If you are looking for a real, effective solution for visible signs of aging a facelift is certainly the ideal procedure. However, people considering facelift surgery are often unsure about the recovery time. Recovery from facelift surgery is quicker and more comfortable than it once was, thanks to the advances made in cosmetic surgery.
Facelift Surgery
A facelift or rhytidectomy typically addresses sagging skin in the lower third of the face, as well as wrinkles around the nose and mouth. There are a variety of facelift procedures now being offered, so surgery can be customized to satisfy the aesthetic goals of each patient.
How long is recovery from a facelift?
Depending on the extent of the procedure, recovery from facelift surgery can take 1-2 weeks.
Recovery from a traditional or full facelift typically takes longer than recovery from a mid-facelift. A traditional facelift addresses aging in the cheek area, neck and jawline, whereas the mid-facelift targets the midsection of the face, i.e. the lower eyelids, cheeks, and corner of the mouth. Since the mid-facelift is less invasive, there is less swelling and bruising after surgery. Consequently, patients are often able to return to work after one week.
What to expect after surgery
Most patients have bruising and swelling after facelift surgery, but the majority of the swelling resolves within 7-14 days. There may also be some facial numbness, which will gradually diminish over several weeks. Pain medication is usually prescribed for the first 2-3 days, to ease any discomfort.
Would you like to learn more about recovery from a facelift? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you are in the New York, NY area, Specialty Aesthetic Surgery is our featured practice.
You can reach them at www.specialtyaestheticsurgery.com or by calling (212) 737-8700.