If you have to undergo facial reconstructive surgery, it’s important to fully understand what’s involved in the procedure, as well as the recovery process. So be sure to ask your plastic surgeon – what does reconstructive surgery recovery entail.
Facial Reconstructive surgery
Reconstructive surgery refers to procedures that are done to correct afunctional problem affecting the face. This is usually related to a traumatic injury, disease, or birth defect. The type of reconstructive surgery required will therefore depend on the specific issues that need to be corrected.
During the procedure facial muscles may have to be repaired, and skin grafts used to restore the natural appearance of the face.
Depending on the extent of the reconstruction required, surgery can take anywhere from 1-1½ hours.
What Does Reconstructive Surgery Recovery Entail
Time-off is necessary after reconstructive surgery, because some swelling and bruising may be very visible for 2-3 weeks. The bruising usually resolves during this period, but swelling may persist for several months.
Patients generally need to take it easy after surgery and get as much rest as possible, but those that have had a major procedure may require close monitoring for the first 24-48 hours. The initial post-operative appointment takes place about one week after surgery, and another 3-4 appointments may be required. Most patients will need at least 2 weeks off from work.
The duration of the recovery period after reconstructive surgery varies, depending on the invasiveness of the procedure performed. It may range from a few weeks to several months.
Would you like to find out more about facial reconstructive surgery? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you are in the Torrance and South Bay, CA areas, Awaken Aesthetics is our featured practice.
You can reach them at www.awakenaesthetics.com, or by calling (310) 791-2233.