Facial surgery: A different type of preparation and recovery
February 19, 2026Categories: Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Care
Overview: Facial surgery, whether it’s elective or not, is not the same as other plastic surgeries, so it is good to be prepared before and after your procedure.
You’re thinking about having facial surgery, whether it’s a facelift or neck or eyelid surgery. Have you thought about how to prepare in advance or what type of recovery you’ll face? The good news is that facial surgery patients typically experience less discomfort in the immediate post-operative period compared to body surgery. It’s much easier to move around after facial surgery than other types of plastic surgery. However, less physical pain can be offset by a more complicated psychological recovery.
That’s because significant swelling may result in an altered appearance after surgery that can take several months to resolve. Here are some things to consider before embarking on facial surgery:
Prepping for surgery
Patients often ask about the recovery after facial surgery, but fewer contemplate the importance of how you go into surgery. A good skin care routine before surgery, combined with a healthy, protein-rich diet focusing on whole foods and fewer processed foods, can make a significant difference to your recovery.
At least one month before surgery, it’s recommended you meet with a MercyOne aestheticians to review your routine. Specialized skincare programs can encourage better healing, promote improved elasticity, reduce swelling and bruising and optimize collagen production.
Some patients choose to change their hairstyle before surgery to help make scarring less visible after surgery.
Prepping for recovery
After facial surgery, you may be fine with seeing others publicly, or you may not want to see anyone until you're fully recovered. Everyone has a different comfort level, whether they’re with family, friends, co-workers or strangers.
A typical guideline is that it will take two weeks before you feel comfortable with strangers, four weeks for family and friends, and six to eight weeks before you start feeling confident about yourself in any public situation.
Bruising and swelling
After facial or eyelid surgery, swelling and bruising are expected. In terms of how long, each patient is different. A rough guide is two to four weeks for bruising and six to eight weeks for swelling to disappear. This can be shorter or longer, with gradual, consistent improvement typically seen.
When will my scars fade?
During the first four to six weeks, scars fade significantly and may continue to fade for up to a year. Once the incisions close, your surgeon will confirm if you can use make-up to make them less noticeable.
Your instincts may lead you to consistently look at yourself in the mirror. That may add to any anxiety you're feeling. Instead, focus on healthy food and liquid intake that will support your recovery.
Driving after eyelid surgery
Eyelid surgery will cause more swelling, which may impact your vision. Although temporary, you may need to refrain from driving for one to two weeks.
Support is key during recovery
Having support and help at home during your post-surgery period is recommended, as resting enhances your recovery. Every patient’s recovery from surgery is different, and your surgical team is never able to guarantee your recovery timeline.
During consultation and pre-operative appointments, your surgeon and nursing team will review the risks and provide instructions to follow before and after surgery. At follow-up visits, they will monitor your progress and make recommendations to support your continued recovery.
If you're considering facial surgery, consult with a MercyOne plastic surgery specialist.
This blog was medically reviewed by a MercyOne provider.
