What does recovery after facelift look like? January 19, 2023 Houston facelift patients often experience mild swelling and bruising for the first seven to 10 days following their facelift procedure. During this time, we will fit you with a compression garment to help reduce swelling and promote your healing process. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks may also provide you with prescription medication that can help manage your pain. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks and their team will ask that you keep your head elevated when lying down for the first two weeks following your surgery. Patients can typically return to work and regular daily activities about one to two weeks following their facelift. It’s important that you avoid direct sunlight and the use of heavy makeup for three to four weeks following your facelift. Scars will be reduced to thin, easily hidden white lines after about six weeks, at which time you may resume more vigorous physical activities and workout routines. While you will be able to see some results of your facelift immediately following surgery, ultimate results will appear once all incisions have healed and the swelling subsides. This usually occurs roughly three to four months later.