Facial plastic surgery is one of the most advanced and fascinating surgeries in the medical field. But you want to know how soon you’ll start to feel better and how soon you’ll go back to looking like normal. And not just looking like normal, but looking like the new you. Recovery times vary, but here are some things to be aware of.
In the weeks after surgery, you will have bruising and swelling, though this will only last a relatively short time. You should go back to looking like normal after 2-4 weeks. To get the full impression of what the “new you” will look like after your facelift, you may need to wait 2-3 months to get the full effect.
How long does tightness last after a facelift?
After a facelift, you will feel tightness in your face, and this is simply because your face is tighter. The skin has been pulled tighter, and you will have that sensation in your face for some time afterward. However, this tightness sensation should last no more than 2-3 months and you’ll be used to the facelift.
Please note that during this period of tightness you are not in any danger. The tightness is a totally normal part of the procedure.
How long do facelift scars take to heal?
The scars at the incision sites for your facelift will be visible for about six months, but the good thing is that they are almost all in places that will be difficult to see, and easily covered up with makeup.
In the discussions between the surgeon and patient, Dr. Jacono will explain exactly where the incisions will be, what will be hidden, and what will be visible. But if you’re worried about returning to work and having exposed scars, you can be assured that they will be minimal, if visible at all. The scars will start as a pink color and fade to white that’s almost impossible to see.
What is the fastest way to recover from a facelift?
During the recovery period, your plastic surgeon, Dr. Jacono, will give you instructions on how to take care of yourself. While every surgery is different and may have minor variations in the instructions, most facelift surgery instructions will tell you to make sure you’re calm and feel comfortable. Avoid activities like exercise, jogging, or lifting anything heavy for the first several days after the cosmetic surgery.
It is important to be patient through the first one to two weeks and simply take care of yourself. The healing process has begun, and you will have bruising on your face and neck, but it’s only temporary. You will be asked to sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling, and you’ll slowly be weaning yourself off pain medication. (Most facelifts only require over-the-counter pain medication.)
By one month, you should be able to return to moderate activity, but you need to pay attention to your body and what it’s feeling. The recovery process takes time, but it’s worth it. You’ll soon look years younger!
