The recovery time after chin lift surgery will vary depending on the extent of the procedures performed. If a chin lift is done in conjunction with another procedure, such as a face lift, this will extend the recovery time and physical restrictions. Otherwise, a chin lift is a relatively simple and safe procedure that requires minimal downtime from daily activities.

When a chin lift is performed as a solo procedure, patients with no indications of complications are typically permitted to go home the same day after the anesthesia has worn off. It is advised that patients limit their physical activities as much as possible for a few days to allow the body to heal. Physicians will also advise patients to follow a restricted diet of liquids or soft foods and are advised to reduce activity in the jaw area.

Utilizing cold compresses is an excellent way to stave off the minor discomforts that follow chin lift procedures. This natural remedy reduces swelling, minimizes bruising, and works wonders as a pain reducer. Bruising and swelling is typical, and may last several days and up to a couple of weeks after surgery. Symptoms that occur longer should be discussed with a physician immediately.

When leaving the hospital after surgery, patients will typically have stitches in place that are covered with gauze dressing, which must remain in place for two to three days. Once the gauze is removed, it is detrimental that the surgical area remains clean and dry in order to prevent risk of infection. Wearing make-up products is not advised and could cause serious problems or reactions in the surgical site.

Some surgeons will request a follow-up visit within a few days of the procedure, and others may allow patients with no complications to wait until it is time to remove the sutures, which typically is ten days after the surgery.

Any skin discoloration will fade to some extent, and scarring from the surgery will reduce in time. There are a plethora of skin creams that are touted to reduce scars and help with minimizing any redness, and is an option for chin lift patients to consider.

A good overall skin care regimen may keep skin in the neck area more firm, and allow the surgery’s effects to last longer. Other patients that have had this type of surgery commonly add a regiment of neck exercises to their daily routine, with the same hopes of extending the procedures benefits.