Facelifts are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures.
Prior to undergoing any form of surgery, it is important to know everything you can about the procedure. So, before booking a facelift, take a look at the answers to some of the most common questions about facelifts below.
What is a facelift and what does it involve?
Facelifts, otherwise referred to as Rhytidectomy, are designed to give the face a much younger appearance. The aim is always to make you look refreshed, but not different. The results should always appear natural.
Typically, a facelift will involve elevating the skin and tightening the underlying muscles and tissues that support the face. Fat may be redistributed to restore volume where it has been lost. Any excess skin will be removed before the flaps are sutured closed.
While a facelift can tighten up the skin, it doesn’t necessarily eliminate fine lines and wrinkles. Other treatments, including non-surgical injectables like dermal fillers, may be required to address these signs of ageing.
What is the recovery process like?
When you undergo a facelift, you will usually be able to return home the same day. Dressings will be used to protect the face and they will need to be worn until you go for your first check-up.
It is common to experience some level of discomfort for the first week. This will disappear over time and can be managed with over the counter pain relief if needed. You’ll need to avoid light activity for a couple of weeks, and strenuous activity for up to six weeks. Bruising and swelling may also still be present for a couple of weeks after the procedure.
What risks and complications should I be aware of?
Facelifts are generally considered a low-risk procedure. However, like any surgery, there are some risks and complications you need to be aware of.
The most common risks of a facelift include bleeding, infection, bruising and swelling and asymmetry. There is also the risk of poor wound healing, particularly in patients who smoke.
Your surgeon will be able to tell you which risks and complications you are susceptible to during your consultation.
How long do results typically last?
One of the best things about facelifts is they can help you to look up to ten years younger. However, it’s important to know that the results aren’t permanent. You may be able to cover it up, but you cannot stop the ageing process completely. So, over time your face will once again start to show the signs of ageing unless you undergo an additional facelift procedure.
How long the results of your facelift last will depend upon a lot of factors. However, you will always look younger than if you’d not undergone the procedure and it is safe to have further facial rejuvenation surgery in the future.
Facelifts are commonly requested by patients, but many don’t realise what they can and cannot do. The above are some of the most important things to know about the procedure before deciding whether or not it’s right for you.
If you have more questions about facelifts, the procedure or to discover if you are an ideal candidate, book a consultation with Mr Horlock today.
