Case #7003
Face/Neck Lift
A woman in her 50s underwent a deep plane face and neck lift with Dr. Azadgoli. After photos are three months post-op.
A woman in her 50s underwent a deep plane face and neck lift. The deep plane technique repositions the deeper facial tissues rather than pulling on the skin, which is what gives the natural jawline and neck contour seen here. After photos were taken three months after surgery.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Discontinue blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) two weeks out. Acetaminophen remains safe; the full list is reviewed at pre-op.
- Nicotine in any form — cigarettes, vapes, patches, gum — paused six weeks before and six weeks after surgery. Nicotine narrows blood vessels and slows wound healing.
- Sleep elevated for the first week. Stock the kitchen with low-sodium soft foods, since chewing comfort and salt-driven swelling both matter early.
- Confirm a driver for surgery day and a companion who can stay through the first night.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Cold compresses, head elevated, low-talking the first 72 hours. Most bruising peaks at day 3 and starts to soften by day 5.
- Week 2
Visible bruising is mostly resolved by day 10. Sutures out by day 7. Patients return to indoor activities, low-impact only.
- Week 4
Residual swelling continues to refine. Most patients return to normal social and work life; light cardio begins.
- Week 6
The "back to normal" week for most patients. Final compression schedule transitions to optional.
- Month 3
Final swelling resolves on the deeper tissue planes. Most aesthetic refinements emerge between months 3 and 6.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Face/Neck Lift.
- Recovery follows the longest-recovery component of the combined plan
- Head elevated for sleeping for the first 2 weeks
- Cold compresses for the first 72 hours; no vigorous activity for 3 weeks
- Help at home recommended for the first week
- Medical-grade silicone sheeting on all facial incisions
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic after week 2
- SPF 50+ on the face for life
- LED light therapy weekly for 8 weeks
- Lymphatic drainage starting week 2
- Fractional laser on healed incisions after 3 months
- Skincare
Medical-grade skincare reintroduced at week 3 — gentle retinoid alternative first, full actives by month 2.
Active skincare resumes on a healing-friendly ramp after facial surgery.
