Returning to Work after Facial Plastic Surgery By Nimit D on February 14, 2017

One of the most popular questions patients ask Dr. Peter Brownrigg is “How soon can I return to work after my surgery?” The recovery timeline from any facial plastic surgery depends on a wide range of different factors, so it will vary from patient to patient. The type and extent of surgery performed, as well as a patient’s own health, can dictate when he or she can go back to work. Dr. Brownrigg can give you a better idea of when you can return to work after facial plastic surgery after he meets with you for a consultation at our Ottawa, ON office.

Recovery Timeline for Returning to Work after Facial Plastic Surgery

Recovery times will vary depending on the type of surgery you have and whether it was combined with another procedure. With any procedure, you will experience some post-surgical swelling and bruising for several days. You may also need to take pain medication to minimize your discomfort. As a general rule, you cannot drive, and thus should not return to work, while you are taking pain medication.

Even after you have stopped taking pain medication, you may still have some persistent bruising or swelling. Returning to work then becomes more a matter of how concerned you are about your appearance. If you have the option to work from home for a few days, you could begin working sooner than if you work in an office or another public setting.

Facial Plastic Surgery Procedures

Dr. Brownrigg offers a wide range of facial procedures, and each can have a slightly different recovery time. Below are the procedures Dr. Brownrigg offers and when you can expect to return to work following your operation.

• Facelift: A facelift is a more extensive procedure, so it may take longer to heal. Dr. Brownrigg uses advanced techniques to keep your recovery time to a minimum. Unless you combine your facelift with another procedure, you can expect to return to work within 10 days.
• Rhinoplasty: If you undergo rhinoplasty, or nasal surgery, to create better facial balance or correct a deviated septum, you may return to work in as little as a week. Dr. Brownrigg’s surgical techniques help keep swelling and bruising to a minimum, so you can feel confident about your appearance when you go back to work.
• Brow Lift: Dr. Brownrigg performs endoscopic brow lift for patients, which results in smaller incisions and a reduced recovery time overall. After just a week off, most patients can return to work.
• Eyelid Surgery: Your eyes will need adequate time to rest following eyelid surgery. For this reason, patients may need up to 10 days or more to fully recover before returning to work.

Get a More Accurate Timeline

If you want a more accurate recovery timeline estimate for your surgery, contact our office to meet with Dr. Brownrigg. After evaluating your medical history and cosmetic needs, he can give you a better idea of how much time you will need away from work.

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