Understanding Facelift Recovery Time

A facelift surgery, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that may help address signs of ageing, including loose skin and wrinkles. Recovery experiences can vary among individuals due to various factors. In this blog, we provide general overview of the recovery timeline:

What is the downtime of a Face Lift?

Facelift procedures typically involve an overnight hospital stay for initial monitoring. Patients may experience tightness in the facial area during this period. Healthcare providers monitor comfort levels and may prescribe medication as needed.

Recovery times following a facelift can vary significantly based on individual factors such as the specific surgical technique used, the patient’s overall health, and adherence to postoperative care instructions. While some individuals may resume normal activities within a few weeks, others might require a longer period for full recovery. For personalised guidance tailored to your unique circumstances, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional.

Initial Recovery (First Week):

In the first week following a facelift, patients typically experience swelling, bruising, and a sensation of tightness in the facial area. These symptoms often peak around the third to fifth day post-operation. To aid healing, it may be advised to sleep with the head elevated and avoid strenuous activities. Adhering to the surgeon’s postoperative care instructions is crucial during this period to promote proper healing and minimise complications.

Recovery Week 2

By the second week, swelling and bruising usually begin to subside, and patients may notice a gradual improvement in facial appearance. Some residual tightness or numbness might persist, which is a normal part of the healing process. Depending on each individual’s circumstances, some may feel comfortable resuming light activities and may consider returning to work. It’s important to continue following postoperative care guidelines and get clearance from your surgeon before proceeding to any activities.

Recovery Week 3 and 4

During the third and fourth weeks, most of the visible signs of surgery, such as bruising and significant swelling, have typically resolved. Depending on their surgeon’s advice, patients may gradually reintroduce more regular activities, including mild exercise. Some minor swelling or tightness may still be present.

Beyond One Month:

After the first month, patients generally return to their normal routines, depending on their unique circumstances and surgeon’s advice. Residual swelling or tightness may continue to diminish over time. The final results of the facelift may become more apparent as the face settles into its new structures. It’s important to maintain follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. 

If you still have questions regarding the facelift procedure, recovery time, and post-operative care, you may want to reach out to our Specialist Plastic Surgeon,Dr Jack Zoumaras. He will also provide detailed instruction on the expected postoperative course of the procedure and discuss more information about the procedure, including its potential risks and complications. All patients who consider to undergo cosmetic procedures shall obtain a GP referral and BDD screening. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.