Swelling and bruising are the part of recovery patients worry about most — usually because they look dramatic in the first days. The reassuring truth is that they follow a predictable pattern for most people.
This is general information, not medical advice. Your own surgeon's instructions always come first.
Days 1–3: the build-up
Swelling and bruising typically increase over the first two to three days. Many people look their most swollen on day two or three. This is the body's normal response to surgery.
- Keep your head raised above your heart, including when you sleep.
- Use cold compresses for around ten minutes at a time, several times a day, if your clinic recommends them.
- Avoid bending forward, lifting and big facial movements.
- Choose low-salt, mild food — salty food can make swelling feel worse.
Days 4–7: things start to move
Swelling usually begins to ease. Bruises change colour — purple to green to yellow — as they fade. Many clinics recommend switching to warm compresses from about day four or five to help bruising clear, once active bleeding has stopped.
Week 2: most of the drama is over
Major swelling usually settles over one to two weeks. It tends to clear from the top of the face downwards, so the lower face, jaw and neck can stay puffy for longer — that's expected.
Months 1–6: the last few percent
Mild residual swelling — the kind only you notice — can take three to six months to fully go. Firmness, slight asymmetry, tingling or tightness often settle over around six months.
Small things that help
- Drink plenty of water and eat soft, protein-rich food (see gentle Korean comfort foods).
- Walk gently around your room or hotel — light movement helps circulation. Save exercise for later.
- No alcohol or smoking — both slow healing; clinics commonly advise avoiding them for at least a month.
- Avoid heat — saunas, hot baths and hot food or drinks.
- Be patient with photos. Day-three selfies are not your result.
When swelling is not normal — call your clinic
- Swelling that is sudden, severe or much worse on one side.
- Bleeding that keeps increasing or will not stop with gentle pressure.
- A high fever, spreading redness or pus.
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain — call 119 immediately.
Recovering in Incheon?
Keep your clinic's written instructions on your phone with our care guide, and order soft, mild meals to your hotel from the in-room dining menu.