Facelift

Since the procedure is performed under anesthesia, you won’t feel anything during the surgery itself. However, it is common to feel some minor discomfort or pain throughout recovery, mainly within the first few days to a week, which can be easily managed with pain medication, ice packs, and compression garments. Discomfort, pain, and swelling will begin to dwindle after the first week, making the recovery process easier and allowing you to move back into your regular routine.

To begin, you’ll first need a consultation. This is crucial to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure as well as to map out your surgical plan. Once you schedule the surgery about two weeks prior, you can expect to have a pre-operative appointment where you can ask any last-minute questions, and Dr. Chopra will ensure you’re medically cleared to proceed. After the surgery itself, you will have a few follow-up appointments for us to watch your healing progress and ensure that recovery is going smoothly.

You’ll notice an improvement in facial contours immediately after surgery, but the most significant results become visible as swelling and bruising fade. The majority of swelling diminishes within the first two to three weeks, but subtle residual swelling can take several months to resolve fully. Most patients see their final results around three to six months post-surgery as the tissues settle. Following Dr. Chopra’s post-operative care instructions is essential to ensure optimal healing and results.

Since incisions are made around the hairline, ears, and sometimes under the jawline, scarring after the procedure will be discreet. Additionally, Dr. Chopra will provide guidance on things you can do to minimize further scarring, such as staying out of the sun and applying scar creams to help them fade quickly throughout recovery. If you’re concerned about potential scarring, consult Dr. Chopra, who can always provide additional guidance if needed.

Light walking is encouraged as early as one to two days post-surgery to promote circulation, but strenuous exercise should be avoided. Most patients can resume light activities, such as yoga or gentle stretching, around two to three weeks after surgery. High-intensity workouts, heavy lifting, and activities that increase blood pressure should be postponed for at least four to six weeks to prevent complications like swelling, bruising, or prolonged healing. Always consult with Dr. Chopra before resuming any workout routine to ensure you’re healing properly.

It is definitely possible and common to combine facelifts with other procedures. Depending on the person, their goals, and the severity of their concerns, some procedures may need to be spaced apart to allow for safe healing and recovery, but generally, most procedures can be done together at our Washington D.C. office to minimize recovery time. Facelifts are commonly paired with neck lifts to address signs of aging on all aspects of the face, and injectables and other facial procedures like brow lifts, eyelid surgery, and liposuction are used for a more dramatic improvement.

Possible risks include infection, bleeding, hematoma, nerve injury, prolonged swelling, or asymmetry, though these are minimized with proper surgical technique and post-operative care. Some patients may experience temporary numbness or tightness in the face, which typically resolves within a few weeks to months. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive facelift experience significantly reduces the risk of complications and ensures a safer, more predictable outcome.

Finding the best plastic surgeon in Washington, D.C., requires thorough research into credentials, experience, and patient reviews. Look for a plastic surgeon with specialized training in facelift procedures, preferably one who has completed an aesthetic surgery fellowship. Reviewing before-and-after photos, reading patient testimonials, and scheduling a consultation to discuss your goals and concerns can help determine if a surgeon is the right fit. A top-tier plastic surgeon will prioritize natural-looking results, patient safety, and a personalized approach to ensure the best possible outcome.