The average recovery time is approximately ten to fourteen days before returning to work.  Most plastic surgeons recommend avoiding strenuous activity for two weeks or more.  Also, if you have a demanding occupation, you may need to wait longer before going back to your job.  Patients can expect there to be bruising, which will heal within two to three weeks.  Plastic surgeons recommend patients should avoid alcohol, steam baths and saunas for several months following surgery.  Also, patients must limit exposure to sun for several months as well.  Many plastic surgeons recommend cessation of smoking before and after the procedure due to smoking’s impairment on wound healing.

Follow Up With a Facelift Surgeon

You will want to follow up with your surgeon to prevent a complication from occurring such as post-operative bleeding or infection.  Complications are important to prevent because they delay the healing process and will may it less likely that you will be happy with the final result.  When you will return to work after surgery depends on how quickly the healing process occurs.

Factors That Help Facelift Recovery

• Cessation of smoking before and after surgery.
• Avoidance of sun exposure.
• Genetics of the patient.
• Patient is well rested and not stressed out.
• Proper wound care.
• Appropriate follow up with surgeon or other supervising board certified doctor.
• Promptly treating infections when and if they arise.

Please consult your board certified, licensed plastic surgeon on when it is appropriate to return to work following surgery.