After you’ve done your research, picked a plastic surgeon, and decided to move forward with a facelift, your plastic surgeon will carefully explain process to you in detail. Generally, there are pre-surgical considerations, diagnostic testing, and medications. Your plastic surgeon may have specific instructions for you to follow the day of the surgery including medications that you should take. He / she will provide you with details on the anesthesia used and the effects it may cause. You will also be given directions on post surgery care and follow-up.
Prior to moving forward with a face lift, you will be asked to sign consent forms. This assures your surgeon that you completely understand the process and that you are aware of any risks and complications that may occur.
It is important that you know what risks are associated with undergoing a facelift. Your plastic surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail. Typically, risks for a face lift include infection, numbness, bleeding beneath the skin (hematoma), facial nerve injury with weakness, facial asymmetry, hair loss at the incisions, skin loss with scarring. Any and all risks for your specific case along with those associated with anesthesia will be fully disclosed prior to your consent.
Since getting a facelift is an invasive process, it’s natural to feel nervous. You may be anxious due to stress or just excited for anticipated results. Whatever the case, it’s important that you share these feelings with your surgeon and make sure all your questions and concerns are addressed. You need to feel comfortable about the process in order to achieve the best results possible.
Facelift – What to Expect
A facelift can be performed in your plastic surgeon’s accredited office-based surgical facility, an ambulatory surgical facility, or a hospital. Anesthesia may be necessary. Your plastic surgeon and his / her staff will be there every step of the way to ensure you have a comfortable and safe experience. After the procedure, you will be asked to follow up so your healing can be properly monitored.
Facelift – Following Surgery
Following your surgery, a bandage will be wrapped around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. A thin tube may also be needed to drain any excess blood that might collect under your skin. It is important that you have an accompanying family member or friend to take you home. Before you are released, you will be given directions on how to care for your wounds for proper healing. You will also be told how to care for the surgical site, what medications to take orally or to apply in order to help with the healing process and reduce any chances of infection. Since the surgery is not a natural process for your body, you will be asked to look for certain changes in your wounds or your overall health that may be indications you aren’t healing the way you should be. Be sure to follow up with at scheduled appointments so your healing can be properly monitored.