Preparation for a Surgical Facelift
A facelift is quite a safe operation for suitable patients. There are different types of face lift depending on the patient's problem. A surgical facelift can be performed alone, or with other cosmetic procedures.
If you think that you may benefit, or you have any query, you should arrange a consultation with a quailed surgeon.
Your Consultation
Your surgeon will discuss your goals for the surgery and explain your probable outcome of treatment. He will also tell you whether you are suitable for a face lift. He will explain the procedure fully and all the possible complications.
Preparing for Your Surgery
It is advisable to:
- Stop the contraceptive pill six weeks prior to surgery if possible and ensure you take other precautions.
- Stop Aspirin one week prior to surgery.
- Shampoo the hair the night before the operation.
- Remember that excessive smoking impairs healing.
- Take Arnica tablets to help reduce swelling and bruising as instructed.
The Procedure
The skin incision is made starting above the ears well behind the hairline, running down the top of the ear, then following the contour of the ear and round its lobe, then up in the groove behind the ear and backwards into the hairy scalp. The skin of the temple, cheeks and sometimes the neck is freed and the tightening is carried out upwards and backwards. Surplus skin is cut away. The underlying muscle and fascia is tightened. The skin is repaired to the original excision site.
There are various modifications to this procedure. It is usual practice to carry out liposuction of the neck and chin area simultaneously. In younger patients, a mini procedure called an "S" lift is carried out. Your hair is not shaved in any of these procedures. In general the scars following a face lift are hidden within the hairline, above and behind the ears. Where the scar lies in front of the ear, it is fine and is rarely conspicuous.
The Limitatations
Facelift will have no effect in improving the quality of your skin or fine lines and creasing around the lips and eyes. Other procedures such as chemical peeling and laser resurfacing should be considered for this.
The Complications
This is, in general a safe operation. However, some complications must be considered. Although the incisions heal well, the possibility of excessive scarring must be considered.
The nerve responsible for moving part of the face can be damaged, causing paralysis of the affected muscle. Bleeding, infection, loss of skin or hair are other possible complications. Numbness of the ear lobe is another possible complication as a result of damage to the nerve. Your surgeon will discuss this with you in detail at your consultation.
The Recovery
There is minimal discomfort following a face lift. Swelling and bruising can last from seven to ten days. A support dressing will be worn as instructed. All sutures would be removed by the tenth day. Make up can be applied after the fifth day.
Strenuous activity is restricted for six weeks following surgery
