Case #1782 · Los Angeles, California
Facelift
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This 56-year-old patient from Los Angeles, California wanted to address aging of her lower face. Dr. Cassileth performed a lower facelift and neck lift.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Facelift.
- Head elevated on 2–3 pillows for the first 2 weeks
- Cold compresses for the first 72 hours to reduce swelling
- No vigorous activity for 3 weeks, no heavy lifting for 6 weeks
- Drains typically removed at day 1–2; sutures at day 5–7
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to support healing when recommended
- Medical-grade silicone sheeting on incisions around and behind the ears
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic on incision lines after week 2
- SPF 50+ on the entire face for life — sun protection preserves the result
- LED light therapy weekly for the first 8 weeks
- Lymphatic drainage starting week 2
- Laser or microneedling along the incisions after 3 months
- Skincare
Medical-grade skincare reintroduced at week 3, gentle retinoid alternative first, full actives by month 2.
Active skincare resumes on a healing-friendly ramp after facial surgery.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Discontinue blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) two weeks out. Acetaminophen remains safe; the full list is reviewed at pre-op.
- Nicotine in any form, cigarettes, vapes, patches, gum, paused six weeks before and six weeks after surgery. Nicotine narrows blood vessels and slows wound healing.
- Sleep elevated for the first week. Stock the kitchen with low-sodium soft foods, since chewing comfort and salt-driven swelling both matter early.
- A driver is required the day of surgery and a responsible adult should stay with you the first 24 hours.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Cold compresses, head elevated, low-talking the first 72 hours. Most bruising peaks at day 3 and starts to soften by day 5.
- Week 2
Stitches removed, residual bruising fading, social comfort returns. No lifting, no straining, no exercise yet.
- Week 4
Residual swelling continues to refine. Most patients return to normal social and work life; light cardio begins.
- Week 6
Most physical restrictions lift. Return to strength training, full-impact cardio, and overhead lifting.
- Month 3
Tissue settles into final position. Subtle technique details (jawline definition, tip refinement) become visible now.
