Getting ready for your facelift surgery. This guide covers everything you need to gather and prepare in the weeks before your procedure.
Welcome to Your Recovery Hub
The Recovery Hub is designed to support you through every stage of your facelift journey. From preparation through to your final results, you'll find practical advice, realistic expectations, and reassurance along the way.
Each stage of this guide will help you understand what's normal, what to watch for, and how to optimise your recovery.
Before Your Surgery
Medical Preparation
Stop smoking at least four weeks before your procedure. Smoking severely impairs healing and increases the risk of skin loss and complications.
Discontinue blood-thinning medications as directed by your surgeon. This includes aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba.
Provide a complete medical history including all medications, supplements, and any previous surgeries or medical conditions.
Attend your pre-operative assessment if required, to ensure you're fit for surgery and anaesthesia.
Arrange blood tests if requested by your surgeon or anaesthetist.
Practical Arrangements
Arrange for someone to collect you from the hospital or clinic. You cannot drive or take public transport home after a general anaesthetic.
Ensure someone can stay with you for at least the first 48-72 hours after surgery. You'll need help with basic tasks.
Take time off work - plan for at least 2 weeks, though some patients take 3 weeks depending on their job and healing progress.
Prepare your recovery space with extra pillows to sleep elevated (30-45 degrees), easy-to-prepare meals, and entertainment.
Arrange childcare or pet care for the first week if needed.
Recovery Supplies Checklist
Gather these items before your surgery so everything is ready when you return home:
Essential Items
Facial compression garment - your surgeon will provide this, but ensure you know how to wear it correctly
Extra pillows or wedge pillow - to help you sleep elevated at 30-45 degrees and reduce swelling
Button-up or zip-up tops - avoid pulling clothing over your head for the first two weeks
Gentle facial cleanser - fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
Soft towels - for gentle patting (not rubbing) your face dry
Ice packs or frozen peas - wrapped in a soft cloth for gentle application to reduce swelling
Straws for drinking - makes hydration easier without moving your face too much
Helpful Items
Arnica tablets or cream - may help reduce bruising (though scientific evidence is limited, it's harmless)
Bromelain supplements - pineapple enzyme that some patients find helpful for swelling
Dry shampoo - useful for the first few days when washing your hair may be uncomfortable
Gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser - for areas not covered by compression garment
Entertainment - audiobooks, podcasts, or streaming services for when you're resting
Food Preparation
Stock up on soft, easy-to-eat foods - soups, smoothies, yoghurt, soft fruits
Prepare meals in advance and freeze them for easy reheating
Stay hydrated - have plenty of water, herbal teas, and electrolyte drinks available
Avoid very hot foods in the first few days as they can increase swelling
Important Note About Hair
Wash and style your hair the day before surgery. You won't be able to wash your hair properly for several days after the procedure, and you'll need to avoid pulling clothing over your head. Consider a hairstyle that can be managed without extensive washing.
Mental Preparation
Understanding what to expect emotionally is just as important as physical preparation:
Your face will look very swollen and bruised immediately after surgery. This is completely normal and will improve significantly over 2-3 weeks.
Numbness and tingling around the ears and cheeks is normal and can last several weeks to months.
The final result takes 6-12 months to fully reveal itself as swelling gradually resolves and tissues settle.
It's common to feel anxious or even have moments of regret in early recovery. These feelings usually pass as swelling resolves and results emerge.
Taking regular photos can help you track your progress when day-to-day changes seem imperceptible.
Pro Tip
Set up your phone to take weekly photos from the same angles in the same lighting. This "recovery diary" will be invaluable for tracking your progress, especially when changes happen so gradually you might not notice them day to day. Include front, 45-degree, and profile views.
Final Pre-Surgery Checklist
Confirm your surgery time and arrival time at the hospital or clinic
Understand the fasting requirements (typically nothing to eat or drink from midnight)
Remove all jewellery, makeup, and nail polish before arriving
Wear comfortable, loose clothing that doesn't need to be pulled over your head
Bring any required documents, ID, and insurance information