Are You Ready for Your Facelift Recovery?

beautiful woman face

You’ve had your facelift, and you’re feeling the best you’ve felt in years. Congratulations! Now comes the hard part: recovery.

If you’re like many people, you might be looking forward to the end of your recovery period, but are unsure how to get through it safely and comfortably.

This article will help you understand what your recovery will look like and give some tips for making it as easy as possible. So let’s get started!

What Happens After Facelift Surgery?

After the facelift surgery, your doctor will want to see you within a few days. This is when they will give you your post-op instructions. Depending on how much work was done, you may need to wear a splint or bandage for up to two weeks.

Your doctor should have given you some pain medication to take after the surgery, but if you need more than what they prescribed, talk with your doctor about it.

Depending on the type of facelift performed, there may be some swelling for up to two weeks after surgery (or more) and bruising for about two weeks as well. Your doctor will tell you what kind of activity level is safe for you during this period; most people can return to their normal routine within three weeks.

What Should I Expect During Recovery From a Facelift?

  • Day 1: After surgery, your face may be swollen and bruised. You will likely have tape on your face and a bandage over your eyes. You may also have a sponge under your chin to help with swelling.
  • Day 3: Your bandages will come off at this time, revealing your new, more youthful facial contour. The bruising and swelling should be significantly reduced at this point, but it’s not unusual for some swelling to last up to two weeks.
  • Day 7: Your stitches will be removed at this time and you’ll be able to wash your face with water. You can also start using moisturizers on your skin to keep it hydrated as it heals.
  • Week 2: The swelling will continue to go down in the next few weeks, but it’s not unusual for some minor swelling or bruising to remain even after one month has passed.
  • Month 1 to 3: In the first few months after surgery, you’ll need to avoid wearing makeup until all of the bruising is gone from around your eyes; this could take up to three months after surgery!

How Can You Care for Yourself at Home?

When you’re recovering from a facelift, your body needs support. You can do it!

You’ve just undergone a surgical procedure, and while you may feel like you want to take care of yourself, you mustn’t overdo it. Your body needs rest and nourishment to recover.

face skin beauty

Here are some tips for taking care of yourself at home after a facelift:

  • Avoiding strenuous activities. Strenuous activity may cause bleeding and swelling, which can lead to infection.
  • Drinking plenty of water. This will help prevent dehydration, which can cause dry skin and wrinkles.
  • Eat a balanced diet with lots of protein and vitamins. Your body needs these things to heal properly, even if you don’t feel like eating much right now!
  • Keep your head elevated. Your surgeon will tell you how high to keep it but try to keep it higher than the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling and bruising.
  • Be gentle with your face at first. Avoid scrubbing or applying pressure to your face for at least a week after surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is a Facelift?

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to improve the appearance of the face. During a facelift, the surgeon tightens the underlying muscles and tissues of the face, which helps to smooth out wrinkles and folds.

What Is the Recovery Time for a Facelift?

Facelift recovery time in Birmingham, AL, varies from person to person, but it’s generally recommended that you plan for about two weeks off from work. The healing process will take about six weeks, and you should expect to feel like yourself again after about three months.

The most important thing to remember is that your plastic surgeon can help you with any questions or concerns that come up during your recovery period.

When Can I Return to Work or Other Activities After a Facelift?

It’s important to keep in mind that it’s normal to feel tired and sore after your facelift. So don’t rush back into your daily activities too quickly — instead, take it slow and steady.

In general, you should wait at least two weeks before returning to work or other activities. If you’re feeling okay, then you can slowly build back up to your routine over the course of a few weeks.

When Should I See My Healthcare Provider if I’ve Had a Facelift?

If you’ve just had a facelift, you may not be sure when to see your healthcare provider. Facelift recovery time can take several weeks. During this time, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid strenuous activity.

Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to make an appointment:

  • Bleeding or bruising at the incision site
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of the face, neck, or lips that does not go away
  • Difficulty hearing or seeing
  • Extreme fatigue and weakness