Facelift, Rhinoplasty & Eyelid Surgery Recovery Time: What You Need To Know (Updated 2024)

For people considering a facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, and more at my San Francisco facial plastic surgery practice, recovery times are an important factor to consider. While most people find their years of confidence well worth a few weeks of downtime, it’s essential you know what to expect as you plan your surgery timeline.

In this blog post, I’ll share some insight into the typical recovery times for a few popular facial procedures, as well as a few tips for an even speedier recuperation.

How Long Is Facelift Recovery?

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during your facelift recovery:

Week 1: Rest and Initial Healing

• Soreness and Discomfort: Some soreness is normal and can be easily managed with prescription pain medication. Many people transition to over-the-counter pain relievers by the end of the week.
• Swelling and Bruising: These are most noticeable during the first few days but will gradually improve.

Week 2: Back to Light Activities

• Social Readiness: Bruising and swelling will have reduced significantly and can often be concealed with makeup.
• Light Exercise: You can begin light activities, such as walking, but avoid vigorous workouts.

Weeks 4–6: Feeling Back to Normal

• Full Recovery: Most people look and feel like themselves again after about a month, though some minor swelling may linger.
• Exercise: You can resume more strenuous activities and vigorous workouts during this period.

Mini Facelift Note: If you’re undergoing a mini facelift, expect a slightly shorter recovery timeline.

By following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and giving your body the time it needs to heal, you’ll enjoy beautiful results with minimal downtime.

Learn more about the types of facelifts available in this blog post.

How Long Is Rhinoplasty Recovery?

Here’s what to expect during your rhinoplasty recovery journey:

Week 1: Rest and Early Healing

• Back to Routine: Most people feel ready to return to office work or school within 7 to 10 days.
• Splints and Stitches: Splints and sutures are typically removed after 5 to 7 days. By this time, most bruising and swelling will have significantly decreased.
• Sleeping With Support: You’ll need to continue sleeping with a splint on to protect your nose.

Weeks 4–6: Gradual Return to Activity

• Exercise: Light activities can resume after the first few weeks, but you should avoid strenuous exercise or activities that put pressure on your nose.
• Contact Sports: Steer clear of contact sports or anything that could result in an impact to your nose.

Long-Term Healing

• Minor Swelling: Some swelling may linger for up to a year, particularly at the tip of the nose, but this is typically subtle and unnoticeable to others.

Pro Tip: Following your surgeon’s post-op care instructions is the best way to ensure a smooth recovery and stunning results!

How Long Is Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Recovery?

Here’s what to expect during your eyelid surgery recovery:

Week 1: Back to Daily Activities

• Return to Work: Most people feel ready to resume work and daily activities about 5 to 10 days after surgery.
• Bruising: Bruising may persist for 2 to 3 weeks but can usually be concealed with makeup by the second week.

Weeks 2–4: Resuming Physical Activity

• Exercise: Gradual physical activities can begin 2 to 4 weeks after surgery. Avoid strenuous exercises or activities that may strain the healing area.

Pro Tip: Following your surgeon’s recommendations and taking care of your healing skin will ensure you enjoy smooth results with minimal downtime.

Recovery timelines are similar for upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, and Asian eyelid surgery. Learn more about Asian eyelid surgery in this blog post.

Tips for a Speedier Recovery After Facial Plastic Surgery

Recovering from facial plastic surgery doesn’t have to mean weeks of downtime. Follow these tips to heal faster while protecting your results:

• Stick to Your Surgeon’s Guidelines: Adhering to post-op instructions—like wound care, medication, and activity restrictions—is essential to avoid complications and keep your recovery on track.
• Prioritize Rest: Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling and give your body the energy it needs to heal.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Right: Fuel recovery with nutrient-rich foods high in vitamins A and C, zinc, and protein. Avoid alcohol and salty or processed foods that can slow healing.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and nicotine products. These can cause additional bruising and affect your body’s ability to heal.
• Manage Swelling Wisely: Use cold compresses as directed and limit sodium to keep swelling under control. Light walking can also improve circulation and speed up the healing process.
• Use Skincare Safely: Follow your surgeon’s advice on when to reintroduce gentle skincare and sunscreen to protect healing skin.
• Communicate With Your Surgeon: Attend follow-up appointments and contact your provider immediately if you have concerns to catch any issues early.

By following these steps, you’ll not only recover faster but also ensure your results look their very best.

With the proper care, you will be back on your feet with a brand-new sense of confidence before you know it. To see further examples of the results you can expect after facial plastic surgery, please visit my before-and-after photo gallery.

Request a Consultation

If you would like to learn more about what it is like to recover from facial plastic surgery, please request a consultation online or call my Bay Area office at (415) 441-1888.