Facial rejuvenation patients frequently ask, “What will my recovery be like?” and the answer, of course, varies. The day-by-day facelift recovery process depends on the procedure you choose: Traceless Facelift, Deep Plane Facelift, or Mini Facelift. If you have extensive fat in your neck or require extensive skin removal and correction, recovery may potentially involve more swelling and bruising for about 10 to 14 days.
Facelift Recovery Timeline
Your facelift recovery experience will be entirely unique to you. Factors such as the technique used, the extent of the procedure, and whether it’s combined with other treatments will all play a role in your healing process. While some patients may recover quickly, others may need more time. It’s important to stay in close communication with your surgeon and give yourself plenty of time to heal.
This timeline reflects a typical recovery, but your experience may be different. If you’re planning to attend an important social or professional event after your facelift, allow a few months to heal fully. You can learn more specifics about Traceless Facelift recovery in this related blog post.
Week 1
Keeping incisions clean to prevent infection is essential during the first week.
Day 1: After surgery, you may feel unsteady and sleepy. Arrange support from family and friends to drive you home and care for you on your first night home. The first day is usually when you most need pain medication to manage your discomfort. Your face will be bandaged, and you may notice initial swelling and bruising.
Day 2: You’ll have a follow-up appointment, during which we’ll change your dressings and check your incisions. Pain medication will help manage discomfort, and keeping your head elevated is important to minimize swelling. If everything looks good, we’ll apply new dressings and review postoperative care.
Day 3: Swelling and bruising typically peak on the third or fourth day after surgery, but both will likely be present for several additional weeks. You’ll likely feel better and find yourself wanting to move around more. Continue to take medication if you experience discomfort.
Days 4-6: By this stage, most patients no longer need prescription pain medication. Swelling should begin to subside, and you’ll likely feel more at ease moving around. If you’re feeling up to it, light housework is often permitted.
Week 2
Days 7-14. You may still notice some swelling and bruising around the treated areas, which can sometimes lead to sensations of numbness, tingling, or tightness. These are all normal following a facelift. During this time, sutures are typically removed. By the end of the second week, many people start to feel like themselves again and are ready to return to work.
Weeks 3 and 4
Days 15-30: You may still experience some residual swelling and tightness, but overall, you’ll likely start looking and feeling significantly better. This is often when patients begin to notice noticeable improvements in their facial contours. By this stage, you can typically resume exercising and enjoy activities with minimal, if any, visible signs of the procedure. Incision sites may still have a pinkish-red hue, which will gradually fade over time.
What To Expect After Day 30
After the one-month postoperative mark, you can typically return to your normal activities and fully enjoy life with your refreshed look. While minor residual swelling, bruising, tightness, or numbness may persist for up to a year, these are usually subtle and noticeable only to you.
Protecting your skin during facelift recovery is essential. Avoid direct sun exposure, as it can interfere with healing and affect the appearance of scars. When you go outdoors, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunscreens labeled as water-resistant and formulated for sensitive or post-procedure skin to ensure gentle protection. Complement sunscreen use with wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses for added protection.
Additionally, support your recovery by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eating a nutrient-rich, balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and antioxidants can promote skin repair and overall healing. Staying well-hydrated helps flush out toxins and supports optimal skin elasticity, ensuring you heal smoothly and feel your best.
Common Questions About Facelift Recovery
How long after a facelift will I look normal?
Recovery after a facelift includes physical healing and the time it takes to feel comfortable in social settings. Most patients return to work or start running daily errands within a week or two of after surgery. If you’re planning to attend a wedding, class reunion, or another significant event, schedule your procedure at least six weeks to three months ahead of time.
How painful is facelift recovery?
Many patients are pleasantly surprised to discover that discomfort during facelift recovery is less than they anticipated. During the first few days, prescription or over-the-counter pain medication effectively manages pain.
Will people know I had a facelift?
We use the phrase “traceless” to describe our facelift procedures because of the natural-looking results our patients experience. You won’t look like you’ve had any “work” done. Instead, your appearance will reflect a refreshed, natural version of yourself, as if you’ve turned back the clock about ten years.
Before and After Facelift Surgery
Schedule Your Consultation
Selecting the right board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to achieving the best outcome and ensuring your safety throughout the process. We encourage you to take the time to thoroughly research your options and gather as much information as possible before proceeding with your chosen procedure. This includes reviewing credentials, reading patient testimonials, and finding a surgeon who aligns with your goals and priorities.
To learn if you’re a good candidate for our Traceless Facelift or one of our many other surgical or non-surgical treatments, please request a consultation online or call our practice at (310) 300-1779.
Originally posted in 2022 and updated in November 2024.
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