At the Hilger Face Center, our plastic surgeons provide high-quality, natural-looking results for patients interested in facelift surgery.
What is a facelift?
A facelift (or rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic surgical procedure done to improve signs of aging in your face and neck, including unwanted deep wrinkles, jowls, and sagging or drooping skin. This procedure is individualized and unique to each person based on their anatomy and aesthetic goals. A consultation with your surgeon will be performed to determine how best to achieve a youthful and natural looking result.
What is recovery like after a facelift?
If you are considering a facelift, it is important to be familiar with what to expect during the recovery process and also understand that each person’s healing timeline is unique. Following your procedure, you can expect bruising and swelling that peaks around day three to four and can last for two to three weeks. In addition, you may experience numbness, tingling, or a feeling of tightness.
After the procedure
You will have multiple visits following your procedure. At the conclusion of your procedure, a head wrap will be placed in the operating room. The day after your surgery, you will have your first follow-up visit to have those surgical dressings (and drains, if applicable) removed and incisions evaluated; A lighter dressing will be placed and incision cares will be reviewed. Sutures that are placed during the procedure will be removed 7-10 days after your surgery. You will then continue to be seen by your surgeon and their staff so your healing progress can be followed.
The first few days after your facelift should be spent resting. Light activities like walking are encouraged, but any strenuous activity should be avoided for the first few weeks. Prescription pain medication can be used for discomfort, but is usually only needed in the first couple of days, if at all. Most people feel comfortable returning to work and normal activities around 2-3 weeks after surgery, though you may still have some residual swelling, tightness, and bruising.
Schedule a facelift consultation at the Hilger Face Center
A facelift is a great procedure to restore a natural, more youthful appearance.
To get more information about rhytidectomy (facelift or neck lift) and what to expect during recovery, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our providers (Dr. Peter Hilger, Dr. Sofia Lyford-Pike, Dr. Jenna Van Beck), please call the Hilger Face Center in Edina, Minnesota at 952-844-0404.