Face Lift Recovery

A face lift can produce excellent results; however, the recovery and healing time should be taken into consideration before undergoing this cosmetic procedure. Read the information below to learn more about face lift recovery.

What to Expect after Face Lift Surgery

Face lift is a serious surgical procedure that can help patients look younger by removing facial wrinkles and tightening loose facial skin and muscles. During the face lift procedure, excess skin and fat are trimmed away through incisions that separate the skin from the underlying tissue.

After surgery, the head and face will be loosely bandaged to help reduce swelling and bruising. A drainage tube may be inserted behind the patient’s ear to prevent blood and fluid from collecting under the skin. Pain medication is usually used to make the patient feel as comfortable as possible following surgery.

During the face lift recovery, patients should allow for adequate healing time and expect some postoperative swelling, numbness, and skin discoloration for about two weeks. All incisions and dressings should be kept dry until the surgeon indicates that showering or bathing is okay. For the first few days, the head should be kept elevated and immobile in order to minimize swelling. Most stitches will be removed in about five days, and the initial face lift results will be apparent soon afterward.

Face Lift Healing Time

The face lift healing time and recovery period can last anywhere from one week to several weeks, depending on the type of face lift surgery undergone. Most patients can return to work from a standard face lift in 10 days to two weeks, and patients who choose a mid face lift can expect about the same amount of recovery time. Patients who undergo an endoscopic face lift can return to work in as little as a day or two, and thread face lift and mini face lift patients can expect about the same “weekend” recovery time.

Some things, such as blow-drying your hair and wearing earrings, may be prohibited for a longer period of time. For the first few days or weeks, depending on your procedure, only walking and mild stretching are appropriate physical activities. Vigorous exercise, heavy housework, and sexual activity should be avoided for at least the initial two weeks after surgery. Alcohol, saunas, and steam rooms should be avoided for several months. During the face lift recovery period, extra rest is very important to promote proper healing.

Visit the DocShop gallery to view face lift before and after photos.

Photo credit: James P. Wire, MD

Consult a Plastic Surgeon in Your Area

For more information about face lift recovery, healing time, and ultimate results, find a cosmetic surgeon in your area today. DocShop can provide you with a list of doctors near you.