Case #1791
Facelift
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This 67-year-old patient wanted to turn back the clock on aging and treat herself to a mini-makeover for her 67th birthday. Dr. Cassileth performed a facelift to address sagging skin and jowling.
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
- Aftercare
Mobility ramp slowed; physical therapy consultation at week 4.
Older patients benefit from a guided return-to-activity plan.
- Skincare
Cosmeceutical actives held until week 3; full program returns by the start of 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.
- Wedge pillow or recliner for the first 7 nights. Low-sodium, easy-chew meals reduce both swelling and effort in the first few days.
- Confirm a driver for surgery day and a companion who can stay through the first night.
- Pre-op medical clearance from the patient's primary physician is required. Cardiology clearance added when indicated by history.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Sleep elevated, gentle cold therapy, and quiet voice for the first 3 days. Bruising peaks midweek; swelling is at its most visible.
- Week 2
Stitches removed, residual bruising fading, social comfort returns. No lifting, no straining, no exercise yet.
- Week 4
The "I look like myself again" milestone for most. Camera comfort returns. Light cardio and yoga added back.
- Week 6
Standard clearance milestone. Patients return to most exercise, gym work, and sleeping in any position.
- Month 3
The "before/after" shape most people associate with the procedure shows itself in this window.
