Facelift - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A facelift is a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves the removal of the deep creases and fat deposits in the face and neck to hide the signs of aging. It will not give a person a totally different appearance and it will not slow the aging process. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about facelift.
I want to have a facelift. What should I do first?
Patients will have to go through an initial consultation. During the facelift surgery consultation, the cosmetic surgeon will know what their patients want to achieve from the surgery. A face evaluation is also done to assess the skin and bones. The patient will also be checked for any medical conditions that may cause problems during and after the procedure. Techniques, risks and the financial costs will also be discussed.
How should I prepare for this procedure?
Patients should strictly follow the specific instructions given to them by their surgeon. Guidelines on eating, drinking, and taking vitamins and medications will be provided. Patients should stop smoking one to two weeks prior to their surgery. Smoking may prevent normal blood flow of the body and may interfere with the healing process.
Is a facelift procedure an outpatient or inpatient procedure?
This is mostly an outpatient procedure although it can also be an inpatient procedure depending on the complications or the risk of the patient to develop them.
Where is the surgery performed?
A facelift procedure may be performed at a surgeon’s private clinical facility, at an outpatient surgery center or at a hospital.
How long is this procedure? Will I feel discomfort after?
The length of time varies. The procedure may take two or three hours or longer, depending on the complexity. You may feel a little bit of discomfort after the procedure but it can be lessened by taking pain medications that are prescribed by the surgeon.
How long is the recovery period?
Bandages may be removed after a few days to a week and the stitches are usually removed by the surgeon after five days. Post operative care instructions should be followed strictly to speed up the recovery period. It usually takes one month to six months to heal and for the incisions to disappear.
What are the risks?
Risks include excessive bleeding, development of infection, skin loss, scarring, hair loss, facial nerve damage, skin disorders and discolorations, and cardiac or pulmonary problems due to increase in blood clots.