Face Lift Recovery Timeline: Sinsa Station, Gangnam

When you start researching a face lift because of deepening nasolabial folds and a sagging jawline, it can be surprisingly hard to find out how recovery actually unfolds after surgery. A face lift is not a simple procedure but an advanced surgery, so aftercare and the recovery process shape the outcome as much as surgical technique does. For anyone preparing for a face lift at a plastic surgery clinic near Sinsa Station in Gangnam, we have answered common recovery questions so you know what to expect at each stage instead of feeling vaguely anxious.

When Will the Bruising and Swelling Go Down?

After a face lift, most of the major swelling generally subsides within about a week. The key factor in how quickly you recover is icing during the first 3 days after surgery. Swelling peaks around day 3 and then decreases gradually.

Will the Incision Leave a Scar?

Face lift surgery today trends toward "minimal incisions" and "preservation of the orbicularis oris muscle." Because the incision follows the line in front of the ear with precision, it fades after about 6 months to the point where it is hard to spot with the naked eye.

How Long Do Results Last? Will It Sag Again?

When the surgeon doesn't just pull the skin but fully releases and secures the muscle layer (SMAS) as well, results can be expected to last about 10–15 years on average. That is much longer than a thread lifting, which lasts 1–2 years on average. Of course, how long results last depends on your individual rate of aging and how you care for your skin.

Recovery Milestones to Remember

• First 3 days: peak swelling; focus on icing and limit yourself to light walking indoors
• Day 7: stitches removed; short outings nearby are possible
• Day 14: return to makeup and social life
• 6 months: the incision line in front of the ear fades until it is barely noticeable

A face lift addresses sagging of the muscle layer, a root cause of facial aging. Knowing the recovery stages ahead of time and planning your schedule accordingly can greatly ease post-surgery anxiety.

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Last reviewed : 2026-10-07 This article provides general medical information. Individual diagnosis and treatment plans are determined through an in-person consultation.