What Does Recovery Look Like After a Facelift?

A facelift is an excellent surgical procedure to resolve the inevitable effects of aging facial skin. It repositions underlying tissues that have started drooping due to skin laxity and gravity. It resolves unwanted lines, wrinkles, folds, and perhaps hollows in the cheek area. Though dermal fillers can temporarily solve this aesthetic issue, a facelift will create more dramatic, longer-lasting results.

Though facelift techniques have improved by leaps and bounds over the years and this procedure has a long track record of safety when performed by a skilled surgeon like Dr. George Landis, many people are still anxious about getting plastic surgery. They may be unwilling to take time out of their busy lifestyles to commit to a recovery process.

If you are considering a facelift, it’s essential to understand the procedure and what happens following surgery. Though it may take a few months to realize your optimal outcome, your healing period should only represent a fraction of that time.

It is challenging to provide an accurate facelift recovery timeline, since your experience will vary depending on your age, overall health, and the technique you and your surgeon choose. However, knowing what to expect after surgery should decrease any nervousness you feel.

How Long Is Facelift Recovery?

In the weeks following surgery, you will have bruising and swelling, though this will only last a relatively short time. You should feel comfortable going out in public – including work and social activities – after two to four weeks. However, to get the complete picture of how you will look after your facelift, you may have to wait up to three months for your optimal benefits.

How Long Does Tightness Last After a Facelift?

After a facelift, you will feel tightness because this surgery pulls your facial tissue upward. However, this sensation should last no more than three months. Please note that tightness is a typical side effect of a facelift and is usually no cause for alarm.

How Long Do Facelift Incisions Take to Heal?

The scars at the incision sites for your facelift will be visible for about six months. Still, you can feel reassured that Dr. Landis will take care to make facelift incisions in discreet locations that you can quickly camouflage with makeup.

In discussions with his facelift patients, Dr. Landis will explain the exact incision spots, how he hides potential scarring, and what will be visible. But if you’re worried about returning to work and having noticeable scars, rest assured they will be minimal. The wounds will start as a pink color and fade to white, almost impossible to see.

What Is the Quickest Way to Recover From a Facelift?

Dr. Landis will provide instructions on how to take good care of yourself during the recovery period. While everyone heals at different rates, these post-surgery directions will help you feel more comfortable and less nervous.

It is essential to be patient through the initial weeks of recovery and take time to rest when you feel you need it. Expect some facial bruising, but understand it’s temporary. We will ask you to sleep with your head elevated to reduce inflammation and slowly wean yourself off pain medication if prescribed.

After one month, most patients return to moderate activity. But facelift recovery is personal, so pay attention to your body. The healing process takes time, but you’ll find it’s worth it to look up to a decade younger.

Reach out for Your Private Minneapolis Facelift Consultation

If you have facial flaws that make you look older, Dr. Landis can help. Contact us to discuss your options for facial rejuvenation. Call (952) 562-5940 or schedule a consultation online.

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