How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Facelift?

A facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure to counter the visible effects of the ageing process, helping to achieve a more youthful look by tightening facial tissues and muscles. Over time, the natural ageing process causes skin to lose elasticity, and facial fat may shift or diminish, leading to sagging and wrinkles. A facelift addresses these changes by lifting and repositioning the underlying structures of the face, providing a refreshed appearance.

Recovery times vary, and several factors, such as the condition of your skin, the amount of facial fat involved and the overall complexity of the procedure, can influence healing.

If you're considering surgery but are wondering how long it takes to recover from a facelift, this blog will outline that and what factors can affect the recovery process.

How much downtime should I expect from facelift surgery?

On average, most patients will need around two to four weeks off before they can resume their regular activities. However, full recovery - where all swelling and bruising has faded - may take up to three months. These timelines vary by person depending on certain factors and can be more or less than these timings.

In the days following surgery, you will likely experience swelling, bruising and some discomfort, especially around the incisions. This is a natural part of the healing process. During the first two weeks, it’s important to prioritise rest, as this is when the bruising and swelling are most noticeable. You should avoid any strenuous activity during this time, such as exercise, heavy lifting or anything that puts pressure on the face for at least six weeks, as it could slow the healing process.

After the first two weeks, swelling and bruising should begin to reduce. Around this point, you can gradually start incorporating light activities back into your routine, though anything too demanding should still be avoided. Many patients find that by the third or fourth week, they can return to work or handle non-strenuous tasks.

The healing process will gradually continue - even after the six-week mark, you may still notice slight changes as your face continues to heal over the coming months.

What factors affect how long a facelift recovery takes?

Several factors can influence the speed and quality of your recovery after a facelift. These include the following:

• Type of facelift: the kind of facelift you undergo can greatly impact recovery. For instance, mini facelifts are often chosen by those who need subtle improvements, such as addressing loose skin in smaller areas, which typically means shorter recovery periods. This is because mini facelifts require fewer incisions and less tissue manipulation. On the other hand, more invasive procedures like deep-plane facelifts or neck lifts, which may be done to tackle sagging in the lower face or neck, involve more extensive work on the facial skin and muscles. As a result, they tend to come with longer recovery times due to the deeper surgical involvement.

• Age and general health: your age and general health also play a role in how quickly you recover. Older individuals, or those dealing with underlying health conditions, may experience a slower healing process. As skin loses elasticity with age, facial skin may take longer to settle post-surgery, particularly when dealing with residual swelling. Additionally, if you are a smoker, the impact on circulation and healing can further delay recovery, making it more difficult for the body to handle the effects of the surgery.

• Surgical technique: the method your surgeon uses can affect how long recovery takes. A skilled surgeon who handles the procedure with precision is more likely to minimise trauma to the tissues, leading to faster healing and less residual swelling. This can also reduce the appearance of scarring and help the facial skin adapt more quickly to its new contours. Techniques that limit disruption to the facial structure, such as a targeted neck lift or minimally invasive procedures, can help shorten downtime.

• Post-surgery care: the care you provide yourself after surgery has a direct impact on recovery. Following your surgeon’s advice on rest, wound care, and activity levels will support the healing process and prevent complications. Avoiding excessive exposure to UV light and limiting strenuous activities during the early stages can help reduce residual swelling and allow your facial skin to heal properly. Ignoring these guidelines or rushing back to regular activities too soon can prolong recovery and increase the risk of issues such as infection or poor scar formation.

What are the signs something has gone wrong?

While facelift surgery typically goes ahead without complications, there is always the potential for risks. If you experience any of the following signs, they may indicate a problem that requires medical attention.

• Excessive swelling or bruising: some swelling and bruising are to be expected, but if it doesn’t start to improve after a week or worsens, it could indicate an infection or internal bleeding.

• Severe pain: while discomfort is normal, severe or persistent pain that doesn’t subside with medication could be a sign of complications.

• Fluid discharge: yellow or green discharge from the incision sites or a foul smell may indicate an infection.

• Fever or redness: a fever or increasing redness around the incision areas could also suggest an infection, which needs to be addressed quickly.

• Numbness or changes in skin sensation: temporary numbness is common after a facelift, but if it persists or worsens over time, it may be a sign of nerve damage.

What can I do if I've had a negative outcome from my facelift?

If your facelift results have not met your expectations or complications have arisen, it's important to take swift action to address the issue. Although very minor swelling and discomfort are normal after surgery, persistent problems may indicate a negative outcome. Here’s what you can do:

• Consult with your surgeon: your first step should always be to return to the surgeon who performed the procedure. During a follow-up facelift consultation, you can discuss your concerns in detail. The surgeon may prescribe pain medication if you're still experiencing discomfort and could suggest revision surgery or other corrective treatments, depending on the issue.

• Seek a second opinion: if you’re not confident in your original surgeon’s advice or feel that your concerns aren't being fully addressed, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion. Consulting another cosmetic surgeon can provide you with an independent assessment of the situation and additional options for resolving the issue.

• Explore legal options: if you believe that negligence or surgical error contributed to your negative outcome, it’s worth exploring whether you have grounds for a legal claim. In cases where poor surgical technique, inadequate aftercare, or failure to properly inform you of risks during your facelift consultation has led to complications, a solicitor specialising in cosmetic surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors can guide you through the process of seeking compensation.

Contact us

If you believe you've suffered as a result of negligent facelift surgery, our team at Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors is here to help. Our solicitors specialise in handling cosmetic surgery claims and can provide the support and legal expertise you need when seeking the compensation you deserve. Call 0808 296 5720 or request a callback by completing the contact form.