Most people feel comfortable going out in public around two weeks after a mini facelift, and many return to desk-based work within 10 to 14 days. Bruising and swelling are most noticeable in the first week, the face continues to settle over three months, and the scars in front of and behind the ear mature over 12 months or more.
The first 48 hours
You will usually go home the same day or after one night, with a light head wrap or supportive dressing. Tightness around the jaw and ears is normal, and discomfort is generally controlled with simple painkillers. Rest with your head raised on two or three pillows and keep ice packs, wrapped in a cloth, to short sessions around the cheeks. Avoid bending, lifting and hot drinks that require wide mouth opening. Someone should stay with you for the first night. You will be given written instructions about any drains, which, if used, are usually removed the following day.
Week one
Swelling and bruising tend to peak around days two to four and then begin to fade. The face may look uneven because swelling is rarely symmetrical, and numbness in front of the ears and down the cheeks is expected. Stitches are usually removed between days five and ten. Gentle hair washing is typically allowed after the first review. Walk around the house several times a day to help circulation, but avoid strenuous activity. Keep the head elevated when sleeping and try to sleep on your back rather than your side.
Weeks two to six
By the second week most visible bruising has faded or can be concealed with make-up once the wounds have healed. Many people return to office work at this point, although a physically demanding job may need longer. Driving is usually possible once you can turn your head freely and are off strong painkillers, often around a week to ten days; check with your insurer. Light exercise such as walking can gradually increase, with more vigorous exercise, heavy lifting and hot yoga usually delayed until around four to six weeks. Avoid saunas and steam rooms during this period.
Three to twelve months
The face continues to soften as residual swelling settles, typically over about three months, and sensation gradually returns. Some firmness under the skin along the jaw can be felt for a few months. The scars start pink and slightly raised and then fade and flatten over 12 to 18 months. Mr Nassab will usually see you at planned intervals to check progress and scar maturation. Results are judged properly only once swelling has fully resolved.
Scar care
Once the wounds have healed, gentle massage and silicone gel or sheets may help the scars settle. Keep the scars out of direct sunlight and use a high-factor sunscreen for at least a year, because sun exposure can darken healing scars. Avoid colouring your hair until the wounds are fully healed, usually after around four weeks, and use gentle products around the ears.
Warning signs and who to call
Some tightness, swelling and bruising are normal. Contact the surgical team urgently if one side of the face or neck swells rapidly, becomes tense or very painful, as this can indicate a haematoma. Contact the team the same day if you develop a fever, spreading redness, discharge from the wounds or increasing pain. Sudden one-sided leg swelling or calf pain needs same-day advice from your GP or NHS 111, and chest pain or breathlessness requires a 999 call.
Helping your recovery
Stop smoking and nicotine products well before and after surgery, as nicotine reduces blood supply to the skin and increases wound-healing problems. Plan time off, arrange help at home, eat well and stay hydrated. Protect the ears from pressure from glasses or headphones in the early weeks. Mini facelift surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does swelling last after a mini facelift?
Visible swelling settles over about two weeks, with subtle swelling continuing to fade over roughly three months.
When is it usual to go back to work?
Many people return to desk-based work after 10 to 14 days. More physical jobs may need longer.
Is it normal for my cheeks to feel numb?
Yes. Numbness around the ears and cheeks is common and usually improves gradually over several months.
What is the best sleeping position after surgery?
Sleep on your back with your head raised for the first couple of weeks to help reduce swelling and protect the wounds.
When can make-up be worn?
Make-up can usually be worn away from the incisions within the first week, and over healed scars once the wounds have closed.
