After your facelift surgery a bandage is wrapped around your face to help control swelling. Sometimes, small drainage tubes are placed beneath the skin to drain away fluids that might otherwise accumulate. While discomfort may be minimal, any pain you feel can be controlled with medication prescribed by your surgeon. During the first week following your facelift surgery you should rest with your head elevated to help minimize bruising and swelling. Swelling will reach its peak during this time and begin to subside. After the bandages have been removed (24 - 48 hours after your surgery) you may shower. Stitches will dissolve or be removed. For the most part, face lift incisions are well healed within a week. You may return to light activity at 5 days.
