When can you do cardio after a facelift?

Recovery time from a #facelift varies from person to person, but patients can generally expect to be presentable within three weeks from surgery. Patients should expect #swelling, #bruising, and #discoloration of the skin during this phase of recovery (swelling normally goes down after 48 hours; most bruising will go away within two weeks). The marks from a facelift are noticeable at first, but are easily hidden with a bit of “camouflage” make-up which our staff teaches our patients how to use. The #scars from a facelift mature within six to twelve months from the surgery date. It is during this time that the rejuvenating effects of the facelift will become apparent and the real result will be seen. Most patients who have had Lite Lifts™ feel reasonably normal within 2-4 days after surgery even though they are swollen. If you wish to do light office work, you may. Do not, however, do any heavy activities or aerobic #exercise for at least 3 weeks after surgery! Strenuous #activities can cause bleeding and swelling for a longer period than is necessary.

I allow my patients to resume cardio workouts about two weeks after a facelift. Running is disallowed but a stairmaster recumbent bike are legitimate alternatives.