Planning a Facelift? Here’s When —and Why— Timing Matters
- David LeFave
- Apr 14
- 4 min read
Facelifts aren’t something you squeeze in between work meetings or right before a big event. This is a major investment—not just financially, but in your time and your comfort. And like anything important, the results are better when you plan ahead.
Whether you're traveling all summer, juggling a packed social calendar, or just want to avoid explaining swelling on Zoom, choosing the right season for your facelift is just as important as choosing the right surgeon.
At Dr. Robert Schwarcz’s offices in Manhattan and Rye, NY, we help patients plan their procedures around their real lives—so recovery is smoother, stress is lower, and results shine when it matters most.
WHY PLANNING AHEAD FOR A FACELIFT MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE
LIFE DOESN’T PAUSE—SO NEITHER SHOULD YOUR TIMING
People often come in asking, “How soon will I look normal?” or “Can I do this before my daughter’s wedding?” The answer depends on when you schedule surgery and how realistic your timeline is.
The truth? You should always allow at least 3 to 4 months between your facelift and any major life event (think weddings, reunions, family photos, red carpets—anything that’ll be immortalized).
Not because you’ll be bruised that long, but because:
Swelling takes time to fully go down
The result gradually settles into place
You want to feel confident, not just look okay
CHOOSING YOUR “OFF SEASON”
THE BEST TIME FOR A FACELIFT IS WHEN YOU HAVE TIME
There’s no universally perfect time for surgery—it’s all about what works for your lifestyle.
Here’s how patients typically plan it:
Winter Warriors: If you’re someone who slows down in the colder months, this can be an ideal time for a facelift. You’re indoors more, wearing scarves and hats, and the holiday season gives you built-in recovery time without raising questions.
Summer Schedulers: Teachers, parents with flexible childcare, or anyone with a lighter summer workload might find this the easiest time to recover. Just make sure you’re sun-protected, since post-op skin can be more sensitive to UV exposure.
No matter the season, you’ll need a solid 2–3 weeks off from work or major obligations. That’s not to say you’ll be laid up in bed—but you will need time to heal, rest, and avoid being “on” 24/7.
RECOVERY TIMELINE: WHAT TO EXPECT
IT’S A PROCESS—AND THAT’S A GOOD THING
Knowing what to expect takes the stress out of recovery. Here’s how it typically unfolds:
Days 1–7:Swelling and bruising are at their peak. You’ll be taking it easy, resting, and keeping your head elevated. Most sutures are removed by the end of this first week.
Week 2:Bruising starts to fade, swelling goes down. You may feel good enough to run errands or return to light activities, but you probably won’t be ready for big social events just yet.
Week 3:You’re entering the “no one would really notice” phase. Makeup can cover most residual discoloration, and you can start easing back into your normal routine.
Weeks 6–8:You’ll really start to see your results. The majority of swelling has mostly resolved, your face looks lifted and refreshed, and your confidence starts to catch up with the physical changes.
Month 6:This is the finish line. Final results are in, any lingering swelling has resolved, and the incisions have healed and faded. The result should feel completely natural—like it’s always been this way.
Dr. Schwarcz will be with you through every phase, adjusting care and expectations as needed. You’ll have multiple follow-ups, and yes—he’ll tell you when you’re ready to be seen in public again (or when it’s safe to book that photo shoot).
BONUS TIP: DON'T STACK TREATMENTS RIGHT BEFORE
If you’re also planning other treatments—like laser, filler, or injectables—be sure to give those some breathing room before or after your facelift. Dr. Schwarcz will guide you through the right sequence and timing to make sure every treatment complements the others instead of complicating your healing.
THINKING AHEAD MEANS FEELING CONFIDENT LATER
A facelift isn’t just about what you see in the mirror. It’s about how you feel showing up in the world. And that feeling is so much better when you give yourself the time and space to heal fully.
So if you’re considering surgery, start thinking about your calendar now. Where’s your slower season? When can you reasonably be “off the grid” for a few weeks?
Dr. Schwarcz will help you map it all out—so by the time your big event rolls around, your only focus will be enjoying it.
WHY CHOOSE DR. ROBERT SCHWARCZ
Dr. Schwarcz is known for two things: natural results and honest guidance. As a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, he approaches every facelift with surgical precision and artistic restraint.
Whether you’re planning around a wedding, a work promotion, or just a moment to do something for yourself, he’ll walk you through every detail of the process—so you’re never rushed, never surprised, and always supported.
With offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Rye, NY, Dr. Schwarcz provides discreet, top-tier care with results that speak for themselves.
COMPLEMENTARY SERVICES TO CONSIDER
Ready to start planning your facelift? Click the Request an Appointment button below to schedule your consultation with Dr. Schwarcz.
