After a facelift, many or our Nashville patients are eager to return to their normal, everyday activities such as exercise. But as with any surgical procedure, recovery should be taken seriously.
How long after a facelift can I exercise?
We hear this question often. While you may feel better physically and mentally soon after your facelift, it is critical that you return to your workout routine in a manner that is safe and doesn’t jeopardize your results or your health.
Every patient is different, and while every workout program should be tailored to their fitness level and overall health, the guidelines below will help you manage your expectations by reminding you to take things slowly and listen to your body.
Days 1 to 3 Post-op
DO: After a facelift, allow yourself at least one full day of bed rest. And if you still don’t feel ready to start moving around by the second day, don’t push yourself. By the first or second day, however, most patients find that they’re ready to move around the house—which is as much exercise as is recommended those first 48 to 72 hours. We offer additional facelift recovery tips in our related blog post.
DON’T: Don’t be overly active or exert yourself for the first 48 hours following your surgery.
Weeks 1 to 3 Post-op
DO: Feel free to go for a walk in your neighborhood—wearing a hat or sunscreen—for about 15 to 20 minutes, eventually walking for up to 30 minutes as you continue to feel better and feel up to it. You can return to a fairly normal routine around the house by doing light housework and cooking. You can also add in a little stretching or gentle yoga during this time.
DON’T: To prevent any strain, don’t lift heavy objects.
4 Weeks After Surgery
DO: Resume light cardio like walking around the neighborhood, walking on a very slow setting on a treadmill, or cycling slowly on a stationary bike to gradually work yourself back up to a more vigorous workout over the next 2 weeks.
DON’T: Don’t elevate your heart rate too high. This helps prevent swelling, keep bruising to a minimum, and avoid bigger complications like seromas or bleeds.
6 Weeks Post-op
DO: You may engage in full exercise routines just as you did before your surgery.
DON’T: Don’t forget that each recovery is different, so it’s important to consider your individual needs. Ask Dr. Boggess for guidance based on your unique circumstances, condition, and recovery.
With patience, self-care, and realistic expectations, you can get back to living a healthy, active lifestyle in no time. If you have any questions regarding post-surgery exercise or the facelift procedure itself, call our Nashville facial plastic surgery practice today at (615) 942-8016 or use our online contact form to request a consultation.
