After a facelift, most people feel comfortable going out in public at around two weeks and are ready for social events at three to four weeks. Full exercise usually resumes at around six weeks, and the final result is typically judged at six to twelve months. Recovery varies, particularly after deep plane or combined procedures, so always follow your surgeon’s instructions.
The first 48 hours
A facelift is usually performed under general anaesthetic, often with one night in hospital. You may wake with a padded dressing or chin strap and sometimes small drains. The face and neck will feel tight, swollen and numb. Discomfort is usually moderate and controlled with regular pain relief. Keep your head raised on several pillows, avoid bending forward and keep your blood pressure steady by resting, avoiding straining and taking any prescribed medication. The risk of bleeding (haematoma) is highest in the first 24 hours.
Week 1
Swelling and bruising usually peak around days two to three, then begin to settle. The face may look uneven or lumpy, which is expected at this stage. Drains and dressings are usually removed within the first few days, and some stitches around the ears are removed at around one week. Eat soft foods if chewing feels tight, avoid turning your neck sharply, and do not apply heat or ice directly to numb skin without advice.
Weeks 2–3
Bruising fades considerably and many people are comfortable being seen in public, using make-up to cover remaining discolouration once wounds have healed. Tightness, numbness around the cheeks and ears, and swelling in the neck are common. Many return to desk-based or home working at around two weeks, and social events are often manageable from about three weeks.
Weeks 4–6
Most visible swelling has settled, though subtle swelling and firmness can remain, especially along the jawline and neck. Light exercise can gradually be reintroduced. Hair colouring is usually avoided until the scalp wounds have fully healed, often around four to six weeks.
3 months and beyond
The face continues to soften and settle for six to twelve months. Sensation around the ears and cheeks gradually returns over several months. Scars in front of and behind the ears are usually pink at first and fade over 12–18 months. A facelift aims to refresh the face, but natural ageing continues, and sun protection, not smoking and good skincare help maintain the result.
Returning to work, driving, exercise and flying
- Work: desk-based work is often possible at around two weeks; public-facing roles may prefer two to three weeks.
- Driving: usually from around one to two weeks, once you can turn your head fully to check blind spots and are off strong pain relief.
- Exercise: gentle walking from day one; light exercise from about three to four weeks; full exercise, including bending and heavy lifting, from around six weeks if your surgeon agrees.
- Flying: usually avoided for at least one to two weeks, and longer for long-haul travel. Discuss plans with Mr Nassab.
Garments, dressings and sleeping position
Your surgeon may ask you to wear a soft compression garment or chin strap for part of the day for the first week or two. Keep wounds clean as instructed and avoid applying creams to incisions until advised. Sleep on your back with your head raised on two or three pillows for at least the first two weeks to reduce swelling. Avoid sleeping on your side until your surgeon says it is safe.
Warning signs – when to call the clinic or seek urgent care
- Call 999: chest pain, sudden breathlessness, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or collapse.
- Contact the clinic immediately, or A&E out of hours: rapidly increasing swelling, tightness or pain on one side of the face or neck, which may indicate a haematoma; or bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure.
- Contact the clinic the same day: fever, spreading redness, discharge from a wound, skin turning dark or blistering, or new weakness of facial movement.
- Mention at your review: persistent lumps, asymmetry or slow-to-return sensation.
Tips for a smoother recovery
- Stop nicotine: smoking and vaping significantly increase the risk of skin healing problems after a facelift.
- Control blood pressure: take regular medication as prescribed and avoid straining, bending and heavy lifting early on.
- Wear front-opening tops: avoid pulling clothes over your head for the first couple of weeks.
- Plan your diary: allow at least two to three weeks before important events.
- Protect from the sun: use high-factor sunscreen and a hat while scars mature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does bruising last after a facelift?
Bruising usually peaks in the first few days and fades considerably over two weeks, although faint discolouration can last a little longer.
Is recovery longer after a deep plane facelift?
Recovery is broadly similar, but swelling can take longer to settle fully. Mr Nassab will explain what to expect for the technique recommended for you.
When can I wear make-up after a facelift?
Make-up can usually be used away from the incisions after about a week, and over healed scars once your surgeon confirms they have closed.
Why does my face feel numb after a facelift?
Small sensory nerves in the skin are disturbed during surgery. Numbness around the cheeks and ears is expected and usually improves gradually over several months.
Who can have a facelift?
Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over. A facelift is best suited to people in good general health who do not smoke and have realistic expectations.
