You just had a facelift. This procedure can refresh your appearance and make you look years younger. Now that you are in the recovery period, there are still a lot of important instructions you must follow to have your best outcome. . The first month is so important. Continue to follow all your doctor's orders to heal correctly.
Let's walk through what to expect in the month following your procedure.
Rest Days 1-3
Even if you are the type of person that finds it difficult to relax, this is the most important part of your healing process, especially right after surgery. Let yourself relax - doctor's orders! You'll likely feel wiped out from the medications. Sleepiness is normal. Have a loved one drive you home and help. Use pillows to keep your head propped up. Propping up your head helps bring down swelling. Take the painkillers if you need them. Hydrate lots by drinking water and juices. Light activity is acceptable, like strolling around your home. But no heavy lifting or exercise now! Just focus on healing.
Expect to see your surgeon the next day. They'll check out your incisions. Bandages may get changed. Ask any questions on your mind! Follow all their tips to recover appropriately.
Swelling and bruising often hit their peak around day 3. Your face may look puffy - don't freak out! A puffy face is regular after a facelift. Rest like crazy. Don't do stuff that could spike your blood pressure, like exercise, straining, or bending over. These activities can make the swelling go bonkers. If you have pain, keep taking those medications.
Swelling Goes Down Over Week 1
Hang in there - the swelling should start decreasing now. Bruising may spread down your neck. No need to worry - it's all part of the process. By now, you may only need a little pain medicine. A little gentle housework is okay if you feel like it. But no heavy lifting or intense exercise yet! Be friendly to your body.
Start Feeling More Like Yourself in Week 2
You'll feel much more like your old self in the second week. Those with swelling keep getting better. Same for those lovely bruises. Numb or tingly skin is still common. Don't stress - this goes away with time. Many folks go back to work around the end of week two. Short, gentle walks outside can feel great now.
See Major Improvements In Weeks 3-4
By weeks three and four, the swelling had calmed down. Now, you'll start to see your beautiful new contours emerge! Scars still look pink or red. No worries - this will fade over the next year. You can get back to your usual exercise and activities now. Most people feel comfortable being seen in public around this time. Relax and let people enjoy your gorgeous results!
What To Do Beyond the First Month
Within a year, even minor swelling should resolve fully. Mild numbness or tightness can also take a year to vanish. But most patients look radiant after just one month! Be patient for any final little tweaks. Avoid direct sun on scars for at least a year - wear sunscreen daily. Keep skin soft with moisturizer. Follow all your doctor's tips for the very best long-term results.
Tips For Healing Quickly and Well
Rest tons the first week - sleep heals!
Keep your head nice and elevated on pillows when resting.
Take pain meds precisely as your doctor advises.
Weeks 1-2: No straining or bending over.
No sun on incisions for a year - use sunscreen and hats!
Call your doctor if you have severe pain, bleeding, or anything worrying.
Skip smoking while you recover - it slows healing.
Drink water and eat nutrient-rich foods to heal the body!
Stuff To Avoid While Recovering
Heavy exercise for two weeks
Lifting anything heavy for 3-4 weeks
Letting the sun hit your scars for one year.
Blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen
Sleeping on your tummy or side
Cocktails for two weeks - let your body heal first!
Driving for at least the first few days
Call The Doc If You Notice Any of This:
Severe pain not relieved by meds.
Heavy bleeding from your incisions
A fever over 101 F - could signal an infection.
Pus or nasty odor from incisions
Warm, red skin near incisions
Much worse swelling on one side of the face
Vision issues
Shortness of breath
Leg pain, swelling, or redness.
FAQs
When can I go back to work?
Most people take 2-3 weeks off. Desk jobs, you may start sooner. Jobs with heavy lifting need the full four weeks for recovery.
What about sleeping on my side?
Sleep on your back for the first six weeks. Side sleeping can put pressure on your face. After six weeks, my sleeping side is fine. Use a soft pillow under your cheek.
When can I drive again?
Driving is not permitted for a few days since you will be sedated with painkillers. You can drive again when you have minimal pain, usually 1-2 weeks.
When can I wear makeup?
Light mineral makeup is okay after two weeks. Give it a month before using eyeliner, mascara, or heavy makeup close to scars.
How long do results last?
Anywhere from 7-15 years is typical. Maintaining your weight and caring for your skin helps results last even longer.
When can I exercise again?
Light walking is fine after week 1. More strenuous workouts can resume after 3-4 weeks. Ease back into exercise slowly and listen to your body.
The first month after a facelift is so essential. Follow your doctor's instructions strictly. Speak up if you have worries or questions! Care for those incisions. Get lots of rest. Each week, you'll look more refreshed and youthful! In a month, you'll see your beautiful new self completely shine through!
