What’s Normal and How to Manage It – Swelling after Facelift
If you’re considering a facelift, you probably have many questions—not just about the procedure itself, but also about the recovery process. Will it hurt? How long will it take to recover? What should you expect regarding swelling after the facelift?
In simple terms, a facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that aims to reduce visible signs of ageing in the face and neck. During a facelift, Dr Kernohan lifts and tightens the facial tissues, removing excess skin and smoothing out the wrinkles and folds.
There many types of facelifts including:
Full Facelift: This is a complex procedure, addressing the mid-face, jowls, and neck.
Mid-Facelift: The focus is on the cheeks and under-eye areas.
Lower Facelift: This targets the bottom third of the face, including the jowls and neck.
Mini Facelift: A less invasive option with a shorter recovery time, recommended for those with mild to moderate signs of ageing.
During your consultation, Dr Michael Kernohan will engage in a detailed discussion about your goals, conduct a thorough examination of your facial structure, and provide recommendations for the most suitable approach to meet your needs.
How Bad is the Swelling after Facelift Surgery?
Now that we’ve covered the fundamental aspects of a facelift procedure, let’s address a topic that is invariably on every patient’s mind: post-operative swelling. If you’re considering a facelift, you may be curious about the noticeable facial swelling that typically occurs after the procedure. Rest assured, this is an entirely normal part of the healing process.
Swelling following a facelift is a natural physiological response, akin to other innate bodily functions. It serves as your body’s method of signalling that a significant change has occurred and that the healing process is underway. To better understand the underlying processes, let’s examine the factors contributing to post-operative swelling:
The Inflammatory Response: When surgical intervention disturbs your tissues, your body initiates a protective inflammatory response. This response triggers the dilation of blood vessels in the affected area, increasing blood flow to the surgical site. This enhanced circulation delivers essential fluids, immune cells, and nutrients essential for healing, resulting in visible swelling.
Fluid Accumulation: Accompanying the increased blood flow is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid – a clear, colourless liquid that plays a vital role in fighting infection. This fluid build up significantly contributes to the observed puffiness.
Tissue Manipulation: During a facelift, Dr Kernohan manipulates your facial tissues. This necessary manipulation inevitably causes some degree of trauma to the tissues, leading to swelling as part of the natural healing process.
Gravitational Effects: It’s important to note that gravity continues to exert its influence post-surgery. Fluid naturally pools in the lower regions of your face due to gravitational pull, which explains why you may notice more pronounced swelling in your cheeks and neck area.
You might wonder why such significant swelling is necessary. The swelling provides a protective cushion around the healing tissues, safeguarding them as they reconnect and regenerate. It’s essentially your body’s way of creating a protective environment for optimal healing.
Different factors can influence the extent of swelling you may experience:
Scope of the Procedure: A complex facelift typically results in more pronounced swelling compared to a less extensive procedure. This difference is analogous to undertaking a complete home renovation versus a simple room refresh – the more extensive the work, the more significant the aftermath.
Individual Healing Response: Each person’s body responds uniquely to surgery. Some patients may experience more noticeable swelling, while others may have minimal puffiness. This variability is similar to how individuals react differently to environmental factors like sun exposure.
Age and Overall Health: Generally, younger patients and those in good overall health may experience less swelling and a faster recovery.
Post-Operative Care: Adhering to Dr Kernohan’s post-operative instructions can significantly impact the extent and duration of swelling.
It’s important to keep in mind that swelling is both a normal and necessary component of the healing process.
What to Expect: Normal Swelling Timeline
Now that we understand why swelling occurs, let’s talk about what you can expect in the days, weeks, and months following your facelift. Remember, everyone’s healing journey is unique, but this timeline will give you a general idea of what to anticipate.
Immediate Post-Operative Period (1-3 Days)
In the first few days after your surgery, you may experience sensations akin to those felt after significant physical exertion. Your face will be bandaged, and you might feel a sense of tightness or discomfort. It’s important to note that if you observe a noticeably swollen appearance in the mirror, this is entirely normal.
During these initial days, you may experience:
Peak swelling, particularly prominent around the ocular and malar regions
Potential bruising
A sensation of tightness or numbness
First Week
As you progress into the first week, you’ll likely begin to observe some improvements. The swelling will start to subside, though it’s important to maintain realistic expectations at this early stage of the healing process.
You may notice:
A gradual reduction in swelling, typically beginning in the upper facial region
Changes in the colouration of any bruising (a normal part of the healing process)
Increased mobility in your facial expressions
Weeks 2-4
This period often marks an important point in the recovery process. You might observe a significant reduction in swelling during this time frame.
Developments to anticipate:
Substantial reduction in overall facial swelling
Resolution of the majority of bruising
The initial results of your facelift procedure might become more visible
Months 1-3
As you progress into the months following your surgery, you’ll continue to observe improvements.
What you can expect:
Subtle changes as the final signs of swelling resolve
Scar maturation process begins
The final results of your procedure might become more visible
While the majority of swelling typically resolves within the initial few months, it’s important to understand that some subtle swelling may persist for up to a year post-procedure. This residual swelling is usually so minimal that it would be perceptible only to you and Dr Kernohan.
