Facelift Surgery

Irrespective of the facelift procedure, all of them are designed to remove the sagging skin and improve the skin tone.

The majority of facelift procedures require either local or general anesthesia. The time of the procedure is variable depending on the extent of revision and reconstruction but in most cases, average about 90-120 minutes.

Cosmetic surgeons have designed ingenuous ways to hide the surgical scars. All incisions for the face lift are hidden by the natural creases. The skin incisions are hidden either on the temples, in front or at the edge of the ear or behind the ear

The surgeon then separates the skin and muscles of the face from the deeper facial tissues.

In the open surgical procedures, the skin may be tightened or reshaped by either removing the excess skin and or muscles.

When the surgery has been extensive and it is expected that there may be swelling or blood collection underneath the skin, the surgeon may leave small plastic tubes (Drains) to remove this fluid. The drains limit the swelling and help decrease the swelling after surgery. The drains are usually removed in a few days

Some minor face lifts can be done under local anesthesia also.

Recovery after Facelift Surgery

After every facelift procedure, some degree of facial swelling is common. The swelling may occur on the eyelids and especially where the incisions are made. In all cases, there is a loose dressing applied to the face area.

Some physicians apply a plastic compression garment after surgery to help limit the swelling and improve the skin tone.

Pain of mild to moderate intensity is common after the procedure. An odd ache over the face is present for at least a few days after the procedure. The pain is easily controlled with over the counter pain medications.

Soon after surgery, it is not recommended that one participate in heavy exercise for at least 4-6 weeks.

Most individuals delay all social and professional activities for at least 3-4 weeks.

Immediately after the surgery, the texture of the skin is not smooth and may feel rough for at least a few months after the procedure.