Managing Swelling and Bruising After a Facelift

Swelling and bruising are a completely normal part of the facelift recovery process. Even with Korea’s advanced surgical techniques and minimal-incision methods, the face still needs time to settle, drain excess fluid, and fully heal. Understanding what’s normal — and how to manage it — can help you feel more confident and supported during recovery.

Here’s a guide to what to expect and how to minimize swelling and bruising after a facelift.

Why Swelling and Bruising Happen After a Facelift

A facelift involves lifting deeper facial layers, repositioning tissue, and sometimes tightening the neck. This disrupts small blood vessels and creates temporary inflammation. As a result:

• Swelling peaks during the first week
• Bruising may appear around the cheeks, jawline, and neck
• The face can feel tight, heavy, or mildly numb

These symptoms gradually improve as the body heals.

What’s Normal During Recovery?

Days 1–3

• Swelling at its highest point
• Tightness around the cheeks and jaw
• Bruising may appear on the lower cheeks and neck
• The face may feel “puffy” or heavier than expected

Week 1

• Majority of bruising fades
• Swelling begins to decrease
• Jawline definition starts to appear

Weeks 2–4

• Residual swelling remains, especially in the midface
• Most patients feel comfortable going out by Week 3
• Skin and tissues soften

3–6 Months

• Final contour settles
• Remaining swelling disappears
• Complete healing of deeper tissues

How to Reduce Swelling and Bruising After a Facelift

1. Use Cold Compresses (First 48 Hours Only)

Applying gentle cold compresses helps constrict blood vessels and reduce early swelling.
Avoid direct ice on the skin — use a cloth barrier.

2. Keep Your Head Elevated

Sleep with your head raised at a 30–45° angle.
This helps drain fluid and reduces pressure on healing tissues.

3. Avoid Bending, Lifting, or Straining

These movements increase blood flow to the face and can worsen swelling or bruising.

4. Follow Your Surgeon’s Medication Plan

Most surgeons provide anti-inflammatory medications and Arnica or bromelain supplements to help reduce bruising.

5. Limit Salt Intake

Extra sodium causes fluid retention, making swelling last longer.
Choosing low-sodium meals is especially helpful during the first 3 weeks.

6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking reduces blood circulation
Alcohol dilates blood vessels
Both can increase swelling and delay healing.

7. Gentle Lymphatic Drainage Massage (When Approved)

Many Korean clinics offer swelling-care programs with:

• LED therapy
• Radiofrequency healing
• Light lymphatic massage

These treatments can significantly speed up the recovery process — but must be started with your surgeon’s approval.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins and improve circulation, promoting faster healing.

What to Avoid After a Facelift

• Saunas or steam rooms (heat worsens swelling)
• Intense workouts for 3–4 weeks
• Sleeping face-down
• Rubbing, massaging, or applying pressure to the face
• Direct sun exposure

These actions can slow healing or cause prolonged bruising.

When Swelling Becomes a Concern

Contact your clinic if you notice:

• Sudden increase in swelling after initial improvement
• Severe asymmetry that gets worse
• Hot, painful swelling that feels infected
• Visible fluid collection under the skin

Most issues are minor, but early evaluation prevents complications.

How Long Until You Look “Normal”?

• 2–3 weeks: Most patients feel comfortable in social settings
• 6 weeks: Majority of swelling is gone
• 3–6 months: Final results settle

Korean clinics often provide aftercare packages to help speed up this timeline, making recovery smoother and more predictable.