A facelift with Dr. Grace Graw is a deeply personalized experience, one designed to restore elegant, natural-looking results that feel entirely like you. To help you feel confident and well-prepared, the following instructions outline everything you need to know before, during, and after your procedure.
When can I wash and style my hair after a facelift?
Most patients can gently wash their hair within a few days of surgery, though Dr. Graw will provide specific guidance based on the placement of your incisions. You should avoid heat styling tools near the incision areas until fully healed.
Is it safe to color or chemically treat my hair after surgery?
Hair coloring and chemical treatments should be postponed for at least 4–6 weeks following your facelift to avoid irritating healing incision sites. Dr. Graw will confirm the appropriate timeline at your follow-up appointments.
Will I experience numbness or changes in sensation after my facelift?
Temporary numbness, tingling, or altered sensation around the face, ears, and neck is very common after a facelift and is a normal part of the nerve healing process. Sensation typically returns gradually over several weeks to months following surgery.
When can I begin wearing makeup to cover bruising?
In most cases, patients are cleared to apply makeup over healed areas within 1–2 weeks following surgery, though you should avoid applying anything directly over incision lines until they have fully closed. Dr. Graw will confirm the right timing for you at your post-operative visits.
Is hair loss or thinning around the incisions normal?
Some patients notice temporary hair thinning near incision sites, which is generally a short-term response to the trauma of surgery. Hair typically regrows within a few months, and Dr. Graw uses meticulous technique to minimize any disruption to the hairline.
How soon can I travel or fly after my facelift?
Most patients should wait at least 2–3 weeks before flying or engaging in extended travel following a facelift. Dr. Graw will assess your healing at follow-up and advise you on when travel is safe for your specific recovery.
How long does it take to see my final facelift results?
While significant improvement is visible within the first few weeks, final results typically emerge at the 3–6 month mark once all residual swelling has fully resolved. The outcome continues to refine subtly over time, revealing the natural, elegant rejuvenation Dr. Graw is known for.
What can I do to maintain my facelift results long-term?
Protecting your skin from sun exposure, following a consistent medical-grade skincare routine, staying hydrated, and maintaining a stable weight all contribute to preserving your results. Dr. Graw and the Graw Beauty team are happy to recommend a personalized skincare regimen to extend the longevity of your outcome.
