Recovery Time after Facelift

After you have had a facelift surgery performed by an expert facial plastic surgeon, you will get to enjoy looking younger and more beautiful all while feeling a boost of self confidence. However, Orange County patients who want to have a facelift performed in order to reduce the signs of aging have to remember that it is still a major surgical procedure.

The facelift recovery process can take time, and it’s important that Newport Beach residents know what to expect in the days and weeks that follow this procedure.

What Do I Need to Know About the Recovery Time after the Facelift?

You might feel disoriented, uncomfortable and even nauseous when you first wake up in the recovery room after the surgery. This is normal, and try not to be alarmed. The surgery is performed using general anesthesia, and these are common side effects that patients experience as the anesthesia wears off.

There will be a dressing on your face, and your face will feel swollen, sore and puffy. You may not look like yourself if you decide to check out your reflection in the mirror, but recognize that your face has been through a traumatic event.

Excess skin was removed and facial muscles were tightened in order to provide you with the best results possible in the long-term.

You will not be able to drive after the operation, and you will want to have a caretaker available to help you for at least the first 24 hours after the surgery. It is important to rest for about 24 hours with your head elevated. Avoid washing your hair during this time.
Most patients experience moderate pain and discomfort for a few days after the facelift has been performed. Prescription pain medications will be provided to you by the surgeon in order to help you manage your pain. Avoid taking any blood-thinning medications after the operation, such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen sodium.
Swelling and bruising is a normal side effect of the facelift recovery. Many patients are surprised to find out that swelling actually increases for about three days, and then subsides quickly after that.

The swelling will continue to subside for about two weeks, and will ultimately disappear completely. Patients can use cold compresses on their face in order to reduce swelling. Resting with your head elevated also will minimize the swelling significantly.

Ultimately, the facelift recovery lasts for about two weeks. After this time has passed, most people are able to return to work and wear makeup as normal. While there may be some lingering swelling and bruising, for the most part you will be able to enjoy the results of the surgery at this point and reveal your new look to family and friends.

It is important to follow all post-operative instructions that were provided to you by your surgeon, and to make it a point to attend all follow-up visits with the facial plastic surgeon. This will ensure that you get the best results from your facelift procedure.