A face lift is a surgical procedure and therefore just like any surgical procedure there will be a necessary recovery time. When deciding on having a facelift performed, one of the most important items that you must take into consideration when deciding is that of the recovery period. In general, after you have your facelift, the surgeon will bandage up you face with the proper sterile dressings that will also need to be replaced at regular intervals to prevent any possible infections. These bonds not only help in the fight against infections but will also assist in the reduction of swelling and bruising. Behind your ear, there will be a drain tube to allow the excess fluid created by the body to flow out from under the skin.

You may also be given various pain medications as a surgical face lift recovery can be painful. In general, this entire healing process will take several weeks. In the first couple of days, you will notice the most amount of swelling. You will see bruises and swelling for up to two weeks after the procedure. You will need to keep your head elevated and try not to move around too much to help speed up the process.

You will most likely be allowed to go out for short periods of time after the first few days when the surgeon says that you can begin to use make-up to hide the blemishes while they are visible. You will notice some numbness of the face as well during this time.

Chances are, the surgeon will schedule you for a follow up after about 5 to 10 days so he or she can remove your stitches. Above all it is important to refrain from doing anything that can put strain on your face, this includes things like stress, laughing or frowning. Agitating the facial skin immediately following the surgery will lengthen the recovery period. If you can refrain from doing anything at all other than watch television, it is possible for the face to be ready for its grand debut in about 7 days, but if you go out and about or agitate the healing process, it can take as much as 2 or 3 weeks before you can show the world your new-old look.

In all reality, the recovery period of a face lift is entirely up to you and your ability to rest and stay relaxed for the time till your face is ready. Other things like your body’s immune system may also impede your recovery time. Check with your surgeon to ensure you understand how much time you will need to set aside for a full healthy recovery from you face lift.