Facelift Surgery

Facelift surgery is a procedure aimed at reducing the effects of aging through the repositioning of the skin and muscle around the face and neck area. The procedure is generally the preference of those who wish to remove wrinkles which appear as the skin ages. This may result in the patient looking younger, whilst also offering a solution to those who feel unsatisfied with the appearance of looser skin, and less defined facial structure.

When considering face lift surgery there are a number of variations in which to consider. The choice of procedure may well be affected by factors such as the degree of correction necessary, the facial structure of the patient and the preferences of the consultant.

The surgeon will initially make an incision within the hairline just above the ear and follows the incision around the ear. This is the preferred incision point as it is concealed well after surgery. The skin is separated from the underlying tissue and the excess fat and skin is then trimmed and removed before the skin tightened and repositioned back in place. The resulting affect is a more youthful appearance to the face.

Preparation

Before under going facelift surgery consideration and preparation are vital elements. Those who are considering the procedure should clearly outline their targets, and openly discuss this with their consultant. Those who are considering the procedure should be aware of the risks and complications that can arise, as well as the practical changes that are needed prior to surgery. Patients are required to stop taking medication which alters the blood viscosity; including aspirin, birth control and hormone correction. In preparation of surgery it is also highly recommended that patients avoid smoking, to aid recovery and better wound healing.

After the operation

Following the surgery, a support dressing is applied to the face in order to reduce the risk of Haematoma in the wound. The patient will then spend around one hour in recovery post surgery whilst checks on bleeding are maintained. The patient then returns to the ward for a two night stay.

Once home it is recommended that the patient rests in an upright position whilst avoiding movement in the neck. Those who choose to under go the procedure are restricted to a liquid diet and encouraged to apply ice packs to reduce swelling.

Patients are prescribed with anti biotics for several days and can expect the remaining stitches to be removed within five to seven days. It would be normal for a full recovery to take in excess of two weeks.

Recovering from facelift surgery

• Patients should avoid smoking as well as any exposure to passive smoking prior to and after the procedure.
• Consumption should be reserved to liquids and soft diet until twenty four hours after the operation.
• Post surgery the patient should remain in a upright position for twenty four hours to avoid any unnecessary strain.

For the large majority of adults who under go facelift surgery, the results will are very successful with no negative consequences encountered. Despite this, the potential for complications remain, as is the case for almost all surgical procedures.

Risks and complications

• Swelling and pain may affect one side of the face as a result of a Haematoma. This will usually occur within forty eight hours of surgery and may require the reopening of stitches.
• Face lift surgery may also cause nerve damage, affecting the patient's ability to demonstrate facial expression. This is unlikely to cause lasting damage beyond six months.
• Infection is another risk associated with this surgical procedure.
• Patients who have under gone facelift surgery may also run the risk of permanent scarring.
• As a result of the incision line which the surgeon performs for the operation, hair loss may occur. In the instance where this occurs, it is more likely that any loss will be restricted to the incision line.

By nature, all medical procedures carry an element of risk. While the majority of patients do not experience any complication during our facelift procedures, before embarking on any medical procedure, it is advisable to consult fully with the McLean Academy so that our qualified staff can suitably discuss any risk or concerns that your procedure may pose.