The facelift procedure has substantial benefits, primarily offering patients a way to take years off the appearance. However, it’s important to consider that a facelift also involves a lengthy recovery period. Below, we’ll explain what you can expect throughout the first month of your facelift recovery so that you are well-prepared for treatment.
Day 1
Immediately following your surgery, you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home. We also recommend that patients have this person around the house for their first day and night to provide care and support. You will begin the use of pain medication starting on day 1 to manage the discomfort that follows your surgery.
Day 2
Patients can typically expect a follow-up treatment on day 2, during which your surgeon will evaluate your condition and make sure you are ready to proceed with the recovery phase. We’ll also review your recovery guidelines.
Days 3 & 4
The third and fourth days after a facelift are when you can expect swelling and bruising to peak. Fortunately, by this point, your pain should begin decreasing and can be continuously managed with pain medications as needed. It is recommended that you continue resting during these days.
End of Week 1
Towards the end of your first week, you should begin to notice improvements in pain, swelling, bruising and other side effects. Patients often begin discontinuing use of their pain medications through the end of this week. You may even feel well enough to begin moving around. If this is the case, it is safe for you to move around the house and care for yourself as needed.
Week 2 (Days 7 through 14)
Once you’ve reached week 2 of your recovery, the worst is behind you. You can still expect some bruising, swelling and some changes in sensation around the face, but you will be able to start returning to normal activities. By the end of this week, many patients are able to perform light walking, which is highly encouraged for the remainder of your recovery. Additionally, you may feel well enough to return to work and other activities by the end of the week.
Weeks 3 & 4 (Days 15 through 30)
During this period of your recovery, you will finally begin to see the benefits of your facelift procedure. Your results will become more noticeable as any swelling and bruising fades, although you may notice that minor side effects persist for a few more weeks. With most of the signs of treatment subsided, patients are typically able to return to all normal activities (with the exception of exercise and other strenuous tasks) without any outward signs of surgery. You can also expect a follow-up visit during this period.
Beyond Day 30
After your first month, you should be mostly recovered from your facelift procedure. While you may still notice some minor swelling, bruising or tightness, they typically go unnoticed by others. This means that you will be able to return to all of your normal activities without any concern. Keep in mind that it may take several more weeks for all side effects to resolve completely, but you will certainly be able to enjoy the results of your treatment until then.
If you have any other questions about your facelift recovery, or if you’d like to schedule your consultation for this treatment, contact us today at Southeastern Aesthetic Surgery.