Wondering what to expect during the facelift recovery period? Here are answers to the most common questions our patients ask about facelift surgery recovery.

How long does it take to recover from facelift surgery?

For a traditional facelift, at-home recovery time is around 10-14 days. For the mini facelift, neck lift, and neck liposuction, the standard at-home recovery time is 7 days. By 7-14 days, all sutures are out and bruising has generally disappeared.

Is facelift recovery painful?

A dull ache around the ears and tightness around the jaw and neck can be expected for the first night after surgery but reduces significantly each day thereafter. Most patients transition from opiate medication to regular Tylenol within the first week. The feeling of tightness decreases over the course of a few weeks.

How long does swelling and bruising last?

Most of the swelling and bruising subsides within 2 weeks. By 6 weeks after surgery 90% will be gone and the remaining 10% slowly diminishes over the following months. Eventually all swelling and bruising will go away.

When can I go back to work/socializing?

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work within 2 weeks after their surgery. However, if you have an active job you may need to take additional time off, as any lifting or intense activity may cause a rise in blood pressure which can worsen swelling and slow the healing process. As for socializing, it is best to initially only associate with close family or friends who will be supportive and positive.

Do I need to follow a specific diet after my surgery?

For the first week post-surgery, a soft diet is best. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol intake and do not smoke. Caffeine is okay as long as the amount is not dramatically different from what you are used to.

When can I start exercising again?

No heavy lifting or strenuous activity should be done for at least 2 weeks but full activity can be resumed 1 month after surgery.

When can I start wearing makeup again?

Makeup should not be applied over incisions until 2-4 weeks after surgery. We always recommend fragrance-free, hypoallergenic mineral based powders. To conceal bruising, we recommend a thick makeup base or concealer with a yellow base.

What our patients have said about their facelift surgery experience:

"I had a SMAS mini face lift in December, 2019. Dr. Patel was thorough in his review and assessment of my face and neck. He did not pressure me into doing more than what I was comfortable with. I knew immediately that Dr. Patel’s solution was the best one for me. It was less invasive than the full-face lift and had less down time. I completely understood what kind of results I would get. I felt confident in doing the procedure and had no hesitation that I had picked the best facial plastic surgeon available. I had complete confidence in Dr. Patel. The procedure went well, I experienced little to no pain. My biggest problem was managing my anxiety. I never had surgery before. Dr. Patel and his staff were great about getting back to me and putting me at ease. My results exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Dr Patel. He is kind, caring, concerned, honest, and down to earth. His nurse Kathy is wonderful and Katlyn his office assistance is lovely."

"I wanted to tighten my jawline and neck because I was extremely unhappy with how old I was looking. I went to a plastic surgeon in the Minneapolis area and he told me I needed a full face lift, brow lift, chin implant, botox, fillers - the whole works. It all added up to $25,000. I didn't think I needed ALL that and left his consultation quite depressed. I decided to get a second opinion and found Dr. Patel. He told me all I needed was a mini face lift and that he results would be fantastic. I said, "What about the brow lift, fillers and chin implant?" He said I didn't need any of it. He said he wouldn't do any work on my face that wasn't needed and he was very concerned that I look natural. I put all my trust in him and I'm now 10 days post surgery and I couldn't be happier. I look and feel fantastic. I know it will only get better in the next few months. Dr. Patel is a true artist. I'm glad I did my research and went to a FACIAL double board certified plastic surgeon. No regrets at all. He is the best. His staff is also wonderful. They will answer all questions and take all the time you need to feel comfortable."

Considering facelift surgery?

Dr. Anand Patel specializes in surgical and nonsurgical treatments for the face and neck. He is double board certified with the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and American Board of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery. Visit our facelift information page to learn more about the procedure and his techniques.