Recovery after a facelift has two components: the immediate post-operative recovery, as well as the “social” recovery.

After your surgery, there will be some swelling and bruising — most of which will diminish over the first two weeks. Some discomfort will be expected and oral pain medicine is usually quite effective.

The social aspect of the recovery is that, although you may feel great after several days, you will still have some residual bruising and swelling. It takes extra time for this to decrease to a level so that you can be seen in public. Women may shorten this time with makeup.

Kole Plastic Surgery welcomes the thoughtful inquiries he has received from patients. As a skilled Pennsylvania plastic surgeon , he knows that clients considering aesthetic or reconstructive surgery need information and reassurance before they can make an informed, realistic choice about undergoing a medical procedure. Please call 215-315-7655 to get more advice or to obtain a free copy of Dr. Kole’s book, Cosmetic Surgery: The Risks and Rewards.