Although in most cases the patients do not require hospitalization, ideally they do have an experienced nurse to monitor them closely. Patients are instructed to rest with the head elevated for the first several postoperative days. Blood pressure is monitored and kept under strict control for the first 24 hours. The drains are usually removed on the first postoperative morning and showering and shampooing are encouraged at that point. Pain medication is usually required, especially at night, for several days. Oral antibiotics are generally prescribed, although there is no evidence that they are beneficial. Studies show that steroids are of no benefit in reducing swelling. Sutures are removed progressively beginning on the fourth postoperative day. All the sutures are usually gone by the eighth postoperative day.

Swelling and bruising are variable. Depending on the ancillary procedures performed, patients look reasonably acceptable after 1 week, good with makeup after 2 weeks, and able to attend social functions after 3 weeks. An occasional patient will have prolonged bruising that may limit activity for a longer period of time.