When is it really safe to start weight training again after a face and neck lift?

I am pleased that you asked this question because it highlights the fact that there is no clear consensus among surgeons when it comes to post-operative care. Most agree that strenuous activity in the first two weeks following face-lift seems ill-advised. After that there is considerable variability.
I encourage my patients to walk and 'move about' beginning as early as one week following surgery. At two weeks, I permit my patients to begin light exercise.  They are advised  to respect pain and to modify any exercise that creates a feeling of intense "pulling or strain" in the face or neck, such as with some Yoga positions. However, I do think that light (careful) stretching and elongation of the neck can be beneficial if properly done. At four weeks I think most patients can resume their normal exercise programs.  As with any period of inactivity, it is always best to begin gradually and slowly increase the intensity of exercise over time.  I wish you the best.

Good question. Every surgeon may have differing opinions on this question.  I tell my patients they can proceed with light, moderate exercise 2 weeks following facelift surgery and then return to their regular exercise routine, 4 weeks post-op.Best of luck,Dr Philip Solomon 

Hello, thank you for the recent question! I tell my patients to refrain from any heavy exercising for 3 weeks post-op.  Each surgeon will have his or her preference so I would recommend following their instructions as they know what type of surgery they preformed on you.  If you are having any discomfort it never hurts to wait longer then the instructed time to allow more healing.  Best of luck!