Let's Walk Through the Different Days After Your Facelift Recovery
Facelifts are popular and effective surgical procedures that can correct a variety a facial aging concerns and create a fresh, revitalized appearance. When considering a facelift, it may be beneficial to have a clear understanding of what you can expect from your recovery. While Dr. Shuster will provide you with detailed pre and postoperative instructions, here is general timeline of what you can expect from your facelift recovery.
Day 1
You’ll feel groggy when you wake up from surgery, so be sure to arrange a ride home with a friend or loved one. It’s a good idea to ask someone to help and monitor you for the first night, as well. Pain medications will be prescribed to minimize swelling and manage discomfort. Be sure to get these prescriptions filled prior to your surgery so they will be easily available when you get home.
Day 2
Dr. Shuster typically likes to see patients the day after their facelifts to examine the incisions and change bandages. This will be your opportunity to ask any questions that may have arisen and get any additional care you may require. You will continue to need to rest and will likely still need pain medication.
Day 3
You may start to feel like moving around more by day three of your recovery, but you should continue to get the rest your body needs for optimal healing. Swelling and bruising are often most pronounced during this stage, but will begin to gradually subside. Pain medication may still be needed at this time.
Days 4 to 6
You will likely feel more inclined to move around, and will need pain medication less and less over the coming days. To continue to heal properly, limit your daily activities to light housework and other low-impact movements.
Days 7 to 14
During this stage of recovery, your incisions will keep healing, although you may experience some numbness and tightening in the area. Swelling and bruising will continue to be present. By the conclusion of week two, most patients are able to return to work and light exercise, such as walking. Strenuous exercise can put undue pressure on healing tissues, so continue to avoid it.
Days 15 to 30
Sutures are typically removed one to three weeks after surgery. Some tightness and swelling may continue to be present, but you should feel generally good enough to resume your regular activities. You may notice a pinkish-color around your incision sites, but this will fade slowly over time.
After Day 30
You can resume your normal activities after day 30. You may continue to experience some swelling and bruising, however. Some tightness and numbness may also occur, but these issues typically resolve after time. You will begin to see your final results from this point forward.
Schedule Your Facelift Consultation Today
To learn more about facelifts, or other facial plastic surgery procedures, contact us today online or at, 954-961-5500 to arrange a complimentary consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bernard Shuster. We serve patients in Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and the surrounding areas of Florida.
