Facelift recovery can be overwhelming for some. The recovery process may include swelling, bruising, and pain. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions.
For the first two weeks after surgery, you’ll need to avoid strenuous activity and be sure to get plenty of rest. You’ll also want to eat a healthy diet. This will help boost your immune system and help your body heal.
Swelling and bruising should subside after about three days, and your face should start to look better. You should be able to return to light physical activity by about six weeks.
Some patients may experience numbness or strange sensations, such as cold sweats. These symptoms can last from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of your surgery.
Some areas of your face and neck may feel lumpy or tight, and you might experience a mild numbness in your ears. However, this is normal. Your doctor will have prescribed pain medications to deal with discomfort.
You should try to sleep on your side with an elevated head and a pillow. Avoid sleeping on your back or on a bed with a bandage. If you have a chin strap, you’ll need to wear it for two weeks, after which it will be removed.
You can begin to see a reduction in your wrinkles and excess skin in about a month. If you are a smoker, stop smoking for at least four weeks. To protect your skin, use sunscreen.