Facelift Recovery: From Day 1 to Day 30

The facelift is one of the best ways to rejuvenate your look and reduce signs of aging like wrinkles, folds, and sagging. If you’re considering a facelift, then you’re on your way to a younger, more refreshed version of yourself. You should know that your recovery is the most important part of your procedure, however, so here’s what you can expect from your recovery period as you schedule your consultation with your plastic surgeon.

Day 1

When you wake up from surgery, you’ll feel groggy and unsteady, so you’ll need to have someone drive you home. Your head will be wrapped in bandages, and small drainage tubes may be inserted. Your face will be swollen and bruised, but don’t be alarmed. This is a normal part of your post-surgery recovery and will improve as you heal.

Dr. Richardson will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics, and you should keep your head elevated when you’re sleeping to reduce swelling and bruising. Follow all postoperative instructions carefully, including the use of medication. This will help manage swelling and make sure you’re comfortable enough to get the rest you need.

Day 2

On day two, you and Dr. Richardson will have a follow-up meeting. Your surgical dressing will be removed, and he’ll assess your swelling and stitches. If everything’s satisfactory, he’ll change your bandages, remove the drains, and send you home. You’ll probably still be very swollen, and Dr. Richardson will assess whether you’ll need to continue taking pain medication. You should also avoid any type of exertion.

Day 3

This is the day when bruising and swelling will be the worst. In the coming weeks, they will still be present, but less intense. You may be instructed to take pain medication if you’re uncomfortable.

Days 4 to 6

Typically, pain starts to diminish at days four to six, and you’ll no longer need medication. Swelling and bruising become less visible, as well. You’ll be able to move more comfortably, and Dr. Richardson may permit you to resume simple activities such as cooking or walking.

Days 7 to 14

From days seven to 14, the incision sites will keep healing, but these areas may feel stiff or numb. This is normal. Pain, bruising, and swelling will substantially diminish, and Dr. Richardson will remove your sutures. Incision lines may look pink and puffy, but don’t be alarmed. As time passes, they will fade.

Days 15 to 30

During days 15 to 30, the healing ramps up. Your “new face” will begin emerging, and you’ll start distinctly seeing your anticipated results. Swelling will dissipate and bruising should be gone. Some lingering numbness is normal and will fade away. From here, your results will continue to refine and emerge. You’ll enjoy long-term results and can begin looking at your options for maintaining your results with professional skincare treatments and products with the help of your plastic surgeon.

Schedule a Consultation

The best way to learn more about your facelift options is by meeting with a board certified facial plastic surgeon. To schedule a consultation with our team, we invite you to contact our Gulfport office by calling or filling out our online form.