A facelift, also referred to as rhytidectomy, helps to fight against different signs of aging on the patient’s face and neck. For example, it can help to eliminate wrinkles or sagging skin around these areas and help you look more youthful. Before undergoing this surgical procedure, you should research to acquire crucial information, such as the recovery process. Read on to learn more about the recovery in the first month after the surgery.
How long is Recovery from Facelift Procedure?
The recovery period depends on different factors, such as the type of procedure performed and the patient’s age and health status. However, following your surgeon’s guidelines and knowing what to expect during the postoperative period can contribute significantly to fast recovery. Here is a 4-weeks guide for normal facelift recovery.
Recovery Week 1
The most important thing during the first week after the surgery is following postoperative incision care. For instance, you should clean the incision with the recommended products to prevent infections.
Day 1
It is normal to feel sleepy and unstable immediately after the surgery. For this reason, you should have friends and relatives to take you home and take care of you. Taking pain medications will also help you reduce discomfort.
Day 2
You should attend the first follow-up visit during this time. Dr. Bryan Gawley and Dr. Jennifer A. Geoghegan will remove the surgical dressings to check whether the incisions have any unusual swelling. They will then re-dress the area after ensuring that everything is normal.
Day 3
Most patients start to feel better and desire to move around on this day. However, surgeons advise patients to rest and continue taking medication.
Day 4-6
At this time, the swelling will start reducing. Additionally, the discomfort may have disappeared, meaning that you may move around comfortably and stop taking the pain medications. You can also engage in light house chores.
Recovery Week 2
The affected areas might still be swollen and bruised during this week. Moreover, you may experience some numbness or tightness, but these occurrences should not worry you. On the 14th day, most facelift patients are usually ready to resume their regular schedules and various light activities, such as walking.
Recovery Week 3 and 4
Your surgeon will remove the sutures at the end of the first or third week, depending on how fast you heal. The affected parts might still experience swelling and tightness in the third and fourth weeks. However, most patients start to feel better and see their facial contour improving. The pinkish-red hue on the incision sites will also begin to fade away.
After Day 30
You can resume your normal activities 30 days after undergoing the surgical procedure. You should also expect minor swelling, numbness, and tightness, which require several months to fade away.
In summary, every patient has a unique experience when it comes to facelift recovery. Following the surgeon’s directions and taking necessary precautions will enable you to recover fast.
Best Facelift in Scottsdale, AZ
Our team of surgeons at Gawley Plastic Surgery will guide you through the entire process to ensure that you have an easy recovery and achieve the best outcomes. Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Bryan Gawley or Dr. Jennifer A. Geoghegan by filling out an online contact form.