01Featured perspective
D
Dr. Amanda Rodriguez
Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon, MD, FACS
Here's an honest facelift recovery timeline: Days 1-3: The hardest part. Swelling, bruising, tightness. You'll sleep propped up and take pain medication. Week 1: Bruising peaks around day 3-5, then starts improving. Drains removed day 1-2, sutures around day 7-10. Week 2: Most bruising can be covered with makeup. Swelling still present but improving. Many patients venture out. Weeks 3-4: Return to non-strenuous work. Swelling continues to resolve. Week 6+: Resume normal activities including exercise. Months 2-3: Final results emerging. The key: Plan for 2 weeks of real downtime, and know that each day gets noticeably better.