Most asked questions about a facelift
May 14, 2020Hello to all my readers, in this article I will give some answers to the most asked questions about a face lift.
- What Will My Recovery Experience Be?
Right after a facelift surgery, bandages will be around your face to reduce the swelling. The first days of recovery are spent with your face elevated which is needed to help with circulation and any possible inflammation. Ice or cold compresses must be used to reduce the swelling. Ice is more effective than cold compresses. The normal time to have your stitches removed is approximately eight days after the surgery. It is recommended to continue elevating your head and icing during the entire recovery time because bruising and swelling can last between 5 to 8 days. Full healing will occur over several weeks. Facial numbness and bruising will dissipate rapidly and you can go back to your regular physical activities when the time is right for you.
- How long will I be under anesthesia?
The length of your operation will depend on the specific surgery you’re having. A facelift alone generally lasts approximately 3 hours. It can be a little longer if combined with a necklift, eyelid lift, forehead lift, cheek implants, chin implant, nose surgery or the like.
- Will I Have Noticeable Scars?
Incisions are made normally at the start of your hairline, temple, and continues behind the earlobe. Incisions are very small and typically made in natural creases and become virtually unnoticeable after a few months. If your procedure involves a neck lift, a small incision may also be made underneath your chin. This scar too will also fade significantly over time.
- How do I Prepare?
A physical examination will be done by your plastic surgeon prior to the procedure, along with blood work and an EKG if you are over 45 years of age for most doctors. The age for an EKG will vary depending on your doctor’s requirements. It is recommended not to smoke or take anti-inflammatory medications several days prior to your operation. Your doctor will give you complete pre-surgery instructions.
- What Can I Expect During Consultation?
Your pre-surgery consultation prepares you for your procedures. Your doctor will have a complete discussion with you and all of your questions will be answered. The surgeon will examine your facial features and review your medical history. Your treatment goals will be fully discussed and the doctor will proceed based upon your wishes with the goal of achieving the results you expect.
- How Much Time Should I Take off from work?
Three weeks is generally enough time. If your work is not strenuous, you may decide to return to work in the second week. If you perform a more strenuous job, you can add a little more time if you wish. Your plastic surgeon will give you more information about this during your pre-surgery consultation.
- What Should I Look for in a Surgeon?
The surgeon should be board certified and accredited by a medical board of plastic and reconstructive surgeons. This ensures they have the training and experience needed.
- Will This Last Longer Than Fillers?
Fillers are injections made to last from 6 months to two years depending on the brand and kind of fillers. The effects of a facelift is considered to be permanent and can last many years or a lifetime.
- How Old Should I Be?
The average age for this surgery is 45-65 years old, but earlier or later in age is certainly normal. In fact, face lifts are successfully done on patients in their 70s or 80s.
- Will My Hair Be Shaved for Surgery?
Not usually, but it depends on the kind of facelift you are having done. In the average mid-to-lower facelift it is not necessary to have your hair shaved, but if having a forehead lift along with the face lift, a small amount of hair may be removed along the front hairline. This should not be of concern because, once the skin is tightened and pulled, the shaved area will not be visible.
I hope this article is helpful to all my readers considering having a facelift procedure and having so many questions on their minds.
Here are good resources of information about having your procedures done in Costa Rica. It is a major destination for plastic surgery. The prices are very low and the surgeons are exceptional:
Here is an excellent surgery recovery inn while having plastic surgery in Costa Rica:
In upcoming blogs, I will give you more tips and advice about health and happiness when planning plastic surgery.
