Your Facelift Recovery Explained

Facelift Recovery Explained

When planning for facelift surgery, it is important to consider the recovery period. Knowing what to expect and planning ahead of time can help make your recovery much more comfortable and successful.

Here, Dr. Donald Hause breaks down what you should expect during the first month of facelift recovery.

First Week

Immediately after surgery, you will be groggy and will need to have a loved one drive you home. You will need to rest in a comfortable position, with your head elevated at all times, for the remainder of the day. Take your post-op prescription medication as directed.

On the second or third day, you will meet with your surgeon for your first follow-up appointment. Your surgeon will remove your surgical dressings and check on your incisions and swelling. If everything looks good, he or she will re-dress the treatment area and send you back home so you can continue to rest.

Plan on taking it easy for the rest of the week. Vigorous activities, including exercise, will be off-limits. However, you are encouraged to take short walks around the house as soon as you feel ready.

Bruising and swelling usually reach their peak around the three- or four-day mark. After this time, these side effects will begin to subside although residual swelling may be present up to a year after surgery.

Second Week

Minor discomfort, including numbness, tingling, and tightness, is normal during the second week of recovery. Most patients are able to return to work and resume most normal activities after the second week of recovery. Minor bruising and swelling can be concealed with makeup, and light exercise may be resumed as long as your surgeon gives you clearance.

Third and Fourth Weeks

Sutures are usually removed by the end of the three-week mark. Most patients feel like themselves again and see noticeable improvements in their facial contours three to four weeks after a facelift. Scars will continue to heal and should be protected from the sun to avoid noticeable damage.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines. Your surgeon will provide you with more specific instructions based on your personal healing progress. To learn more about facelifts, including what to expect during recovery, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Hause. Contact Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery by calling (916) 646-6869 today.