How long can I expect to be bruised after a mini facelift? What is the downtime in comparison to a full facelift?

Most surgeons agree that a "mini" lift is equal to a jawline lift.  This has been known in the past as a "lunchtime lift" for some.  Certainly the recovery time for a minilift is shorter than that of a full lower face and necklift.  In our practice, we advise patients that they will look "presentable" at one week post-procedure with their hair down (ie for women with long hair).  They typically can go back to the gym at that time as well.  A lower facelift and necklift usually doubles that time frame as far as looking good and getting back to routine activity.

Thank you for your questions.  The recovery time really does depend on which technique your surgeon is using.  Also, whether you are just having skin removed or skin and muscle.  I would suggest referring to your surgeon as everyone's protocol will be different. The lower facelift I perform under a local anaesthetic we advise our patients to have 7-10 days off work.  If they are combining their procedure with liposuction or eyelid surgery then 10-14 days maybe needed.  All The Best 

Its about 10-14 days, after which you are restaurant ready- you will still have some lumps and swelling, possibly bruising, however, its easy to cover up at this point. This average is for most patients and some patients heal quicker and some slower. Full healing takes a few months before the sensitivity and swelling resolves completely.