Facelift swelling is usually most noticeable during the first several days and often improves considerably within two to three weeks. You may still experience mild fullness, firmness, or uneven swelling for several additional weeks as your tissues settle.
At Southlake Plastic Surgery, your facelift procedure and recovery plan are guided by Dr. Mark Mason and Dr. Matt Novak. Both are board-certified plastic surgeons who are highly trained in all aspects of cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.
What Should You Expect During the First Week?
Swelling and bruising generally build during the first few days after surgery. Your face might appear fuller than expected, and one side might look more swollen than the other. Temporary tightness and numbness are also common.
Keeping your head elevated and following your postoperative instructions can support recovery. Your surgeon will give you specific restrictions concerning bending, lifting, exercise, and other physical activities.
When Does Facelift Swelling Become Less Noticeable?
Bruising and swelling commonly last about 10 to 12 days. Many people take two to three weeks away from work, particularly when their job involves meeting with others in person. Makeup may help conceal lingering discoloration once your surgeon says it’s safe to apply cosmetics near the treated areas.
By weeks three through five, you’ll often look and feel much closer to normal. Your face might still feel slightly tight, and subtle inflammation can remain around the cheeks, jawline, or neck.
Can Swelling Last for Several Months?
Some swelling can linger after the obvious puffiness has faded, and it may fluctuate from day to day as healing continues. Follow your surgeon’s guidance about activity, diet, and other factors that are likely to affect your recovery.
Residual inflammation doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong. Facelift tissues continue to heal and settle for months. Southlake Plastic Surgery generally takes postoperative photographs at about six months, when the results are more established.
What Can Affect Your Recovery Timeline?
The length of your recovery may depend on:
- The extent of your facelift
- Whether you undergo eyelid surgery, a brow lift, or another procedure at the same time
- Your natural healing rate
- Your activity level after surgery
- How closely you follow postoperative directions
Call the office promptly if swelling suddenly increases, becomes very painful, appears markedly different on one side, or occurs with fever or drainage.
Discuss Facelift Surgery and Recovery in Southlake, TX
Southlake Plastic Surgery creates facelift recovery instructions around your procedure and personal needs. Contact us today to discuss your surgery and the healing period with Dr. Mason or Dr. Novak in Southlake, TX, or call (817) 442-8900.
