When can I go out in public without looking like I just had facelift surgery?

After a week, most people can see family and friends and look fine with some bruising. After two weeks, patients can go out in public and return to work with make-up to cover minor bruises.

This is a very common question that we get and an excellent one!
Most surgeons use a fairly robust facelift dressing for the first several days to the first week which can often be a clue that someone had a facelift. The bruising and swelling will likely resolve over the first week or two. The incisions can be visible for the first 3-4 weeks, though fortunately are often hidden along the hairline or along natural creases of the face, making them easier to hide.
So to answer your initial question, I would probably say you could go in public after the facelift dressing is removed (around 1 week), though you will have some swelling/bruising and may benefit from having a light scarf or something wrapped around to minimize visibility of the incisions.

Hi there!
Most patients are "socially presentable" 2-3 weeks after their facelift surgery. This is when the obvious swelling and bruising should subside. It is important to consider that incisions may still be obvious during this time and take time to heal/fade, however, if you have longer hair they are easily covered.