Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

After undergoing facelift surgery, upon awakening, you will likely find a large wrapping around your head aimed at minimizing swelling and bruising. Additionally, small drains may be in place temporarily to manage any fluid drainage. Initially, you may feel groggy and unsteady, particularly during the first 24 hours following the surgery.

The day after your procedure typically requires the most pain medication. By the second day, you will likely have a follow-up visit with your cosmetic surgeon. During this appointment, your surgeon will examine your incisions, assess swelling, change your surgical dressings, and remove any drains if necessary. While it's important to take it easy during the first seven days of recovery, most patients find themselves feeling well enough to move around their home within one to two days post-surgery.

Swelling and bruising tend to peak around three to four days after surgery. To help reduce swelling, it's recommended that you sleep with your head elevated on two pillows for the first two weeks. Maintaining this elevated position is crucial for an optimal recovery. By day four, you will likely no longer need pain medication, and swelling should begin to diminish. At this stage, it's beneficial to engage in light activities such as light housework to stimulate circulation and facilitate the recovery process.

In the second week following your surgery, it's common to experience ongoing swelling and bruising in the treated areas. While the swelling and bruising gradually diminish, it typically takes another one to two weeks for them to completely resolve. By the end of the second week, many individuals begin to feel more like their usual selves and often consider returning to work, though it's advisable to continue avoiding strenuous physical activities.

During the third and fourth weeks after your surgery, the removal of your sutures will occur, timed according to the procedure you underwent and your individual healing progress. While your sutures were in place, your incision sites might have appeared puckered or irregular, but once removed, they will start to smooth out. During weeks 3 and 4, residual swelling may still be present (which is normal and will diminish), but this is typically when patients begin to notice significant improvement in their facial appearance.

By the time one month has passed since your surgery, it will be difficult for anyone to detect that you underwent cosmetic surgery, and you should resume normal activities with your refreshed appearance. It's important to note that minor swelling, tightness, and numbness may persist for up to a year, but these sensations are usually only noticeable to you. Keep in mind, the final results of your facelift will gradually become more apparent over the next 12 months. This timeframe allows for complete healing and enables you to observe the subtle transformations that enhance your rejuvenated appearance.