Facelift Recovery in Bellevue & Seattle

Understand what to expect during facelift recovery and how to support optimal healing every step of the way.

Dr. Young

Expert Guidance for a Smooth Recovery

Seattle and Bellevue facelift expert Dr. Philip Young has performed over 1,400 facelifts with more than 15 years of experience. Dr. Philip Young is an award-winning facial plastic surgeon and the developer of the Circles of Prominence theory on facial beauty. Patients travel from around the world for his expertise. This page will guide you through the facelift recovery process. If you have any questions at any time, please contact us.

Facelift, Necklift Mini Lift Plastic Surgery Learn Our Secrets Video by Seattle Bellevue's Dr Young

Before Your Procedure

Prior to your procedure, you will attend both a consultation and a pre-procedure appointment. During your consultation, we will determine the best procedure for your goals, and our team will review details, including pricing and financing. At your pre-procedure appointment, we will review your medical history, complete necessary clearances, and finalize consent forms. This appointment should take place at least two weeks before surgery. You will be asked to stop blood-thinning medications and supplements two weeks before and after surgery. You will also receive instructions regarding diet and hydration before your procedure.

Day of Surgery

On the day of your procedure, we will review all details again and answer any remaining questions.
Please bring your caretaker consent form, and ensure your caretaker has reviewed the post-procedure instructions. These can be found in your care package provided before surgery.

After Your Procedure

After surgery, we will begin your pain management to help ensure a smooth transition home.Pain medication (typically Percocet) should be taken as needed, with a maximum of 12 tablets in a 24-hour period. Your goal is to maintain a manageable level of discomfort (around 3–4 out of 10), rather than eliminating pain entirely. You should also begin your antibiotics as soon as possible, preferably with food, and complete the full course as prescribed. Nausea medication (such as ondansetron) may also be used as needed. Your caretaker should help track your medications during this time.

Drain Care

You may have surgical drains placed to remove fluid and support healing. While they may appear unfamiliar, they are an important part of recovery.

Drains are typically removed when output is less than 10–15 cc over 24 hours
Record drainage every 6–8 hours in milliliters (cc/ml)
Most drains are removed within 1–3 days

It is important that the drain bulbs remain compressed at all times to maintain suction and proper function.

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Wound Care & Compression

You can find detailed wound care instructions on our Wound and Incision Care page. We recommend wrapping your face and neck:

Use a 4-inch ace bandage applied gently, without excessive pressure.
24 hours a day for the first 7 days
Then nightly for up to 2 months

It is very important to avoid wrapping too tightly. Check your skin regularly to ensure there is no blanching (whitening of the skin from reduced blood flow).

Recovery Progress & Timeline

Recovery varies from patient to patient, but general guidelines include:

Bruising is most noticeable during the first week
Sutures are typically removed around day 6
Most visible recovery occurs within the first week
60% healing at 6 weeks
Swelling and discomfort peak in the first 2–3 days
80% healing at 6 months
Continued improvement for 1–2 years

You may experience tightness, swelling, and numbness during recovery. These are normal and improve gradually over time.

Before & After Recovery Examples

Below are images of a patient before and after a neck lift, including early recovery with drains in place. (Images referenced in original content remain here) These examples demonstrate typical swelling, bruising, and drain placement, as well as early contour improvements.

Your Results & Ongoing Support

Following your recovery instructions closely will significantly impact your final results. As healing progresses, you will begin to see improvements not only in your appearance but also in how you feel. Our team is here to guide and support you throughout the entire process.