All surgeries, even necessary ones, come with risks. This is especially true for intricate procedures like a facelift. While there are ways to reduce the risks, first you need to understand exactly what they are.

What Recovery Difficulties Can Occur After a Facelift?

Facelift surgery can dramatically improve your appearance. But, like all surgical procedures, it is not without its potential challenges during recovery. Each person’s body responds differently to surgery, which can lead to various difficulties, such as allergic reactions to medications, excessive swelling, and facial nerve damage.

Here’s some of the most common recovery difficulties you might face:

Allergic Reactions to Medications and Anaesthesia

While rare, allergic reactions to the medications or anaesthesia used during facelift surgery can occur. Symptoms may range from mild skin rashes and itching, to severe reactions, like difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness. If you’re allergic to any medications, it’s crucial to inform your surgeon beforehand. Always pay attention to any unusual symptoms after your surgery and contact your healthcare provider immediately if any arise.

Anaesthesia, while generally safe, can sometimes trigger allergic reactions. These reactions might be mild, causing symptoms like a rash or itching, or more severe, leading to breathing difficulties. If you’ve ever had an adverse reaction to anaesthesia, ensure your surgeon is aware of this before the surgery.

Excessive Swelling

Swelling is a normal part of the healing process after facelift surgery. However, sometimes the swelling can become excessive and lead to discomfort. It usually peaks around two to three days after the surgery, before gradually subsiding.

Cool compresses, keeping your head elevated, and avoiding strenuous activity can all help manage the swelling. If it becomes severe, or doesn’t start to reduce after a few days, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

Facial Nerve Damage

Facelift surgery involves the manipulation of skin and underlying tissues, which can sometimes result in damage to the facial nerves. This can lead to weakness or numbness in the affected areas. While most nerve injuries from facelift surgeries are temporary, some may be permanent. It’s essential to discuss this potential risk with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

Reduce the Risks with an Expert Surgeon

Choosing an experienced, certified surgeon can significantly reduce the risks associated with facelift surgery. These professionals are skilled in performing the procedure, minimising potential complications, and providing excellent aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery.

Mr Nigel Horlock is a board-certified consultant cosmetic surgeon who has carried out a significant number of successful facelift procedures. Schedule an appointment now to learn more about the risks and complications, alongside what to expect from your facelift results.