This blog outlines the facelift recovery process step by step, from the first month, and includes helpful recovery tips to ensure an optimal surgical result.
Table of Contents
- Perfecting the Recovery Process
- Facelift Recovery Tips
- Interested in Facelift Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA?
Perfecting the Recovery Process
A facelift is the ultimate procedure for facial rejuvenation. It can provide both an anti-aging appearance and a more defined, youthful look. A successful facelift, performed by an experienced facial surgeon, is the ideal procedure for combating deep wrinkles and facial creases, loose and sagging skin, hanging jowls, and for facial definition.
However, a significant part of achieving the ideal facelift result depends on a successful recovery period. We will break down what you can expect from facelift recovery week by week.
Facelift Recovery Week One
Day 1 Post-op
After surgery, you will be very groggy from the anesthesia. You may feel fatigued, your face will be bandaged tightly with gauze, and one to two drains will be placed to facilitate drainage. You may be given pain medication, antibiotics, and other medications as needed. Make sure you take them as directed by your surgeon.
It is required to have a responsible driver take you home from surgery, set you up in your recovery space, and stay with you overnight. You will likely only have energy to sleep that first day. Your surgeon will see you the day after surgery to ensure you are healing properly.
Day 2 Post-op
Day two is usually the most challenging after surgery, but from here onward, things begin to improve. You will be more alert, although you will continue to feel very tired for a while. The best thing you can do at this point is to get as much rest as possible.
Your surgeon may schedule a follow-up appointment around this time to assess your incisions and swelling. Drains are usually removed within the first two to five days, depending on the amount of drainage. They will replace your dressings and answer any questions you may have.
Day 3 Post-op
It is very important that you rest as much as possible: your body has just gone through some trauma, and all of your resources are spent on healing. You will feel very tired—this is one of the most surprising aspects of plastic surgery recovery for patients—most assume that pain is the hardest part. But really, physical discomfort is easily manageable with pain medication.
Days 4–6
After day three, most patients begin to feel somewhat more like themselves, although fatigue persists. You likely will not need prescription pain medication anymore, and swelling should start to dissipate. You may feel some numbness or tingling around the incisions or in other areas of the face. This is completely normal and will improve with time.
As you gain a little more energy, try getting up and walking around the house. You will need to find the balance between plenty of rest and gently increasing activity. Increased activity means increased blood circulation, which aids healing and reduces the risk of blood clots.
Facelift Recovery Week Two
Most patients feel up to returning to light activity around week two, and some can return to work if their job is not too physically demanding. You are likely to still have some bruising, but this can be covered with makeup. Swelling should be much better, and you will begin to look and feel more like yourself.
You may have your sutures removed, depending on the specifics of your procedure. Continue to gradually increase your movement without pushing yourself too much. Your surgeon will clarify when you can return to specific activities, such as working out.
Facelift Recovery Weeks Three and Four
Patients are usually cleared to return to regular activities by the end of the third week, including light exercise. Be sure not to bend down or do any activities that strain your incisions. Putting pressure on your healing incisions can create larger scars, so be sure to care for them.
You may still have some residual swelling and tightness, but overall, you should feel much improved. You should also begin to see some of the aesthetic improvements from the procedure, although final results are still a ways away.
Facelift Recovery After One Month
By now, you should be fully back to regular activities and work. You may have residual swelling—it takes some time for it to fully subside—but not enough to be noticeable to anyone but you. Your skin may still feel slightly tight around the treatment areas, and you may still experience some numbness. Your incisions will be closed and may appear slightly pink. Be sure to protect them from the sun, as exposure can cause dark scarring.
Final results of your facelift may be apparent around the six-month mark: your jawline will be noticeably contoured, and deep creases will be reduced. Overall, your face will look more youthful, chiseled, and refreshed. However, complete healing can take up to a year, so expect your final results to continually improve.
Facelift Recovery Tips
- In the early stages, sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- For the first two weeks after surgery, you should refrain from working out and using saunas, hot tubs, alcohol, or recreational drugs.
- Do not be alarmed by your appearance at first; you may look puffy, bruised, and pale.
- Be careful with your skin and hair in the first few weeks: your skin may be numb, and you can accidentally scratch your skin without noticing.
- Avoid alcohol, steam baths, and saunas as directed by your surgeon.
- Always give yourself enough rest and do not be discouraged if you tire easily—let your body concentrate on healing.
Interested in Facelift Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA?
Dr. Harrison Lee is a world-renowned facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, known for his holistic approach and natural-looking results. You only get one face: entrust it with the best. Call Dr. Lee today at (310) 777-2627 or fill out the contact form to schedule a consultation.