Recovery from a facelift is somewhat different than other plastic surgery procedures. While there is not as much discomfort, the psychological effects of watching your own face recover from facelift surgery can initially be challenging.

At Dr. John Burns plastic surgery, we do everything possible to minimize the recovery process but as with any elective procedure, it still takes some time and patience. The process has become much easier than in years past when patients would require weeks of downtime after surgery. Today, we have more sophisticated techniques and recovery processes to get you through much faster so you can enjoy your new, more youthful appearance.

It's Not Recovery You'll Want To Sprint Through

In our practice, we believe that an educated patient is an empowered patient, and our team strives to help you know what to expect with your facelift recovery so you can be compliant and patient with the process.

Knowing what to expect during your recovery helps many men and women advance through the mental milestones of recovery progress as they heal. We've put together this guide for facelift recovery to help you get through your recovery time fully aware of what to expect while preparing you to have minimal downtime. That said, keep in mind that you’ll want to give yourself a couple of weeks for initial recovery by keeping a slower day-to-day schedule, as this cannot be rushed.

This Is Your Face

Facelifts are incredibly delicate procedures involving your entire face and neck, unlike a standalone facial procedure like an eyelid lift or body plastic surgery that can be more easily concealed. Keep in mind, Dr. Burns is not just removing excess loose skin, he’s elevating the SMAS in the deep plane to create a more refreshed expression. Many times he’ll incorporate laser resurfacing to refine the skin texture, and facial fat grafting to restore contour to volume-depleted areas of the face. The temporary side effects and healing associated with both of the procedures can cause swelling that will go away as you settle into your rejuvenated appearance.

All of these reasons point to proper vetting when it comes to making your selection for choice of facelift surgeon. Your plastic surgeon should be board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Take time to examine their before and after photos and make sure you like the results. In our practice, we reserve many facelift outcomes for patients who prefer to be excluded from our website and social media, but who allow us to use their photos to educate on the different facelift techniques and holistic outcomes. Also, take time to thoroughly read through their online reviews for takeaways on other patient experiences.

When you visit Dr. John Burns for your complimentary facelift consult, we can put you in touch with several facelift patients who are comfortable sharing their journey with you to help you be better educated and prepared.

Be Patient With The Process, You're Going To Look Fantastic

It can be helpful to make a recovery schedule checklist for daily tasks while healing such as taking your medications, drinking plenty of water, eating daily meals, etc. Many of our patients take Arnica and bromelain for bruising and swelling. Ice and elevation are also helpful in easing the swelling and skin tightness many patients feel. 

Some patients find facial massage to be beneficial. Our skincare center, EpiCentre, offers manual lymphatic drainage massage which alleviates facial discomfort and tightness. Some patients opt for red light therapy masks which data suggests is helpful with early recovery. 

Mini Deep Plane Facelift Versus Full Facelift Recovery

There are some nuances with each facelift procedure and recovery differs if you have additional procedures such as eyelid rejuvenation/blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty, lip lift, fat grafting, or laser.  

Mini Facelift Recovery

In a mini facelift, there are shorter incisions and no separate neck incisions. The bruising and swelling are generally less as there is less dissection and undermining of the skin required.  

Full Facelift Recovery

For a full facelift, the recovery is generally more extensive due to the combination of face and neck surgery. The neck lift itself involves more extensive dissection and often bruises more simply due to the effects of gravity. The degree of skin tightening will play a huge role in the length of recovery. At the end of the day, we want your facelift to last 10 years for you, and Dr. Burns will make certain to give you the best results possible.

The Day-By-Day Facelift Play-by-Play

Day 1

You will be wrapped in a surgical dressing with drains in place to collect any fluid and minimize pressure on your face and neck. Your surgical dressing will stay in place until we see you in the office the next day. You’ll rest in bed with your head elevated and apply cool compresses around your face and eyes to help with swelling. Your face will feel numb. You’ll be able to eat and drink normally as well as walk. The next day, day 2, we will take off the surgical dressing, remove the drains, clean your hair and incisions, and apply antibiotic cream to your incision. Your wrap will be replaced with a lighter dressing which can easily be removed.  

Days 3-5

Bruising and swelling are generally worse before they get better. Oftentimes, bruising and swelling will settle in the neck and chest area. It’s completely normal. Continue with icing, resting elevated, and taking your arnica. Most patients transition away from pain medication during this time.  

Days 7-14

Bruising and swelling continue to diminish. You might feel ok with light mineral-based makeup to leave the house. Many patients can drive after one week. You likely won’t feel comfortable seeing close friends or relatives yet but seeing strangers at the grocery store or cleaners might be ok for you. You can do some light walking outside the house to get some fresh air.

Day 15 and Beyond

By 2 weeks you should be able to see friends and family without feeling self-conscious. You might still require cover-up makeup. Most of your swelling should have resolved by this time. Your incisions will still be red but not visible when wearing your hair down. Your facelift scars will fade to an imperceptible fine white line over time. If you’ve had additional procedures like a laser you might need a little longer for your recovery.