Facelift patients are advised to expect a fair amount of swelling and bruising after their procedure. A compression wrap may be applied around the chin and head after surgery. Post-operative instructions will discuss how long compression is needed. From the onset of the recovery period, it is imperative that patients follow their post-op instructions. These will outline everything from medication use to when and how to shower and which activities to avoid and which to do. Walking is a necessary activity to help prevent blood clots in the legs after surgery. During the first week of recovery, it is beneficial to have electrolyte solutions like Gatorade, soups and soft foods available. Patients can expect to be tired a lot of the time. The majority of their energy is being used to heal, so rest and some extra hours of sleep are vital aspects during this first phase of recovery. In addition to sleeping with the head elevated, eyelid patients may be instructed to apply cold compresses or ice to the eyes to help reduce swelling and bruising.
At the two-week mark after facelift surgery, the majority of bruising and swelling may have subsided. Patients may return to work at this time, provided that their occupation does not require strenuous physical activity. Expect some swelling, tightness and resolving bruising to persist at this stage, so it may be apparent close up that you have had some work done. Makeup, long hair placed strategically in front of your ears, and high neck tops can help hide this. The more labor-intensive one's job, the more time off they may need to fully recover. As the swelling continues to subside and nerve endings are waking up, sensations like tingling may be noticed. Activity restrictions will remain in place for another few weeks, at least. Patients may begin resuming some of their usual activities sometime around four weeks post-op. At that time, most of the swelling and bruising should be gone. The skin may feel tight, but the visible results of the facelift won't necessarily reflect this. Patients can expect to look rested, rejuvenated, and beautifully natural by 6 weeks.