How Long is Recovery After a Facelift?

July 17, 2020


Recovery from a facelift at the Langdon Center typically takes between one and two weeks. Additionally, you may need to wait a few more weeks for all swelling to subside.

Facelift Guilford

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure (sometimes called a rhytidectomy) that lifts and elevates the skin on the face, making it look tighter and more youthful. The treatment aims to reduce the appearance of flabby and sagging skin, resulting in a  more youthful look to the lower face and neck

At The Langdon Center, we always carry out facelift procedures using local anesthesia in combination with a sedative.

Dr. Robert Langdon, is a Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon and a Board-Certified Dermatologist in Guilford, CT, and has been practicing for more than 30 years. When performing a facelift, he makes cuts around the hairline and temples towards the ear and behind the ear. He then loosens the skin from the underlying fascia layer. Next, he loosens the fascia layer from deeper attachments and then lifts the fascia layer to provide a lift to the attached skin in both the lower face and neck. The lifted fascia layer provides stable, long-term support to the overlying skin..

Facelift Recovery Time

Facelift recovery takes between one and two weeks. Most patients look quite good after seven days, when surface stitches are removed. It can take a few more weeks for all swelling to completely resolve.

The main reason Dr. Langdon’s facelift patients recover so quickly is that he uses local anesthesia. Because the local anesthetic includes an ingredient that constricts small blood vessels, there is much less bruising and swelling, which accounts for the quick recovery (thus the name “Express-Lift” for Dr.Langdon’s facelift technique).

Take the Next Step 

If you have further questions about Facelift , we encourage you to schedule a consultation at The Langdon Center in Guilford, CT. Call us at 203-453-8625 or fill out our convenient online contact form.

Facelift Recovery Tips 

Facelifts are a major surgical procedure and require substantial rest and recuperation. Here are some tips from The Langdon Center for how to recover better: 

  • Prop your head up on a pillow for the first night, as this will help reduce the amount of swelling
  • Don’t shower until after we see you on the postoperative day
  • Don’t do any strenuous exercise for the first two weeks
  • Avoid massages and saunas for at least two weeks
  • Use moisturizing ointments on the incision line  if recommended
  • Protect healed incisions from direct sunlight until the pink color has faded

Am I a Candidate for a Facelift?

The best facelift candidates are healthy middle-aged patients who want to improve their appearance and reduce sagging or loose skin around the lower face and neck. The effects of a full facelift can be very pleasing, giving you a great boost in confidence. 

“I had an express face lift 13 years ago. At the time I was very happy with the results. I looked younger and fresher, but the effect was also natural. Now 13 years years later, at the age of 68, I still look great. When I tell people my age, they express disbelief. I would recommend this procedure to anyone who wants to look younger.” *

Take the Next Step

If you have further questions about Facelift recovery we encourage you to schedule a consultation at The Langdon Center in Guilford, CT. Call us at 203-453-8625 or fill out our convenient online contact form.

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Dr. Robert Langdon

Dr. Robert Langdon, MD is a triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Dermatology, Cosmetic Surgery, and Facial Cosmetic Surgery. He specializes in advanced laser and low-impact procedures under local anesthesia, emphasizing quick recovery and low risks. With over 30 years of experience, he prioritizes personalized care and has authored significant publications, including a book on cosmetic laser surgery.

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