Recovery
Facelift recovery timeline in Seoul, Korea
After a deep plane facelift at Grand, swelling peaks within 48 hours, stitches come out at 1–2 weeks, you can sleep normally and use a sauna after about 4 weeks, and return to jogging and swimming at 6 weeks. Most international patients stay 10–14 days in Seoul.
Rules for the first 6 weeks
- Swelling is greatest in the first 48 hours.
- Use ice packs for the first 7 days, then switch to warm packs.
- Sleep on your back with your head raised 20–30° for 4 weeks. Avoid sleeping on your side.
- No sauna or hot baths for about 4 weeks.
- No jogging, swimming or facial massage for 6 weeks.
- No smoking or alcohol for 3–4 weeks.
Planning around your flight
Plan your flight after stitch removal. Read when you can fly after a facelift for tips on the journey home.
Day-by-day recovery
- Surgery day
Surgery under general anesthesia with an anesthesiologist present. Most patients go back to their hotel the same day after monitored recovery.
- Day 1–2
Swelling and tightness peak within 48 hours. Keep your head raised and use ice packs. A post-operative check is scheduled at the clinic.
- Day 3–7
Swelling and bruising begin to settle. Continue ice packs until day 7. Short walks are encouraged.
- Week 1–2
Stitches are removed 1–2 weeks after surgery. Many patients fly home after this visit. Switch from ice to warm packs.
- Week 4
You can usually return to sleeping normally and use the sauna again. Most visible swelling has gone.
- Week 6+
Return to jogging, swimming and massage. The face keeps softening and settling over the following months.
Frequently asked questions
When can I go back to work?
Most people return to office work after about 2 weeks. Jobs with heavy physical work need longer.
When can I wear makeup?
Usually after the stitches are removed and the incisions have closed. Your nurse will confirm at your check-up.
When can I color my hair?
Wait until incisions are fully healed, usually at least 4–6 weeks.
About this page. Procedure details on this page come from Grand Plastic Surgery's published clinical information. Individual plans, surgery time and recovery vary and are confirmed only after an in-person examination with the operating surgeon. Last updated 2026-09-27.
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