Download Dr Kernohan’s Face and Neck Lift Surgery Guide
Guide Facelift Surgery
Post-surgery Care Tips
Once you’ve had your facelift, it’s time to put your swelling management plan into action:
Keep your head elevated: This is important in the first few days after surgery. Sleep with your head propped up on a few pillows, or even in a recliner if you have one.
Apply cold compresses: Cold therapy can help reduce swelling and provide some relief. Use soft, cold compresses or ice packs wrapped in a clean cloth. Apply them gently to your face for about 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Take it easy: Your body needs rest to heal. Avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks after your surgery.
Stay hydrated: Continue drinking plenty of water after your surgery. It might seem counterintuitive, but good hydration actually helps reduce swelling.
Eat a low-sodium diet: Salt can contribute to fluid retention, so try to keep your sodium intake low in the weeks following your surgery.
Wear your compression garment: Dr Kernohan will likely provide you with a special compression garment to wear after surgery. It might not be the most fashionable accessory, but it’s helpful in managing swelling.
Gentle massage: Once Dr Kernohan gives you the green light (usually after a couple of weeks), gentle facial massage can help reduce swelling and promote circulation.
Recommended Products or Techniques to Help Reduce Swelling after Facelift
Arnica cream or tablets: This natural remedy can help reduce bruising and swelling.
Bromelain supplements: Found in pineapple, this enzyme may help reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C supplements: This vitamin can support collagen production and help with healing.
Gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser: Keeping your skin hydrated can help with comfort as you heal.
Remember, always check with Dr Kernohan before using any new products or supplements during your recovery.
When to Be Concerned – Abnormal Swelling after Facelift Surgery
While swelling is a normal part of the healing process, there are times when it might indicate a problem. It’s important to know the difference between normal swelling and signs that you should contact Dr Kernohan.
Signs that indicate a need for medical attention:
Sudden increase in swelling: If you notice a rapid increase in swelling, especially if it’s more pronounced on one side of your face, this could be a sign of a haematoma (a collection of blood under the skin).
Extreme pain: While some discomfort is normal, severe or increasing pain is not.
Fever: If you develop a fever (38°C or higher), this could indicate an infection.
Redness and warmth: Some redness around your incision sites is normal, but if you notice spreading redness or your face feels unusually warm to the touch, contact Dr Kernohan.
Oozing or foul-smelling discharge: This could be a sign of infection.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing: If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
How to Differentiate Between Normal and Abnormal Swelling:
Normal swelling typically:
Is relatively symmetrical (similar on both sides of the face)
Gradually decreases over time
Doesn’t cause severe pain
Isn’t accompanied by fever or other symptoms of illness
Abnormal swelling often:
Increases suddenly or continues to worsen after the first few days
Is significantly worse on one side of the face
Is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or other concerning symptoms
Feels unusually firm or hot to the touch
FAQs about Swelling after Facelift Surgery
How long will the swelling last?
While everyone’s healing process is unique, most patients find that the majority of swelling subsides within 2-4 weeks. However, some swelling can persist for several months. During this time it’s important to be patient and positive.
Will the swelling be painful?
Most patients describe the swelling as uncomfortable rather than painful. You might feel a sense of tightness or pressure. Dr Kernohan will prescribe appropriate pain management to keep you comfortable during your recovery.
Can I speed up the reduction of swelling?
While you can’t completely eliminate swelling, you can help manage it by following Dr Kernohan’s post-op instructions carefully. This includes keeping your head elevated, applying cold compresses, and avoiding strenuous activities.
Will the swelling affect my final results?
No, the swelling is temporary and won’t impact your final results. As the swelling gradually subsides, you’ll see the results of your surgery.
Can I wear makeup to cover the swelling and bruising?
Dr Kernohan typically advises waiting at least a week before applying any makeup. Once he gives you the green light, mineral-based makeup is usually the gentlest option for your healing skin.
Is it normal for the swelling to fluctuate?
Yes, some fluctuation is normal. You might notice that your face is a bit more swollen in the morning or after certain activities. This typically improves as you progress in your recovery.
What if the swelling seems worse on one side?
Some minor asymmetry in swelling can be normal. However, if you notice a significant difference between sides, particularly if it’s accompanied by pain or other symptoms, contact Dr Kernohan’s office.
Can I ice my face to reduce swelling?
Gentle cold therapy can be helpful, but it’s important to follow Dr Kernohan’s specific instructions. Never apply ice directly to your skin, and limit cold treatments to the recommended duration.
Will drinking alcohol increase my swelling?
Yes, alcohol can increase swelling and potentially interfere with your healing. Dr Kernohan typically recommends avoiding alcohol for at least a few weeks after surgery.
When can I resume exercise without worrying about increasing swelling?
Dr Kernohan usually advises patients to avoid strenuous exercise for about 4-6 weeks after a facelift. He’ll give you personalised guidance on gradually reintroducing physical activities.
Further Reading about Face Surgery with Dr Michael Kernohan
Dr Michael Kernohan MBBS, MSc, BDS, MRCS, FDSRCS, FRCS(Plast), FRACS (Plast
Dr Michael Kernohan is a highly experienced Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgeon, fully qualified in both Australia and the UK. He has had extensive training, holding qualifications in both dentistry and medicine. His training path has taken him around the world acquiring skills from some of the world’s best surgeons.