A facelift is a powerful cosmetic surgery procedure that can turn back the clock by lifting and tightening the lower face and neck. While the results are long-lasting, recovery is a critical phase in achieving optimal outcomes. Here are expert tips to help you recover smoothly and confidently after your facelift. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides facelift to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

What to Expect in the Days After Surgery

Immediately following your procedure, your cosmetic surgeon will place dressings or drains, and you may feel tightness, bruising, and swelling. These effects are normal and part of the healing process.

Early Recovery Tips:

• Rest With Elevation: Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, to reduce swelling

• Follow All Post-Op Instructions: Your surgeon’s guidance is key to a complication-free recovery

• Avoid Strenuous Activities: Give your body time to heal—typically 2 weeks before resuming light activity

• Use Cold Compresses: Helps minimize swelling and discomfort in the first few days

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

• Week 1: Swelling and bruising peak; you’ll likely return to your cosmetic surgeon for a follow-up

• Week 2: Most patients feel ready to resume non-strenuous activities; residual bruising may still be present

• Week 3–4: Noticeable improvement in appearance; scars begin to fade

• Week 6 and Beyond: Full activity can resume; results continue to refine for several months

Pro Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper nutrition supports healing

• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both can impair recovery and increase risks

• Gentle Skincare: Use mild products to avoid irritating healing skin

• Protect Your Skin: Avoid direct sun exposure and always wear SPF

Patience Pays Off

Although you’ll see improvements early on, your final facelift results will emerge gradually as swelling subsides and tissues settle. By following your cosmetic surgeon’s instructions and giving your body the time it needs, you’ll enjoy a refreshed, naturally youthful look that lasts for years.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.