Traditional Face Lift: Step-By-Step

Healing Begins With the Application of Dressings

The first image shows a patient 1 week post-op, before removal of staples and sutures. Second image shows an ideal healing result, 2 weeks post-op.

© Dr. Steven Denenberg

The patient's face will be wrapped in sterile surgical gauze, completely covering the incision sites. These bandages will remain in place for at least 1-2 days. In some cases, a drainage tube may have been inserted during surgery as well. In these instances, the drains will usually be removed along with the bandages, 1-2 days following the surgery. Sutures are generally removed after one week, and healing of the incisions is usually visibly complete in 2-3 weeks.

• Anesthesia Is Administered
• Surgeon Makes Incisions
• Muscle and Connective Tissue Are Repositioned and Tightened
• Excess Skin Is Trimmed Away
• Incisions Are Closed
• Healing Begins With the Application of Dressings
• After Care Instructions Are Given