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Posted on June 15, 2020 in Facelift
A facelift can significantly reduce signs of aging like skin laxity and jowls, which is why it’s a popular procedure among men and women alike. Modern facelift techniques lead to a more youthful appearance that still looks natural. Before you choose a facelift, it’s important to know what you can expect in the weeks after the surgery. Here is a basic timeline of a typical facelift recovery.
The First Week After a Facelift
After your facelift, you’ll probably feel some discomfort, which can be treated with prescription pain medication, and you’ll likely be drowsy as well. You’ll need assistance from a trusted friend or family member who can care for you.
On the day after your facelift, you’ll have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Ransom to change dressings and check on any swelling and incisions. We will review your cleaning and care instructions again at this visit.
Throughout the first week, you should focus on getting adequate rest. You’ll likely experience swelling and bruising throughout this period, which usually peaks at about day three. Any discomfort you experience can be treated with either prescription or over-the-counter medication. Keeping your head elevated and avoiding straining is very important.
The Second Week After a Facelift
Day 7: Sutures are removed, cleaned, your wrapping refreshened and you will begin to see the first sign of results.
Throughout the second week, you can expect that the swelling and bruising, which will gradually begin to decrease. It’s possible that you will also feel some tingling, tightening, or numbing sensations; these are all normal symptoms during facelift recovery. Towards the end of your second week, you may begin to feel ready to return to light activities or work, depending on your everyday tasks. It is important to continue to avoid straining and lifting.
The Third and Fourth Weeks After a Facelift
You will likely experience some residual swelling and a sensation of tightness, but you will look and feel much better. At this point, you should be ready to return to most, if not all, of your normal activities. You may notice some pink or redness at the incision sites, but this is normal and will continue to fade. Sunscreen and topical silicone cream will be used in these areas.
One Month After Your Facelift
At one month post-op, you should be able to return to all normal activity including your exercise routine and see some of your great results from the facelift. Minor and inconspicuous swelling or bruising may still be present, but this should only be noticeable to you.
Contact Dr. Ransom to schedule your consultation. Fill out our online form or call (415) 550-1077 to set up your first appointment.
Dr. Evan Ransom is an Ivy League-educated and Ivy League trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is a Double Board Certified Head and Neck Surgeon and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and fellowship-trained in facial plastic, reconstructive, and laser surgery. His practice is in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving patients from San Francisco, Oakland, Marin County, Palo Alto, Silicon Valley, Walnut Creek, the East Bay, and all over Northern California.
