A facelift is a popular cosmetic procedure that can achieve transformative results. It’s one of the most effective ways to address wrinkles, sagging, deep creases, and other common signs of aging. However, committing to any plastic surgery procedure involves careful consideration—and that includes understanding the recovery process.
With this in mind, let’s explore what every patient should know about facelift recovery, including helpful tips to position you for optimal healing and results.
Your Customized Reflection Lift
As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who has performed more than 4,000 facelift surgeries, I perform a signature facelift procedure called the Reflection Lift. It’s a fully customized approach to facial rejuvenation that delivers natural-looking yet transformative results. The procedure features three distinct levels to address specific aging symptoms and concerns. You can learn more about how we tailor a Reflection Lift to your unique needs in a related blog post.
Facelift Recovery Timeline
The good news for my patients is that a Reflection Lift leads to faster recovery than other facelift methods. This is because I use a conservative approach and perform the procedure using light sedation and local anesthesia. Although every patient differs, most patients should dedicate 1 to 2 weeks to their facelift recovery and downtime. During this period, it is essential to adhere to your surgeon’s facelift post-op protocol and prioritize rest and healing.
Your recovery time after a facelift can generally be broken into four phases:
Phase 1
During your first week post-surgery, it is common to experience swelling, bruising, and some initial discomfort. We prescribe pain medication to keep you as comfortable as possible as you heal. While rest should be prioritized, we encourage you to boost your circulation and spirits by taking short, gentle walks. It’s also essential to have a trusted support system in place to assist with caregiving and household responsibilities while you focus on healing and recovery.
Phase 2
After 2 weeks, your visible bruising and swelling have mostly diminished. Most patients can return to work and other non-strenuous activities. Many patients apply makeup to cover any residual bruising.
Phase 3
After 3 to 4 weeks, you should feel comfortable showing off your new look at social events. You can resume workouts and other physical activities. Most residual swelling and bruising has subsided by 6 to 8 weeks. Avoiding sun exposure, applying sunscreen, and maintaining a good skin care regimen is essential.
Phase 4
By now, you’re looking and feeling as great on the outside as you do on the inside! As you show off your results, continue to have patience with the healing process. It can take 9 to 12 months to achieve complete healing and results.
Facelift Recovery Tips
After undergoing facelift surgery and recovery, many patients are thrilled to realize that their facelift can take 10 to 15 years off their appearance, and results can last up to a decade. Just understand that turning back the clock with a facelift doesn’t halt the natural aging process. You can ease the recovery process and preserve your results by:
- Planning ahead by filling medications, stocking your freezer, and arranging for help.
- Taking it easy and being careful not to jeopardize healing by taking on too much too soon.
- Protecting your skin by avoiding sun exposure and using high-quality skincare products.
- Staying healthy, hydrating, and eating nutritious, well-balanced meals.
Schedule a Consultation
Now that you understand what facelift recovery entails, are you ready to take the next step toward looking younger and more refreshed? We encourage you to view our before-and-after photo gallery to see the type of results a customized Reflection Lift can create. If you’re ready to learn what a facelift can do for you, request a consultation online or contact us at (615) 942-8016 to schedule an appointment.
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