Facelift surgery is among the most popular cosmetic procedures for a reason. It can help wipe away years of stress, fatigue, and aging, revitalizing the facial expression by firming the jawline, lifting the cheeks, and erasing lines and wrinkles. However, many patients worry about losing facial spontaneity after surgery and having to postpone social and professional commitments because of it. Below we will explore some of the factors affecting your facelift results and discuss how quickly you will be able to rejoin the world after surgery.
Surgical expertise matters
A skilled and experienced facial plastic surgeon understands the delicate, complex nature of a facelift and will strive to preserve and accentuate your natural beauty rather than make you look like someone else. A trusted, board-certified aesthetic surgeon can deliver results that are subtle, nuanced, and personalized. Choosing a well-credentialed expert ensures that as you heal, you will look just like yourself – only more refreshed, rejuvenated, and revitalized.
You may look worse before you look better
After a facelift, it can be alarming to see facial swelling, bruising, and redness. Rest assured, these side effects are perfectly normal and will pass fairly quickly. You should carefully follow your surgeon’s instructions and aftercare plan to ensure your healing stays on track. This may include sleeping with your head slightly elevated to reduce inflammation. You might also select special post-op pillows that help keep your incisions higher than your heart.
Expect limited facial movements for several weeks
While most patients will be able to smile and make normal facial expressions in 1-2 weeks after surgery, some may take more like 3-5 weeks. Any asymmetry in the lips or mouth will slowly resolve with time. Just know and understand that each patient is unique, and their healing process will also be individualized. Your plastic surgeon will be with you every step of the way as you heal and can answer any questions that may arise.
The average recovery time is two weeks
Most patients can expect to resume work and other normal activities two weeks after their surgery, provided they have a sedentary job. For those with more physically taxing jobs, more recovery time may be indicated. Your plastic surgeon will carefully monitor your healing and advise you on the best time to resume your normal schedule. Patients should continue to avoid strenuous exercise, contact sports, and any activity that could cause facial trauma for up to six weeks. Social appearances are a matter of choice, and patients can go out in public as soon as they feel ready, provided they are careful to avoid direct sunlight and harmful UV rays.
What is the takeaway?
A successful facelift outcome depends on the skill of the provider and the willingness of the patient to follow their doctor’s postoperative instructions. When both these conditions are met, patients can expect to look like themselves again within around two weeks. It’s important not to judge your facelift results too early, as bruising and swelling may be at their most intense during the first few days after surgery. Likewise, it’s important to recognize that there may be minor imperfections, such as asymmetry and scarring, that will slowly fade with time. Overall, a facelift can help you to look more relaxed, radiant, and attractive while preserving your natural facial expressions and facial spontaneity.