How Long Should One Wait After a Face Lift to Get a Second Opinion on the Outcome?

One should wait at least 6-9 months to see the final results after a facelift or any facial rejuvenation procedure. At that time, one can address your concerns in most cases.

Swelling and scar maturation take at least 6 months to settle and sometimes longer in some patients.  You can seek another opinion around this time but you may be asked to return at the one year mark to better assess the skin elasticity.

It can take up to 6 months for you to be able to fully assess the outcome of your face lift surgery.  Scars with continue to mature and look better up to 12 months post-op

Each situation is unique, but usually after a year. I would do a consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon at about 8 months, and then make long range plans.  You may need to speak with 2-3 Board Certified Plastic Surgeons before you find the one for you. 

I have seen many patients that have had facelifts elsewhere that request a 2nd opinion 1 to 4 months after having a facelift.  Often there are concerns that something is not healing right, something was not done correctly, and fear of something being overlooked.

This is more likely to occur if the primary doctor does not spend enough time with the patient to allay their fears about the vagaries of the healing process.  It is important that the patient feels "listened to."

I agree with many posts, wait 6 to 9 months as interventions before then as many concerns or issues may go away as the healing process progresses.  Best of Luck!