Facelift

Recovery from a facelift can be uncomfortable, particularly in the first one to two weeks, but significant pain is not common. Since the procedure is performed under anesthesia, you won’t feel anything during surgery. However, as the anesthesia wears off, you may experience mild to moderate discomfort, along with swelling, bruising, and a sensation of tightness in the skin.

Most patients describe the feeling as soreness or tenderness rather than sharp pain. Prescription or over-the-counter pain medication can effectively manage any discomfort, and keeping the head elevated helps reduce swelling. Most of the discomfort subsides by the second week, and many patients find they no longer need pain medication.

You’ll start with a consultation, an essential part of the facelift journey. Then, you’ll have your pre-operative appointment, surgery, and several follow-up appointments. The pre-operative appointment ensures you’re medically cleared to proceed. Dr. Somenek may also take before photos and finalize the details of the surgery with you at this time. Your follow-up appointments will be used to remove sutures, if necessary, and to monitor your healing progress.

It typically takes several weeks to months for the full results of a facelift to become visible. Immediately following the procedure, swelling and bruising will be prominent, with the most noticeable swelling subsiding within the first 2 to 3 weeks. By the 4- to 6-week mark, patients begin to see a more defined appearance as residual swelling continues to fade. However, it can take up to 6 months for all subtle swelling and tissue adjustments to fully settle, revealing the final, refined results. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following post-operative care instructions will facilitate the healing process and help ensure a long-lasting result.

Facelift incisions are placed along the face’s natural contours to minimize visible scarring, typically within the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes under the chin, depending on the technique used. Initially, scars may appear slightly pink or raised, but they will gradually fade over time. Most patients find that by the 6-month mark, scars have significantly softened and blended into the surrounding skin. With proper post-operative care, including sun protection and scar treatments recommended by Dr. Somenek, scars become barely noticeable.

After your facial rejuvenation surgery in Washington, DC, patients are advised to avoid exercise for at least 4 to 6 weeks following a facelift to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Light walking can typically be resumed within the first week to promote circulation, but activities that elevate blood pressure, such as running, weightlifting, or intense cardio, should be avoided until cleared by Dr. Somenek.

Resuming exercise too soon can increase swelling, prolong healing, or even lead to complications like bleeding. Around the 4-week mark, many patients can gradually reintroduce low-impact activities, with a full return to regular exercise usually permitted after 6 weeks.

Many patients combine neck lift surgeries with their facelift, which addresses sagging skin and muscle laxity in the neck, often referred to as a “turkey neck.” They may also include eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) to reduce puffiness and drooping around the eyes, which is often combined with a facelift. Additionally, brow lifts can help elevate the brows and smooth forehead wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Combining procedures can efficiently reduce overall recovery time and achieve a more harmonious facial aesthetic in a single surgical session. However, it is recommended that you consult with an experienced facial plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Somenek, who can assess your goals and determine the safest and most effective combination for your specific needs.

Common side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, numbness, and tightness, which gradually subside over the weeks following your facial plastic surgery. However, more serious risks, although uncommon, can include hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin), infection, poor wound healing, or nerve injury that affects facial movement or sensation.

Patients who smoke, have certain medical conditions, or do not follow post-operative care instructions may face an increased risk of complications. To minimize risks, it’s essential to choose an experienced surgeon, follow all pre- and post-operative guidelines, and attend follow-up appointments.

Finding the best facelift surgeon in Washington, D.C., requires careful research to ensure you select a highly qualified and reputable expert. Begin by seeking a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who specializes in facelift procedures, as this certification indicates advanced training and expertise in facial aesthetics. Reviewing before-and-after photos of previous facelift patients can also give insight into a surgeon’s skill and ability to create natural-looking results.

Additionally, patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into the surgeon’s bedside manner, surgical outcomes, and overall experience. The best facelift surgeons prioritize patient safety, employ techniques that minimize scarring and recovery time, and tailor each procedure to the patient’s unique facial structure.