When planning your facial plastic surgery, you’ll probably want to know how much time you’ll need to take off work and restrict physical activity.
Many people are surprised to learn just how easy recovery after a facelift can be. To get an idea of your day-by-day facelift recovery, take a look at this breakdown.
Week One
The first week after your facelift will be the most involved in terms of your recovery. If yours was an in-patient procedure, you’ll most likely be discharged around day two. Make sure you have someone lined up to drive you home and stay with you for the next day or so.
By the end of week one, your sutures should be removed and you should be able to move around more comfortably.
Week Two
[pullquote]Most people take 10 days to 2 weeks off work after a facelift.[/pullquote]
You may experience some bruising, swelling and tenderness, but these are normal side effects. Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling and keep your physical activity light.
Week Three
While you’ll probably still see some swelling and tightness, you should be able to head back to work and resume your normal social life by week three. You can apply makeup to help camouflage any bruising at this point, but still avoid strenuous exercise.
Week Four
About a month after facial plastic surgery, you should be able to resume more vigorous physical activity, under the guidance of your plastic surgeon. At this stage of recovery, other people shouldn’t be able to tell that you’ve had surgery.
