Facelift FAQ

Will I have to have general anesthesia?

Not necessarily. Many surgeons perform face lifts under local anesthesia with sedation that has fewer side effects. Depending on the length of the procedure and the comfort of the patient, both are options.

How much pain will I have?

Most patients report very mild discomfort after surgery. Swelling and feelings of tightness can be treated with prescribed medication or over-the-counter pain medicine.

When can I shower?

It is important to keep the sutures dry after surgery at least 4-5 days. Take baths and use damp clothes to wipe the face clean.

When can I expect to return to work?

The amount of recovery time varies by the individual, but doctors recommend at least 10-14 days before resuming any strenuous activity. Swelling and bruising may take 3 weeks to subside.

How long before I can return to exercise and sports?

Aerobic exercise and other activities that raise blood pressure could increase recovery time so it should be avoided for at least 3 weeks following surgery.

When will I see results?

Some of the effects will be immediate but it will take 3 weeks for swelling to subside and show results. Patients will see improvements throughout the next several weeks.

Will it be obvious to everyone that I’ve had a face lift?

A professional surgeon has the skills to leave few or no signs of surgery while giving a youthful appearance. Most people will remark how well-rested and rejuvenated you look.

Will I look pulled “too tight”?

Skilled surgeons make people look younger not tighter. However, dramatic weight loss after surgery can cause the eyes to look sunken. Be within 15-25 pounds of your ideal weight before surgery.

Will there be scars?

Immediately after surgery there will be swelling and redness around the sutures that many people cover with hairstyles during healing. Scars are rare but could possibly occur, especially by the ears. Avoid exposure to the sun to reduce the risk of scarring.

Does a face lift remove acne scars?

The procedure removes many wrinkles and sagging skin but it does not maintain the tension to remove acne scars.

How long can results be expected to last?

Results of a face lift vary by the individual but many see results last between 5 and 10 years or longer.

Will I have to have repeat procedures?

The natural aging process can cause skin to sag again over time so some may opt for a second procedure a decade later.

Susan Rogers

For Susan Rogers, the idea that there must be more to life than waking up, going to work, coming home, and going through it all again tomorrow led her leave her safe job in a health care center for the uncertain world of freelance writing. What she was going to write about was a given. The same interest in health and fitness had led to the job in the health care center originally. So these days she wakes up, heads into her home office, and writes…..