Face lift is the most popular plastic surgery procedure that helps reduce wrinkles and facial sagging caused by aging. The term "face lift" is literal since this procedure actually lifts the skin off the face to allow the plastic surgeon to tighten the skin tissues and to reposition the tightened skin.
Anesthesia is an integral part of every type of surgery. With face lift, a patient should expect general anesthesia since the procedure is quite invasive.
Face lift requires several hours which allow the plastic surgeon to remove the fat from the face. The incisions are made along the hairline which conceals them if and when there will be scarring.
A patient who underwent a full face lift is recommended to stay overnight in the hospital to allow him/her to rest and for the plastic surgeon to monitor his/her initial progress.
A patient's face is bandaged and it will be removed in a day or two after the procedure. When the bandage is removed, the stitches are still visible. In 5 to 7 days, the stitches will be removed.
After-surgery effects of face lift include pain, discomfort, swelling and soreness. Applying cold compress is advisable to alleviate the swelling. Taking prescription pain killers can help ease the pain and soreness.
It is also advisable to rest and to stay indoors during the first couple of weeks to protect the face from harmful UV rays from the sun.
Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol and applying cosmetics on the healing facial skin to prevent irritation and slow healing.
Risks involved in face lift
Reaction to anesthesia
Infection
Bleeding or hematoma
Hair loss
Bruising
In order to understand and prepare for face lift, it is advisable for patients to plan and discuss the pros and cons of the procedure with a certified plastic surgeon. The more information you'll have, the better.
A successful face lift relies on both the patient and the surgeon. Overall health condition, mental and physical preparedness are also essential in benefiting from a face lift.