If you’re getting ready for a facelift or just had the surgery, one big question probably comes up: what now?
The recovery stage usually brings a lot of anticipation, especially because it requires some specific care and patience.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what typically happens during the days and weeks after the procedure. You’ll see how the body tends to respond, what helps you feel more comfortable, and when most people start getting back to their routine.
What happens right after a facelift procedure
Right after the facelift, most patients stay in a recovery room for monitoring. The medical team checks vital signs and observes how the body starts responding to the procedure.
In many cases, going home happens the same day, along with detailed instructions for the first phase of facelift recovery.
Bandages and drains
The treated area usually stays wrapped in compression bandages to reduce swelling and protect the skin. Small drains might be placed behind the ears to help remove excess fluids. These drains often get removed during the first follow-up visit, usually one or two days after surgery.
Numbness and tightness in the face
Feeling some numbness or stiffness in the face during the first few hours is common. This temporary lack of sensation marks the beginning of facelift recovery.
Some people also describe mild pressure or tightness in the cheeks, jawline, or neck, especially while speaking or chewing.
Swelling and bruising appear quickly
Visible signs of the surgery show up within the first 24 hours. Swelling tends to concentrate around the cheeks and eyes and may increase until day three.
Bruising can also appear, often changing colors as it fades. These symptoms reflect the body’s natural response at the start of facelift recovery.
Basic home care instructions
Once at home, keeping the head elevated—even while sleeping—helps reduce swelling. Extra pillows usually make this easier. Eating soft foods and avoiding wide jaw movements may also bring more comfort. Pain medication is often prescribed, and in some cases, antibiotics help prevent infection.
First follow-up appointment
The first check-up usually happens two to three days after surgery. This visit allows the surgeon to evaluate how facelift recovery is progressing, check the bandages, and remove the drains if they were placed.
Any unusual signs such as fever, redness, or discharge from the incisions, should be reported right away.
Facelift recovery timeline week by week
Understanding what happens week by week during facelift recovery helps manage expectations and plan your return to regular activities.
Here’s a breakdown of what usually happens in the first month after surgery:
Days 1 to 3
- Swelling and bruising start becoming more visible
- Face may feel numb or tight
- Resting with the head elevated supports fluid drainage
- Cold compresses may offer relief if approved by the surgeon
- Prescription pain medication helps control discomfort
- Minimal movement is recommended
Days 4 to 7
- Swelling often peaks and then begins to decrease
- Bruises may start to change color as they heal
- Stitches or drains, if used, might be removed by the end of this phase
- Walking indoors may be allowed but without physical strain
- Most patients still prefer to stay home and limit face-to-face contact
- Hydration and light meals continue to support the body
Week 2
- Swelling and bruising keep improving
- Some patients feel ready for light work-from-home tasks
- Incisions may still look pink or slightly raised
- Face might appear uneven due to temporary swelling
- Avoid sun exposure and follow all skincare instructions
- This period still counts as active facelift recovery
Weeks 3 and 4
- Swelling continues to fade gradually
- Most bruising disappears or becomes easier to cover with makeup
- Facial tightness may persist but feels less noticeable
- Activities like walking outside, grocery shopping, or short outings may resume
- Exercise and full work routines still require surgeon approval
- Many patients feel socially presentable around week four
After one month
- Final follow-up consultations help evaluate healing progress
- Subtle residual swelling may remain, especially around the jawline
- Most people return to normal activities with confidence
- Results start becoming more visible, though not yet final
- This marks the transition from active to late facelift recovery
Facelift recovery do’s and don’ts
Following the right habits during facelift recovery supports a more comfortable healing process and reduces the risk of complications.
Here’s what patients often do—and avoid—after surgery:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Sleep with your head elevated | Lie flat while sleeping |
| Use cold compresses as directed | Apply heat to the face |
| Take medications exactly as prescribed | Skip doses or self-medicate |
| Keep incisions clean and dry | Rub or scratch incision areas |
| Eat soft, easy-to-chew foods | Eat foods that require wide jaw movement |
| Attend all post-op appointments | Miss follow-up visits |
| Wear loose clothing that doesn’t touch the face | Pull tight clothing over the head |
| Limit sun exposure | Go outside without sun protection |
| Ask for help with daily tasks | Try to lift heavy objects or strain |
Avoiding the wrong habits and maintaining simple routines can help guide a smoother facelift recovery. While individual instructions may vary, most surgeons recommend being cautious during the first few weeks.
Facelift recovery at Smart Plastic Surgery in Miami
Patients who choose Smart Plastic Surgery in Miami often receive guidance and support throughout every stage of facelift recovery. The clinic’s approach focuses on clear communication, safe healing, and personalized care.
After the procedure, the care team provides written and verbal instructions covering medications, dressing care, and activity restrictions. A direct line of contact stays available to address questions during the recovery phase.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled in advance to monitor the healing process. During these visits, the surgical team checks for signs of progress and adjusts care plans if needed. This level of attention helps reduce anxiety and creates a more predictable facelift recovery timeline.
Scheduling a consultation at Smart Plastic Surgery offers the opportunity to review treatment goals and ask specific questions about the facelift recovery process.
The clinic is located in Miami, FL, and welcomes patients from across the U.S. seeking professional and attentive care.
