Your Facelift Recovery Explained: Day 1 to Day 30
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a popular procedure for addressing signs of ageing in the face and neck, such as wrinkles, jowls, and sagging skin. This surgery can help you achieve a more youthful, natural appearance. If you’re considering a facelift, understanding the recovery process is just as important as knowing about the surgery itself. While final results can take a few months to become fully visible, the initial recovery typically spans 30 days. Here’s a detailed day-by-day guide to help you know what to expect during this period.
Facelift Recovery: Week 1
Day 1
After surgery, you might feel unsteady and sleepy. Arrange for family or friends to drive you home and care for you during your first night. Pain medication is usually most needed on this day to manage discomfort.
Day 2
You’ll have a follow-up visit with your surgeon, who will check your incisions and change or remove surgical dressings if necessary. If everything looks good, you’ll receive further postoperative care instructions and be sent home.
Day 3
Rest is crucial, but you should start feeling better and more mobile. Bruising and swelling typically peak around this time but will persist for several weeks. Continue taking pain medication if needed.
Days 4-6
By now, most patients no longer require prescription pain medication. Swelling should start to subside, and you’ll likely feel more comfortable moving around. Light activities, like gentle housework, may be permitted if you feel up to it.
Facelift Recovery: Week 2
Days 7-14
Expect some lingering swelling and bruising. Numbness, tingling, and tightness are also common but usually temporary. By the end of this week, many people feel ready to return to work and resume light activities like walking.
Facelift Recovery: Weeks 3 and 4
Days 15-30
Sutures may be removed anytime between the end of week one and week three, depending on your specific procedure and healing process. During weeks 3 and 4, most patients notice significant improvements in facial contour and feel much better overall. Although some swelling and tightness may persist, you can generally resume normal activities and exercise without noticeable signs of the procedure. Incision sites may still appear pinkish-red but will fade over time.
What to Expect After Day 30
After the first month, you should be able to return to all normal activities and enjoy your rejuvenated appearance. Minor swelling, bruising, tightness, and numbness may take up to a year to completely resolve, but these are typically only noticeable to you.
Remember, these timeframes are general guidelines. Each person’s recovery experience is unique. Always follow your plastic surgeon’s specific instructions and communicate with them throughout your recovery. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information and support.
