People commonly see a facelift as a way to hit the reset button. It can bring back youthful contours, define the jawline, and soften signs of aging. But what comes after surgery is just as crucial as what happens during the procedure.
While plenty of pieces zero in on flashy celebrity makeovers or dramatic before-and-afters, what patients really want to know is pretty down-to-earth: How long until I’m no longer swollen? When can I return to my job? And (perhaps most of all) what does healing from this feel like, anyway?
At Revive Surgical Institute in Miami, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Morad Askari and Dr. David Gerth understand these worries all too well. Below, find out what they want you to know about recovering from a facelift —along with some tips for setting yourself up for success.
The First Few Days: Rest, Recovery, and Realistic Expectations
Dr. Morad Askari explains that it is completely normal to experience mild discomfort and swelling during the first 72 hours after a facelift. “During this time, we want the body to react to the procedure – that’s expected. Resting with the head elevated as much as possible also matters a lot.”
On discharge, most patients go home with clear written advice, a post-op kit, and dates for check-ups. “We give them everything from drugs and cold compresses to advice on how to look after themselves in detail,” says Dr. David Gerth. “We don’t want people to feel they’re going into a mysterious phase; we want their recovery to feel ‘do-able.”
At this time, patients should not bend, lift, or do anything strenuous. Sleeping with their head up will reduce swelling, and if they have been given any compression garments, these should be worn as instructed.
“It’s only natural to want to look at yourself in the mirror and start critiquing the results,” notes Dr. Askari. “But remember, the first few days are about recovery, not how you will appear in the long term.”
Dr. Gerth concurs: “Your body needs time to settle – this is key.” He adds that tissues are still adjusting during this early post-op period. “The things you do now, such as resting, keeping hydrated, and following advice, will lay the foundation for the weeks ahead.”
Returning to Routine Slowly
“During week two, many patients find their improvement very encouraging,” notes Dr. David Gerth. “They start to get back a bit of ‘pep’ and can do light daily activities again.”
By now, stitches are usually removed, and swelling is going down. There may still be some puffiness—especially after waking up—but the face is getting used to its new lines. “You could feel a little firmness here and there, perhaps round the jaw or in your cheeks,” says Dr. Morad Askari. Don’t worry; this is part of normal healing and will soften over the next few weeks.
Dr. Gerth encourages patients to walk and engage in light activity. However, they should still avoid anything that increases their heart rate or blood pressure.
“It’s fantastic how often people say they can start seeing the ‘old me’ – and I don’t just mean because they’ve lost weight or look better,” adds Dr. Gerth. “A psychological boost like that can be a real turning point.”
Seeing the Results Take Shape
“Between the third and sixth weeks, you’ll really be able to notice big changes,” notes Dr. Askari. “Swelling reduces a lot during this time, and the face starts to assume its final refined shape.”
Incision lines look good at this point as they continue to heal. Patients also see natural movement come back around the cheeks, jawline, and neck.
“Most patients can go back to work and slowly get back into their exercise routines and normal daily activities,” says Dr. Gerth. “There’s a feeling of real progression – it’s as though life is returning to how it was before, but with an added self-assurance.”
Patients also reach this juncture when they start to grasp the finesse behind the procedure. Dr. Askari puts it this way: “What we’re going for isn’t a taut or overt appearance. It’s about subtle revitalization that brings balance and vitality without altering who you are. You should still look like yourself—just a more well-rested, healthier-looking version.”
This philosophy is what sets Revive Surgical Institute apart, notes Dr. Gerth. “We always want the end result to complement your natural features. If you gaze in the mirror and see a better-looking version of yourself—not a different person—it means we’ve succeeded.”
Long-Term Results: What to Expect
Patients typically realize the full extent of their facelift outcomes within three months. At this point, any swelling has subsided, scars are starting to fade, and facial contours have settled down. Further enhancements may become apparent over the next three months as tissues settle further, scars mature, and skin gets used to its new support system.
How long results last varies from person to person and depends on factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle, and quality of skin. Nevertheless, most patients find that they look better than before for at least one decade.
It Starts with the Right Mindset
At Revive Surgical Institute, they believe that recovering from a facelift doesn’t need to be scary. But it does necessitate some planning. The most crucial thing you can do is establish realistic expectations.
Swelling, bruising, and feeling tight are all par for the course – and part of your body’s natural response to healing itself. The trick is realizing that your recovery takes place in stages, each of which is vital for achieving the final result.
Your surgeons should be there for you all the way through — with personalized schedules and check-ups. Dr. Askari and Dr. Gerth share one simple message: healing cannot be rushed… it takes time. Those who are able to be patient tend to get better results overall.
Written in partnership with Tom White
