Recovery from facelift surgery is usually more manageable than many people expect—but planning ahead and following your surgeon’s instructions closely makes a big difference in how well you heal and how your results develop.
Most patients experience temporary swelling, bruising, tightness, and numbness, with the most noticeable swelling and bruising typically improving over the first 10 to 14 days. Many people return to work and non-strenuous activities in about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the details of their surgery and their job.
At Youthful Reflections in Brentwood, TN, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Michael A. Boggess, MD, has performed 4,500+ facelift surgeries and plans each Reflection Lift—his signature facelift technique—around your unique facial anatomy and goals.
Facelift recovery at a glance
- Days 1–3: swelling/tightness peak; rest and gentle walking
- Days 7–14: bruising/swelling continue to settle; many feel “more presentable”
- Weeks 3–4: many feel comfortable for some social activity
- Weeks 6–8: common buffer recommended before a major event
- Months 9–12: final results continue to refine as tissues fully settle
What To Expect During Your Facelift Recovery
Most patients describe their initial discomfort as mild to moderate, especially compared to what they expected. Many of our patients use prescription pain medication only briefly (often the first night) and then transition to non-prescription options such as acetaminophen, if appropriate for them.
Common, temporary effects after a facelift (Reflection Lift) include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tightness or a “heavy” feeling
- Numbness or altered sensation
- Mild to moderate soreness
As swelling decreases, most people feel more like themselves. It’s normal for recovery to come in “waves,” with good days and more puffy/tight days along the way.
Reflection Facelift Before and After Photos
Things To Do After a Facelift
The #1 “do” is to follow your surgeon’s personalized post-op instructions exactly. These general tips can help support a smoother recovery after a facelift:
Do: Arrange help for the first 24 hours
Have a responsible adult stay with you for the first day to:
- Drive you home
- Help with meals and medications
- Assist with basic tasks so you can rest
Do: Rest with your head elevated
Elevating your head (including while sleeping) helps minimize swelling during the first several days.
Do: Take medications as directed
Use pain meds and any prescribed medications exactly as instructed. If something doesn’t feel right—or your pain is increasing instead of improving—contact your surgeon’s office immediately.
Do: Use cool packs if recommended
Cool packs can help reduce swelling and discomfort early on, but use them only as instructed (and avoid putting direct pressure on incisions).
Do: Wear your compression wrap/bandage as instructed
If you’re given a wrap, it’s usually meant to reduce swelling and bruising. Wear it exactly as directed—don’t tighten or adjust unless instructed to do so.
Do: Make recovery-friendly clothing choices
Wear clothing that buttons or zips in front so you don’t have to pull items over your head.
Do: Take short, gentle walks
Taking a few short walks around the house each day helps improve circulation and reduce stiffness. Keep it light—this isn’t “exercise” yet.
Do: Follow shower and hair-washing instructions closely
Showering and shampoo timing vary depending on your incisions and dressings. Follow your specific guidance.
Do: Follow incision/wound care instructions exactly
If you’re ever unsure whether something is “normal,” reach out. Small issues are easier to address early.
Optional: Massage only if your team recommends it
Some patients may be guided through specific massage techniques later in recovery to help with swelling and scar mobility. Don’t massage unless you’ve been instructed to do so.
More Reflection Lift Before and After Photos
Things NOT To Do After Facelift Surgery
Most facelift recovery restrictions exist to reduce swelling, prevent complications, and protect your results. Avoid the following unless your surgeon says otherwise:
Don’t: Wear makeup too soon
Avoid makeup during the first week (or until your surgeon clears you). Makeup too early can irritate incisions or introduce bacteria.
Don’t: Apply pressure around incisions
Avoid rubbing, pressing, or “checking” your incision areas repeatedly—gentle care only.
Don’t: Resume strenuous activity too early
Avoid bending, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise for approximately 2 weeks (or as instructed). Walking is typically fine; workouts usually are not.
Don’t: Smoke or use nicotine
Nicotine can impair healing and increase your complication risk. Avoid smoking/vaping and nicotine products in the weeks leading up to your procedure and during your recovery.
Don’t: Color or bleach your hair too soon
Avoid coloring or bleaching your hair for at least 4 weeks (or until cleared by a healthcare professional).
Don’t: Expose your incisions to the sun
Protect your incision areas from direct sun exposure, and use SPF 30+ once cleared to do so. Sun exposure can darken scars and exacerbate wrinkles.
Don’t: Take unnecessary risks
Avoid activities or situations that may lead to you bumping or hitting your face and neck—especially around kids, pets, and crowded environments.
By following these recommendations after your facelift, you can optimize your recovery time and feel better more quickly. Try not to skip meals, as good nutrition will aid healing, and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
When Will I Look “Normal” After a Facelift?
Most people start to look more “presentable” as bruising and swelling improve over the first 10 to 14 days, but a facelift is not a one-week recovery for everyone. A realistic planning framework includes:
- Return to work: often 1–2 weeks (desk/non-strenuous jobs)
- Social confidence: many feel comfortable by 3–4 weeks
- Major event: plan 6–8 weeks when possible
- Final refinement: continues for months as deeper swelling fully resolves
If you have an important wedding, trip, or on-camera event, tell your team early, so your plan matches your calendar.
After You’ve Healed: How To Maintain Your Facelift Results
Once you’re healed, some nonsurgical treatments can help maintain your skin quality and refresh your appearance without changing your facelift result. Common options include:
- ZO® Skincare Products
- Injectables & fillers
- PRP with microneedling
- Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing
Your best maintenance plan depends on your skin quality, sun exposure habits, and goals.
When To See a Facelift Specialist in Nashville
If you’re in Nashville, Brentwood, or the surrounding areas, and you’re noticing jowling, neck laxity, deeper folds, or a tired lower-face appearance that skincare and injectables can’t fully correct, it may be time to discuss a surgical facelift. A consultation is especially useful if you want:
- A realistic downtime plan for your work/social calendar
- Clarity on whether you’d benefit from a Reflection Lift vs. another approach
- Guidance on combining procedures (eyelid surgery, brow lift, fat transfer) for enhanced results
Get Started
If you’re considering a facelift (Reflection Lift) or another facial rejuvenation procedure, we encourage you to request a consultation or call Youthful Reflections at (615) 942-8016 to schedule an appointment.
This blog post was originally published in July 2023 and has been updated.
