Undergoing a SMAS facelift is a transformative step toward rejuvenating your facial appearance. At The Plus Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul, world-class surgeons deliver outstanding, natural-looking results using advanced SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) facelift techniques. But understanding the recovery process is just as important as the procedure itself.
In this guide, we break down what patients can expect during each stage of recovery, including post-operative care, timelines, and helpful tips to ensure a smooth healing journey at The Plus Clinic.
🌟 Overview of SMAS Facelift Recovery
The SMAS facelift involves lifting not only the skin but also the deeper muscular layers of the face. While this technique yields more long-lasting and natural results, it also requires a well-managed recovery process to ensure the best outcomes.
Thanks to The Plus Clinic’s minimally invasive techniques, experienced surgeons, and personalized recovery care, most patients report a smooth and surprisingly comfortable recovery.
🔹 Immediate Post-Op: First 1–3 Days
What to expect:
- Mild to moderate swelling and bruising, especially around the jawline, cheeks, and under the chin
- Sensation of tightness in the face or neck area
- Compression bandage or face wrap applied to support healing tissues
- Surgical drains (if used) are usually removed within 24–48 hours
What The Plus Clinic provides:
- Private recovery suite with monitoring by skilled nursing staff
- Cold compresses and lymphatic massage to reduce swelling
- Early mobility guidance to prevent stiffness
- Pain is typically manageable with prescription medication
🔹 Early Recovery: Days 4–7
What to expect:
- Swelling begins to reduce; bruising may still be visible
- Stitches are removed around Day 5–7 (unless absorbable sutures are used)
- Facial movements may still feel tight, but discomfort improves
The Plus Clinic support includes:
- Follow-up appointments for wound care and scar management
- Application of scar-reducing products (silicone gel or ointments)
- Nutritional and hydration support to aid skin healing
- Optional LED therapy to accelerate recovery and minimize inflammation
🔹 Week 2: Getting Back to Normal
What to expect:
- Most swelling and bruising significantly improve
- You’ll likely feel confident enough to go out in public with light makeup
- Residual tightness or numbness may remain but will gradually fade
Tips from The Plus team:
- Wear sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure
- Sleep with head elevated to minimize swelling
- Avoid strenuous exercise or bending over for another week
- Resume most normal, non-strenuous activities
🔹 Weeks 3–4: Natural Look Returns
What to expect:
- Your new facial contours become more visible
- Minor residual swelling continues to resolve
- Incisions begin to fade into natural creases and hairline
The Plus Clinic may recommend:
- Gentle skin care and massage techniques
- Non-invasive skin tightening (if needed) for refinement
- PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy or skin boosters to enhance healing and glow
🔹 One Month and Beyond: Final Results
By 4 to 6 weeks, most patients:
- See full, natural-looking results
- Feel fully recovered and return to their regular lifestyle
- Receive long-term care tips from the clinic to extend results for years
What sets The Plus apart is their ongoing support:
- Scar management for 6–12 months post-op
- Yearly touch-up plans or skin maintenance treatments
- Virtual check-ins for international patients
🧳 For International Patients
The Plus Clinic supports medical tourists with:
- Recovery accommodations with English-speaking staff
- Transportation to and from appointments
- Post-op care guides translated into multiple languages
- Telehealth follow-ups after returning home
📅 Recovery Timeline at a Glance
| Timeframe | Recovery Milestones |
|---|---|
| Day 1–3 | Swelling, compression bandage, drains removed |
| Day 4–7 | Sutures removed, swelling decreases |
| Week 2 | Bruising fades, return to daily activities |
| Week 3–4 | Look more natural, incisions fade |
| Month 1–2 | Full results visible, resume full routine |
