What to Expect During Facelift Recovery 

Facelifts are among the safest and most effective cosmetic surgeries in the US, with over 130,000 patients hiring a cosmetic surgeon to handle the procedure annually. It’s one of the best ways to look younger, but it’s best to know what you’re getting into before scheduling your plastic surgery appointment. A facelift is an invasive treatment option, and preparing ahead of time is the best approach.

Your plastic surgeon will brief you about what to expect from a facelift recovery, but doing your research will help you inform family members and loved ones who will help you after the surgery ends. Fortunately, you’ve uncovered the perfect guide to learn more about what to expect after your cosmetic surgery and how to speed up the healing process.

Continue reading to prepare for your new look today!

Stage One

The first stage of a facelift recovery starts with waking up after the plastic surgery concludes. You’ll find you have a large wrap around your head to help manage the swelling. Bruising is common; the doctor may use drains to minimize fluid around your face.

Feeling groggy and tired after waking up from your facelift surgery is normal. The first couple of days after the operation will likely require pain medications to manage your pain as you recover. The surgeon will want you to follow up on Day Two after your procedure.

The staff at the clinic will also use this time to change your bandages and clean the incisions. It’s best to take things easy during the first week after your procedure. You’ll feel good enough to move around the house a few days after surgery, but pushing yourself too hard could result in complications during the healing process.

The bruising and swelling will peak after three or four days. Try to sleep using two pillows to protect your face and incisions after the operation. It’s best to keep your head elevated after your cosmetic surgery.

Most patients no longer need the pain medication after three or four days. At this point in Stage One, the goal is to begin moving around the house and stimulating blood flow in your body. If you develop more swelling or a fever, contact your surgeon’s office for assistance.

Stage Two

Stage Two occurs a week after your facelift operation. Swelling and bruising are still common at this stage of facelift recovery. Other patients report experiencing tingling and numbness after their cosmetic surgery experience. They’re common sensations to expect when your face begins healing after plastic surgery, and you shouldn’t be concerned.

Expect the swelling and bruising to begin fading as you move further into Stage Two of the healing process. Most patients start feeling like themselves after the second week of recovery. You’ll likely feel ready to return to work and take on your hobbies and routine again.

It’s tempting, but avoid tackling heavy workloads and physical exertion. Your body isn’t ready to tackle those tasks, and you risk your facelift recovery and results.

Stage Three

Stage Three begins with your third week after getting cosmetic surgery to look younger. The plastic surgeon will remove the sutures in your skin and allow your face to take its new shape. The time you need to wait for suture removal depends on the type and extent of your facelift operation.

Expect the incisions to look puckered when the sutures are still in place. After removing your sutures, the skin on your face will smooth out and look natural. You’ll love how much younger you look after your cosmetic surgery, and it’s the first glimpse of your new appearance.

Residual swelling is expected during your third week of recovery. You’ll begin seeing genuine improvement in your skin and facial appearance by this stage of recovery. Most patients love the progress they see from the plastic surgery experience.

You’ll begin feeling much better by the end of week three post-op, but it’s vital to avoid strenuous activity for a bit longer. Avoid doing anything that requires intense exercise or that risks an injury.

Most patients notice the incisions are slightly pink during Stage Three of recovery. The pinkness will dissipate as you move further into the facelift recovery. Avoid direct sunlight to help the healing process and enjoy the younger look you crave.

Sunscreen and shade will become your best friends for the final weeks of your facelift recovery. Don’t risk the results you’ve patiently waited on by spending excessive time outside.

Stage Four

Stage Four begins after thirty days have passed since your plastic surgery procedure. Most people will have difficulty determining that you’ve had a facelift surgery by this stage of your recovery. The incisions will fade and blend in with your natural complexion.

It’s also time for you to resume your normal activities. You no longer face the risk of damaging the work that your plastic surgeon completed during the procedure. Expect the minor swelling to come and go as you continue your recovery.

Most patients deal with minor swelling for up to 12 months before enjoying their younger look. The numbness and tingling you experienced post-op will also disappear over the coming months. Around this time, you’ll see the actual results of your facelift for the first time.

To enjoy the best outcomes with your cosmetic surgery, research and follow your plastic surgeon’s advice for healing. Your recovery will be much more straightforward, and you’re more likely to get the results you crave.

Plan for Your Facelift Recovery Today

Facelift recovery takes patience, and it’s much more straightforward when you know what to expect during each stage of the healing process. The entire process can take up to 12 months, and you should expect swelling, tingling, and numbness after your plastic surgery. Avoid strenuous activity and direct sunlight to help your incisions heal and your face look younger.

Maintaining beauty takes time and patience, and it’s best to know what to expect if you want plastic surgery. Check out more of our Fashion and Beauty articles for engaging guides and beneficial tips to perfect your look!