The facelift recovery process is three-fold, involving your physical recovery, recovery of sensation in the face, and social recovery. Immediately after the procedure, you will most likely only have mild pain that fades after a couple of days. Any discomfort can be controlled with over-the-counter medications like Tylenol; stronger medications are not usually required. Although in case you need something stronger then Tylenol you will be given a prescription to a narcotic so that you remain pain free.
Bruising and swelling are to be expected during the initial stages of physical recovery. This should start to resolve by itself about 5 days after your procedure. By the 8th day, you should be able to apply makeup again. However, you will probably not feel totally comfortable sitting down with friends for a social date until around two weeks have passed. At this point, any bruising that remains can usually be covered well enough with makeup, and about 80% of the swelling should be gone.
You should avoid exercise until about four weeks after facelift surgery; otherwise, there is no need to limit your other activities. Some mild facial numbness is normal, and may take several months to resolve. However, each person heals at a different rate, and the length of your overall recovery will depend on the extent of your procedure. You may find that you feel comfortable resuming your social life earlier or later than most patients.
If you have further questions about facelift surgery, please contact JUVA Skin & Laser Center today or call (212) 688-5882 to schedule an initial consultation with our experienced Board Certified New York City facelift surgeon. We serve patients throughout New York City and Manhattan.
