It depends...: Early surgical swelling, that peaks 48 hours after the surgery, will usually respond to heat therapy, perhaps using a warmed gel pack. Any swelling that suddenly starts to worsen after it was getting better, should be evaluated by your surgeon for possible infection.
Answered 9/28/2016
5.2k views
Time, time, time: It's easier to prevent it then to try to get it to subside. Ice packs to the outside of your face on an off every 15-20 minutes for the first 24 hours. Keep your head elevated rather that lying down flat. Once it's swollen, it's mostly a waiting game for mother nature & your body to work it's wonders. Be patient, each day should be better than the previous one. Follow your surgeon's instructions.
Answered 4/28/2013
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