Facelift Recovery Timeline: What to Expect from Day 1 to 90 in Virginia, Washington D.C. and Maryland.

Phase 1: Days 1–2 – The First 48 Hours

The first two days after your facelift are all about rest and managing the basics. You’ll likely feel tired, sore, and a little out of it — that’s totally normal.

What to expect:

• Swelling and bruising, especially around your cheeks and jaw
• A tight, numb feeling in your face
• Low energy and possible grogginess from the anesthesia

How you might feel:
Don’t be surprised if you feel a bit down. It’s common to look in the mirror and think, “What have I done?” This is a natural part of the process — and it passes quickly.

Helpful tips:

• Keep your head propped up, even while sleeping
• Use cold compresses to ease swelling
• Take your meds on time — don’t try to tough it out
• Stick to soft foods and drink lots of water

Good to know:
This is the toughest part for many people. The swelling is temporary. The worry is temporary. Focus on rest — healing starts here.

Why Choose The Naderi Center : With Dr. Jessica Kulak’s expertise, you’ll have access to a highly tailored aftercare plan to ensure your first days of recovery go smoothly and stress-free.

Phase 2: Days 3–7 – Swelling Peaks & Healing Starts

This is the part of recovery where things may look and feel their worst — but it’s also when healing truly begins.

What to expect:

• Swelling usually peaks around days 3 to 4. Your face might look puffy or uneven — especially in the mornings.
• Bruising may darken or spread before it starts fading.
• You might feel tightness, heaviness, or a dull ache around your face and neck.
• Your energy may still be low, and sleeping comfortably can be tricky.

How you might feel:
This is the stretch when many patients feel frustrated or discouraged. It’s easy to think something’s wrong — but this stage is temporary. You’re not alone, and you’re not healing “wrong.” Swelling and unevenness are normal.

Helpful tips:

• Keep resting, and avoid bending, lifting, or household chores.
• Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious, soft foods.
• Avoid mirrors if they upset you — your face won’t stay like this.
• Stay consistent with head elevation and medications.
• Don’t miss your follow-up appointment — it helps catch any concerns early and gives you peace of mind.

Good to know:
By the end of this week, most people feel a small but noticeable shift — less discomfort, more confidence. It’s not the finish line, but it’s a major milestone.

Early healing is when you’ll appreciate the meticulous care and precision of Dr. Jessica Kulak’s work. His attention to detail ensures that your results will meet—and exceed—your expectations.

Phase 3: Week 2 – Stitches Out & Confidence Returning

This week, things start to really improve. You’ll still have some swelling and bruising, but it’s getting better every day.

What to expect:

• Your face won’t be as puffy, but you might still look swollen in the morning.
• Bruises will fade and change color — from dark purple to yellow or green.
• Stitches usually come out this week, which feels like a big step forward.
• Your skin might still feel tight or numb in spots. That’s totally normal.

How you might feel:
You’ll probably feel more like yourself. You may still worry about how your face looks — that’s okay. Most people do. Just remember: healing takes time, and you’re doing great.

Helpful tips:

• It’s okay to take short walks or go back to work if it’s not physical.
• Keep washing your face gently and using doctor-approved products.
• Don’t start exercising yet — even if you feel fine.
• Stay out of the sun or use sunscreen if you go outside.

Good to know:
Many people feel okay going out in public again around this time. You’re not fully healed, but you’re past the hardest part — and you’ll keep seeing small improvements every day.

Phase 4: Weeks 3–4 – Back to Your Normal Routine

By now, most people feel ready to return to their regular routines. You might still have a little swelling, but it’s usually not something others notice.

What to expect:

• Swelling keeps going down, and your face looks more like “you” again.
• Some numbness or tightness may still be there, but it should be improving.
• You’ll feel more confident going to work, seeing friends, or being out in public.

How you might feel:
This is when many people start feeling better, but also a little impatient. You might wonder, “Should I be healing faster?” The truth is, everyone heals at their own pace — you’re exactly where you need to be.

Helpful tips:

• You can go back to work or social events, but don’t overdo it.
• Avoid heavy lifting or hard workouts — your body’s still healing.
• Gentle walks and light movement are great for circulation.
• Wear sunscreen and avoid too much sun — your skin is still sensitive.

Good to know:
Most people around you won’t even notice you had surgery — they’ll just say you look well-rested or refreshed. You’re not done healing yet, but you’re getting close.

Phase 5: Month 2–3 – Seeing the Final Results

At this stage, most of the healing is done. You’ll see the full results of your facelift starting to shine through.

What to expect:

• Most or all of the swelling is gone.
• Your face will feel more natural, and tightness should be much better.
• Any numb spots may still take a little longer to go away — that’s normal.

How you might feel:
You’ll probably feel proud and more confident by now. Looking in the mirror feels exciting again. You might forget how you looked before — and that’s a good sign!

Helpful tips:

• Stick with your healthy habits — rest, good food, and skincare help your results last.
• Keep using doctor-recommended creams or sunscreen.
• Check in with your surgeon if anything feels off or you have questions.

Good to know:
By the end of month three, most people say their face looks smooth, fresh, and natural — not “overdone.” You’ll still improve a little more over time, but the biggest healing is behind you.

Phase 6: Month 3+ – Long-Term Results & Maintenance

After three months, your facelift is mostly healed — and now it’s all about keeping your results looking great.

What to expect:

• Your face should feel normal again — no more swelling or tightness.
• Any last numbness may slowly fade over the next few months.
• Your new look will feel more natural every day.

How you might feel:
This is when most people stop thinking about recovery and just enjoy feeling like themselves again — but fresher. You’ll get compliments that don’t even mention surgery. You just look… better.

Helpful tips:

• Stay healthy: eat well, stay active, and don’t smoke.
• Keep up with good skincare — including sunscreen every day.
• Visit your doctor if you want to talk about maintenance or touch-ups in the future.

Good to know:
Your facelift results can last for many years, especially if you take care of your skin and overall health. You’ve put time, money, and trust into this journey — and now you get to enjoy the results every time you look in the mirror.