Face Lift

How Long Does Recovery Take After FaceLift Surgery?

Immediately after surgery:

• Dressings are placed along the incision lines and the head is wrapped in a bandage, which helps reduce swelling. These bandages are removed a day or two later.
• Your head will be elevated to reduce swelling.
• Most patients experience little discomfort after a face lift, but will still appear bruised and swollen for a few days. If you feel discomfort, you will be given medication for pain.

Sutures are removed about five to 10 days after surgery. Incisions and bandages must be kept dry. The surgeon will give you specific instructions about how to bathe and wash your hair. Once the sutures are taken out, you can use make-up. But you may not be allowed to use hair tints and hair dryers for some time.

Complete Recovery

Most people recover in two to three weeks. During this time, bruises heal and swelling goes down. Take it easy and avoid vigorous activity.

It’s normal to feel some numbness and muscle stiffness for some time, and complete return of sensation may take several months. Earrings should not be worn until sensation has returned to the earlobes.

Scars can take nearly a year to fade and soften. The hair should hide most of the scars. Make-up and jewelry can camouflage other scarring.