What to Expect When Recovering from a Facelift

If you’re unhappy with how your face is aging, a facelift (rhytidectomy) might be the answer to your problems. A facelift can help combat the signs of aging and address the following concerns:

• Hanging, loose skin around your jawline and neck.
• Deep creases around your nose and mouth.

Some people may be concerned that a facelift will result in an unnatural “windblown” appearance, but Dr. Correa’s experience and skill minimizes pain and scarring and leaves you looking younger without looking overdone. In the hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Correa, the aging process won’t take over your youthful appearance.

Timeline for Recovery

Recovery time depends on a patient’s age, health status, and specific procedure desired. Patients are usually able to return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks but should wait approximately one month before engaging in any strenuous exercise. Limiting sun exposure and living a healthy lifestyle will help preserve results.

Week One

Postoperative incision care is extremely important for preventing infection. Supportive friends or family will need to drive you home and help out the first night. Bruising and swelling reach their height during the first few days, but are likely to be present for several more weeks. Continue to take pain medication as needed. You should be able to resume light housework by the end of week one.

Week Two

In some cases, the swelling and bruising around the treatment area cause numbness or tingling. None of these common occurrences should be cause for concern. At the end of two weeks, you may be ready to return to more strenuous daily activities.

Weeks Three & Four

You will begin to see real improvements in your facial contours and can resume exercising and normal activities by the end of the first month. Incision sites will have a pinkish-red hue, but any other noticeable signs of your procedure are minimal. Patients who take the necessary precautions and follow recommended postoperative care instructions experience the easiest recoveries and best outcomes. Communication between you and Dr. Correa is encouraged, from questions you have to symptoms you feel are abnormal.

Facelift Consultations Available

Am I A Good Candidate?

As with any major surgery, a facelift procedure poses risks. Certain medical conditions or lifestyle habits can increase these risks. You should disclose to Dr. Correa if you are taking blood-thinning medications or supplements, have a condition that prevents blood clotting, are a heavy smoker, or have a history of repeated weight gain and loss.

Ready to Move Forward?

Whether you’re on the fence or ready to move forward, you’ll benefit from a consultation with Correa Plastic Surgery. We will discuss all the details of the procedure and let you know if you’re a good candidate. Dr. Correa can answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide a customized treatment plan. If you’re looking for uncompromising results, schedule your consultation today. Dr. Correa was great. I was recommended to see Dr. Correa by my sister, who had a procedure done with him. His office and staff was really nice and his work was excellent.

Take the Next Step

Interested in learning more about Facelift procedures? Schedule your free consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Correa by filling out the form on this page or by calling Correa Plastic Surgery at (281) 918-8803. Proudly serving patients in The Woodlands & Houston, TX. *Individual results may vary.