Facelift Recovery: What to Expect From The Recovery Process
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery designed to improve the visible signs of facial and neck aging. It involves lifting and tightening the skin and underlying tissues to create a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
People undergo facelift surgery for various reasons, but the primary goal is typically to improve the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. As people age, their skin loses elasticity and begins to sag, leading to wrinkles and fine lines.
After a facelift, it can take a few weeks to several months for the swelling and bruising to subside and for the full results of the procedure to be visible. Let’s take a look at the recovery process week by week.
Week One
During the first week of recovering from facelift surgery, you can expect to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the facial area. Swelling is common after facelift surgery and can be significant during the first few days. The swelling can cause your face to look distorted and can make it difficult to eat and speak.
You may experience some discomfort during the first week of recovery as well, but your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage this.
Some surgeons may use drainage tubes to help remove excess fluid and blood from the surgical site. Your doctor will advise you to avoid strenuous activities or movements that could stress your facial muscles.
During the first week, you must also attend the prearranged follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery progress.
Week Two
During the second week of recovery from facelift surgery, you can expect some improvement in the symptoms you experienced during the first week. Swelling should start to subside during this time, although you might still have some residual swelling. It will depend on the extent of your surgery and your healing process.
If you had sutures or staples, they may be removed during the second week. Your surgeon will advise you on when they will be removed and how to care for the incisions afterward. You will also continue to have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress.
You might also experience some numbness and tingling around the surgical site during the second week. This is normal and will gradually improve over time.
Weeks Three and Four
During the third and fourth weeks of facelift surgery recovery, you can expect further improvement in your symptoms as your body continues to heal. Swelling and bruising should continue to improve and your incisions will continue to heal during this time.
Your surgeon should advise you on how to care for the incisions and when to start using scar management products. You may be able to resume most normal activities during this time, although your surgeon will advise you on what activities are safe.
Numbness and tingling may improve during this time, although it can take several more weeks for the sensation to return fully.
After One Month
Swelling and bruising should be almost completely resolved by the one-month mark, although some mild swelling may still be present. Your incisions should mostly be healed, and any scabs should have fallen off. Numbness and tingling may still be present but should improve.
You may have fewer follow-up appointments with your surgeon at this point, but it is still important to attend any scheduled appointments to ensure your healing progress is on track.
Schedule A Consultation
At Patrick L. Basile Plastic Surgery & Wellness in Jacksonville Beach, FL, we use the latest techniques and cutting-edge technology to ensure quality results. If you’re interested in a facelift, having a consultation with Dr. Basile is a great first step. He can walk you through the procedure, answer any questions you have, and help you achieve your desired results.
To schedule a consultation today, call our office at (904) 701-1927 or fill out our online contact form.
