Facelift Recovery Timeline
Individuals who want to eliminate facial sagging and wrinkles can benefit from a facelift at our Little Rock, AR, cosmetic surgery practice, serving patients from Conway, AR, and Hot Springs, AR. Dr. Michael A. Devlin uses the most advanced techniques for very natural-looking results.
Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, it is important to know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Here, our team discusses the facelift recovery timeline and offers a few tips for a comfortable, successful healing process.
Facelift Recovery: Week One
For the first couple of days, patients typically feel sleepy and run down. It is important to rest and relax as much as possible during this time. Most individuals feel like being a bit more mobile by day three, and by the end of the first week, many patients feel like doing light activities.
Common side effects include discomfort, swelling, and bruising. These symptoms can be mitigated with medication provided by your doctor.
Keep in mind it is extremely important to follow Dr. Devlin’s postoperative instructions. This includes taking your medication and attending all follow-up visits.
Facelift Recovery: Week Two
By week two, swelling and bruising will likely linger. Some patients may experience tingling, numbness, or tightness as the areas heal. By the end of the second week, most individuals are ready to go back to work and resume normal routines.
Facelift Recovery: Weeks Three and Four
Though you may have some residual inflammation and tightness at this point, you will likely start feeling much better. Many individuals begin noticing the results of their facelift and can see clear improvements in facial contours. By this point, most patients can fully resume normal exercise routines. However, patients should be cleared by Dr. Devlin before resuming their exercise routine.
One Month and Beyond
By the 30-day mark, you should look and feel like yourself again. It can take several months for residual swelling, numbness, and tightness to subside – but those are rarely noticeable to anyone else.
Tips for a Successful Facelift Recovery
To ensure a successful recovery, patients should follow all postoperative instructions provided by Dr. Devlin. You will be given a specific list of guidelines following your facelift at our cosmetic surgery practice. Here are some general recommendations:
- Keep your head elevated for the first two weeks.
- Apply cold compresses to your face for the first three days after your procedure to reduce the risk of swelling and bruising.
- Avoid straining your facial muscles, especially during the first couple of days.
- Use proper sun protection anytime you go outdoors.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting – and only resume once cleared by Dr. Devlin.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Steer clear of alcohol and tobacco products.
Contact Us to Learn More
If you have recently undergone a facelift or are considering the procedure to enhance your appearance, it is important to know what to expect during recovery. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment at our cosmetic surgery practice, contact us online or call our office at (501) 227-8811.