How long will in take to recover from a facelift where the SMAS is cut off and sewn, plus a fat transfer?

Recovery after a
facelift will depend on the individual and the extent of the procedure.
Everyone heals differently. Most people are able to return to work between 10
and 14 days after their surgery even though some residual swelling and bruising
may take up to three weeks to disappear.
You should
refrain from any strenuous activities for at least three weeks. Strenuous
activities or exercise before that time will increase the risk of bleeding,
swelling, and bruising. Sun exposure should also be avoided during that time.
Your return to your normal activities is more determined by swelling and
bruising and by your personal feelings about how you want to look as you resume
social activities. A lot of the swelling will be resolved within eight to ten
days, which is when most patients resume more normal limited activities.
Bruising generally resolves in 2-3 weeks but it can be fairly easily covered
with make-up prior to total resolution. Many patients prefer to wait until the
bruising has disappeared before attending any major social events, or if they
want to look their best before being seen by their friends.It is
important to realize that following the advice from a surgeon on this or any
other website who proposes to tell you exactly what to do without examining
you, physically feeling the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a
full medical history, and discussing the pros and cons of each operative
procedure would not be in your best interest. I would suggest you find a
plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally
a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that you
trust and are comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that
surgeon in person.
Robert Singer,
MD FACS
La Jolla,
California

Thank you for an excellent question.
A SMAS face lift (plication or SMASectomy) recovery is approximately 1-week.
Micro-fat grafting adds more time to recovery as it is this component of facial rejuvenation that is likely to result in swelling and bruising.  I advise clients that it may take up to 3-weeks to fully recover from fat grafting; however, the results are worth the longer recovery.
I would not let the longer recovery with fat grafting dissuade you from this technique as it does significantly improve the results.  With both procedures, you can expect to be socially presentable with make-up by 10-days.
I hope this answer is helpful.