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NasoLabial Fold Lift Recovery

Nasolabial fold lift surgery is recommended when injectable fillers, laser skin resurfacing, and other minimally-invasive procedures will not provide a desired long-term result.  Surgical excision is an extremely effective way to reduce the appearance of deep “parentheses” that bother so many people.

Whether you call them “smile lines,” or “laugh lines” these creases can deepen with age, producing obvious shadows. Surgical correction offers a permanent solution, but it’s important to consider the potential risks and recovery process before committing to any cosmetic procedure.  

The decision to have nasolabial fold surgery in NYC comes with a lot of responsibility. It is an outpatient surgery that is well-tolerated, but it also requires some downtime. Dr. Thomas Loeb explains what to expect and how to prepare for a nasolabial fold lift recovery.

Nasolabial fold lift recovery in NYC

If you’re looking for a lunch-time procedure with minimal recovery, nasolabial fold surgery is not it. Any surgery that revises facial tissue can take several weeks to fully heal. While the surgery itself is straightforward, patients should anticipate some residual swelling and bruising. The procedure is performed in our surgical suite under local anesthesia. Unlike general anesthesia which carries the risk of an allergic reaction, local anesthesia is much safer and doesn’t make you groggy or nauseated afterward.

It’s advisable to take at least 10 full days off of work for the surgery. The recovery time for nasolabial fold surgery varies and may last for a week or two. Most patients will experience some moderate tenderness, bruising, and swelling in the area for the first week. Stock up on some good books or plan on binge-watching your favorite shows during the recovery process. It may be three or even four weeks before all swelling is gone.

You can camouflage bruises with makeup, but inflammation may be harder to conceal. Our best advice: don’t rush to get back to your normal routine. Take the time to rest, eat healthfully, and focus your energies on healing.

Nasolabial fold lift recovery tips

Mild bruising, swelling, and tenderness can be expected in the first few days after your surgery. Follow all post-operative instructions and alert our office if you have any concerns or questions. The incision lines may be slightly itchy, but resist the urge to scratch. You may be provided with an antibiotic cream or other salve to help expedite the healing process.

Recovery tips for a nasolabial fold lift:

  • Plan ahead: take 10 days off for your recovery
  • Make arrangements for child care and household help as needed
  • Prepare and freeze some healthy meals before your surgery
  • Stay hydrated
  • Avoid sleeping on your face, prop yourself up with 2 pillows
  • Take arnica as instructed to reduce bruising
  • Take pain medications and antibiotics as prescribed
  • Try to refrain from alcohol and tobacco as both weaken the immune system
  • Do not wash your face or incision lines for at least 24 hours
  • Practice good wound care as advised
  • When in doubt, ask your doctor or staff before heading home

Serious complications are rare, but they can happen. Call our office if you experience bleeding along the incision lines, fever, signs of infection, or unusually severe pain.

How to minimize scars

In a nasolabial fold lift surgery, the incisions are carefully placed to minimize the appearance of scars. After the incisions have healed shut, you can take some additional steps to ensure an aesthetically-pleasing outcome, where scars are virtually imperceptible. 

  • Apply a silicone-based cream or gel over the incisions
  • Use SPF 50 mineral sunblock to prevent scar hyperpigmentation
  • Wear wide-brimmed hats when outside
  • Apply Vitamin E gel
  • Wash your face gently and avoid excessive tension or pulling on the scars

Questions about nasolabial lift surgery recovery in NY?

For more information about nasolabial lift surgery with Dr. Thomas W. Loeb, we invite you to contact our Fifth Avenue office to set up a private consultation. You can also send an email, or reach out using our online contact form.

Schedule Your Consultation

    Latest Aesthetic News

    PLASTIC SURGERY VISUALIZER

    Manhattan

    994 Fifth Avenue
    New York, NY 10028
    212-327-3700
    Click for directions

    Great Neck

    1000 Northern Blvd, Suite 340
    Great Neck, NY 11021
    516-487-3134
    Click for directions

    Schedule Your Consultation

      Latest Aesthetic News

      PLASTIC SURGERY VISUALIZER

      Manhattan

      994 Fifth Avenue
      New York, NY 10028
      212-327-3700
      Click for directions

      Great Neck

      1000 Northern Blvd, Suite 340
      Great Neck, NY 11021
      516-487-3134
      Click for directions