for 14 days after surgery in order to minimize bruising risks.
Use a cold compress
Ice can be applied during the first 24-48 hours after surgery. This will help diminish bruising. The ice should be wrapped in a towel so it won’t damage the skin. Dr. Weber recommends applying cold compresses as often as possible during the first three days of your recovery. Ice can be applied for ten minutes followed by a ten minute “rest period” for your skin.
Take advantage of compression garments
If your surgeon has fitted you with a compression bandage, make sure that you keep it in place until instructed otherwise. Compression garments help to reduce swelling and bruising while improving circulation in other areas of the body.
Keep the treatment area elevated
Try to keep the treated regions of the body higher than your heart. For instance, if you’ve had facial surgery, sleep with two to three extra pillows to elevate the head. This will help to minimize postoperative bruising.
Postpone your workouts
It is acceptable to take gentle walks after surgery, as this can help promote healthy circulation and enhance your healing. However, strenuous exercise is strictly off the table. Avoid elevating your heart rate for the first week after your procedure. Heavy lifting, aerobics and even bending can exacerbate bruising. Wait until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead before resuming your workout schedule.
Follow a healthy diet and stay hydrated
Eating dark leafy greens can have a positive effect on bruising. Drinking enough water is also vital to the recovery process. Try to stay away from coffee, which can both raise your heart rate and blood pressure as well as dehydrate you.
Support your recovery with the right supplements
Supplements such as Arnica, Bromelain, and Vitamin C can be helpful after surgery in terms of minimizing bruising. You can even start taking Arnica before your surgery to help the body prepare. Make sure that your doctor approves any supplements you choose.
Bruising is temporary – Your results are lasting
While some bruising is inevitable after facial surgery, there are concrete steps you can take to limit discoloration. Many patients choose to use makeup to cover their bruises, which allows them to interact socially before discoloration has completely faded. During your private consultation with Dr. Stephen Weber, be sure to discuss your concerns about bruising. Bruises may look unsightly, but once they disappear, you will be left with beautiful, transformative results and enhanced self-confidence.