2 weeks post deep plane facelift: I'm still swollen and my face looks much rounder than before, when will I look normal again?

Question

I thought at two weeks I would look more like my self with just my jawline being less saggy. Will I look more like myself again ?

Mark Karolak, DO, FAOCO · Answer

I find that the majority of healing after a facelift occurs in the first 1-2 weeks. During this time, swelling will make the result look tighter than it really is.  As this swelling subsides, the result starts to settle in.  The goal should be a very nice, natural-looking improvement.  In my experience, the truest representation of the final result, and the best time for accurate postop pictures, is anytime after 3 months. If there is a concern about swelling, even at 30 days after surgery, you should go see your surgeon.  Very often, what you are seeing is a normal part of the healing process, however your surgeon is the best person to reassure you.

Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS · Answer

This can be typical after a facelift. There may also still be some swelling present, which will gradually resolve over the next several weeks. I recommend following up with your surgeon, if you remain concerned. 
Sincerely, 
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS
Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. Swelling after a facelift can take weeks to go down completely. In my practice, I perform a deep plane facelift (like what you had). While this technique has less bruising and a lower hematoma risk, there is certainly still significant swelling in the cheeks. Please rest, keep your head elevated, and, most importantly, try to be patient. That's the hardest part!

Ben Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. While the vast majority of patients are able to be presentable in public in a week to ten days, some people remain extremely swollen for various reasons (i.e. drainage patterns in the head and neck, salt intake in the diet, etc). I don't routinely give steroids as there are certain complications associated with them, but many surgeons do. It is important to keep in contact with your surgeon so that they can go over options with you. The good news is, the swelling will eventually go away and hopefully you are headed towards a great result.

Jonathan Zelken, MD · Answer

Depending on the procedure performed, swelling can take weeks or even months to resolve. Keeping you head of bed elevated will help at night. A jaw bra helps too. In fact, a tight postoperative dressing will actually make the central oval of the face MORE swollen until it is removed (since it compresses outgoing lymphatic channels). Patients who take steroids routinely also have more significant swelling than other patients. If your dependable board certified plastic surgeon is reassuring you, that's great.

Andrew T. Cohen, MD, FACS · Answer

It is perfectly normal to have swelling up to a few weeks post facelift surgery.  Swelling can depend on a patient's level of activity, any medication they might be taking or general water retention and general swelling.  The natural shape of  your face will settle eventually and you will see your final, and hopefully wonderful, result.  It is always important to have good communication with your Doctor, and continue to have follow-up visits and always go to a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Michael J. Rodriguez, MD, FAACS -Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. Depending on the exact procedure performed, swelling takes anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks to really subside. Every individual heals differently. Typically, at or around 3 months you can see the end result of what your face and neck lift will look like. If there is any concern about continuous swelling, you should see your surgeon. Best of luck!

2 weeks post deep plane facelift: I'm still swollen and my face looks much rounder than before, when will I look normal again?

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