Keep your head elevated at all times, especially when sleeping. Use pillows to prop up your head and avoid lying flat on your back. This will help to reduce swelling and prevent pressure on the treated area. Wear the chin strap provided the majority of the time. You take it off to wash it or take a little break from wearing it if needed.

Avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting, exercising, and bending over, for at least 2-3 weeks after your surgery. Your healthcare provider will provide specific guidelines for resuming normal activities. Excessive physical activity can increase blood flow and raise blood pressure, which can cause swelling, bleeding, and bruising at the incision site.

Apply ice packs to the treated area to reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply the ice packs for 10 minutes at a time, and then remove them for 10 minutes. Repeat this process several times a day as needed. Do not apply the ice packs directly to the skin, as this can cause damage. Wrap the ice packs in a thin towel or cloth before applying.

Keep the incisions clean and dry, and avoid touching or rubbing the treated area. Your healthcare provider will provide instructions for cleansing the incisions. Dirt, bacteria, and other pathogens can enter the incision site and cause infection, which can delay healing and cause permanent scarring.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort following the procedure. Take the medication as directed and do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking it. If you experience any side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, or drowsiness, stop taking the medication and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Wear a compression garment as directed by your healthcare provider to help reduce swelling and promote healing.

Avoid exposing the treated area to direct heat, such as saunas, hot tubs, and long hot showers, as this can irritate the skin and delay healing. Direct heat exposure can also cause the skin to become dry and itchy, which can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of infection.

Follow a healthy diet to promote healing and support your body during recovery. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet will provide your body with the nutrients it needs to heal and regenerate new tissue.

Smoking can slow down the healing process, increase the risk of complications, and affect the final result of your skin graft. Avoid second hand smoke as well. If you smoke, quit at least two weeks before and two weeks after the procedure.

Schedule follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider as directed to monitor your healing and address any concerns or questions you may have. Your healthcare provider will also remove any stitches or staples and assess the incision site for any signs of infection or other complications.

Your skin will be extra sensitive following surgery. Avoid sun exposure as much as possible for at least 4–6 weeks, and wear a wide-brimmed hat or use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when outdoors. Sun exposure can cause pigmentation changes and negatively impact your scar healing.

Try to limit excessive facial expressions like laughing, smiling widely, or yawning during the first couple of weeks. These movements can put tension on your healing incisions and may affect your final results. Speak gently and avoid chewing tough or sticky foods that require wide mouth movement.