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What to Expect from Your Toronto FaceLift Recovery

Regardless of the type of facelift that has been performed, the healing process is quite similar, although the recovery timelines can vary.

Although it is extremely important to follow the pre- and post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, many patients are surprised to learn just how easy the recovery process from a Toronto facelift is.

The Recovery Time

A Full Facelift

Following a mini facelift, in which smaller incisions are made, the recovery time will be shorter compared to a full facelift, where larger incisions are made and more extensive work is performed. Typically, recovery from a mini facelift takes around 7 to 10 days, whereas recovery from a full facelift is more likely to be around 2 or 3 weeks.

Immediately following the procedure, as the anesthetic wears off, patients usually wake up after about 30 minutes. It is normal and expected for the patient to feel quite groggy at first. After around 4 hours, once the clinic staff has ensured that the patient has stabilized, the patient is discharged into the care of family or friends to drive them home. After 24 hours, the head dressing and any drains will be removed. Sutures will remain in at this point and will be removed in stages after 5 days and after 1 week.

On Day 3 following the procedure, it is important to continue resting, although patients typically feel well enough to walk around by then. One of the main and most noticeable effects at that time will be swelling, which is most pronounced in the first 3 days. After the first 3 days have passed, the swelling should begin to subside.

Following the Post-Operative Instructions

Appearance After the Procedure

Most patients are able to stop using pain medications at that point. After approximately 1 week, when the sutures are removed, patients are able to sleep flat. However, the neck area is still likely to feel tight.

During Week 2 following a Toronto facelift, it is normal to still have some bruising and swelling around the face, neck, eyes, and ears. Numbness and tingling sensations in these areas are also a normal side effect of the bruising. Patients typically feel substantially better by the end of the second week. However, it is still important to avoid strenuous activity at this time.

After the second week is over, the appearance of the incisions begins to improve. Patients are usually able to comfortably attend social events and apply makeup without worry. However, it is normal, depending on the extent of work done, to still experience some swelling and tightness even during weeks 3 and 4 following the procedure.

One of the most important factors that will determine the ease of a Toronto facelift recovery is the technique and skill of the surgeon. It is extremely important to choose an experienced head and neck surgeon who can determine the best type of facelift for you and help you achieve optimal results. Furthermore, failure to follow the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon will impede recovery and potentially lead to excess swelling, bruising, and pain. To avoid complications, it is also recommended to avoid smoking, sun exposure, and medications that can cause excessive bleeding during the recovery period.

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Our facility offers a luxurious, comfortable and private setting for consultations and surgery with a waiting room that is both spacious and inviting. Although we hope you don’t have to spend too much time waiting to see Dr. Torgerson, within a few minutes you will feel relaxed and at ease.

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