Getting facial restoration surgery can feel like a new lease on life. Patients report a better self-image after getting a facelift and the results that follow last for years after surgery.
But a facelift is still a surgical procedure, which can be worrisome for those who are concerned about recovery times. It’s true that facelifts have historically taken some time to recover from, which puts some people off of getting a facelift in order to eliminate wrinkles and sagging skin.
We’re here to answer the question: how long does it take to recover from a facelift, and what kind of results can you get from it?
If you’re looking for help recovering from cosmetic surgery, we have an article talking about foods to promote healing after cosmetic surgery.
What Is The Facelift Procedure Like?
The procedure is performed by repositioning facial tissue and facial muscles that have succumbed to the effects of aging and gravity. Aging causes skin to become less elastic, preventing the skin from staying in its original position. This excess skin is removed in order to give the face a more youthful appearance.
Every facelift is different, and it’s up to a skilled surgeon to perform the procedure in the way that will make you look the way you want to look. Some facelifts involve more skin removal than others, for example.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From a Facelift?
Depending on what you consider “recovery”, there could be several different answers. Generally, facelift patients will spend the night at the surgical center where they will recover from the acute effects of surgery and anesthesia. Some patients are able to go home the same day.
Afterward, patients are asked to take some time off regular activities such as work. You will need to sleep on your back to prevent further injury to the incisions. Stitches are removed over the following days and will need a little bit of time to heal.
Patients can generally return to work and other regular activities between 1-2 weeks after surgery. However, your face will not have achieved its final appearance by this time. There will still be some swelling and there may be some side effects that affect the way the face looks. For this reason, some patients choose not to attend big social events or make big public appearances for around two months after surgery.
When Will I See My Final Results?
You will see results immediately, but your “final” results (after swelling has gone down, bruising has gone away, and incisions have healed) will take around two months after surgery.
Some patients are concerned about scars; however, facelifts rarely have any noticeable scarring. It’s important to make sure that you avoid direct sunlight in order to prevent the incision scars from becoming more visible due to hyperpigmentation!
Looking to get a facelift in Las Vegas? LV Body Sculpting can help! Give us a call today to schedule a consultation!