Facelift
As we age, gravity and lifestyle can cause the skin, fat, and muscle in the face to move downwards. When this occurs, the cheeks begin to sag and lose volume and jowls become more noticeable, lines running from the nose to the corner of the mouth also become apparent, making us look tired.
What are the benefits?
A traditional facelift operation is performed to reposition the skin, fat and muscles of the face which have sagged as a result of aging, gravity and lifestyle. It is a very effective way of reversing the signs of aging. Following a facelift you are left with a fresher, more revitalised appearance restoring your confidence and self-esteem.
The procedure
The vast majority of facelift procedures produce a scar that runs in front of and behind the ear. The scars are designed to follow the skin’s natural creases and usually heal very well. They should be discreet enough to be invisible to others – although they may not escape the attention of your hairdresser. Incisions are made in the hairline and in front and behind your ear and in the hairline at the temple and neck. The skin of the face is then elevated and the underlying muscles are tightened and the skin is then re-draped. The excess skin is then removed and the wounds closed. Drains will be situated on either side of your head and remain in overnight, following your surgery and are removed the following day.
How long does the operation take?
Facelift Surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and takes approximately 3 hours.
How long do I stay in hospital?
You are booked into hospital for a 2 night stay.
What can I expect afterwards?
Your face will be swollen and feel quite tight following your surgery, this is normal and will resolve usually within 2-3 weeks. When your dressings are removed, your hair will be carefully washed and you may then return home. You will need to sleep with extra pillows for 3-4 days. You may be aware of numbness in front of the ear which can take some months to resolve. The scars, following facelift are very discreet and usually heal very well. For men considering a facelift, there are specific issues regarding the beard area of the skin as the repositioning of the skin may make it necessary for you to shave behind the ear and around the front of the ear. It may be possible to treat these areas with electrolysis or laser hair removal treatments.
What are the long term results?
You can expect the results of a facelift procedure to last between 5 and 10 years, unfortunately no cosmetic procedure can stop the natural aging process. To optimize your facial surgery you may wish to consider having a facelift combined with blepharoplasty/eye bag surgery as the eyes in particular do tend to show the tell-tale signs of ageing. Results following facelift reveal a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance but it is important to look after your skin using high factor sun protection as this will help to maintain your results.
What are the risks?
With any surgical procedure there are always associated risks. However, if your surgery is undertaken by a qualified plastic surgeon the risks are reduced, nonetheless, specific complications may occur. Such as the risk of infection which is reduced by taking preventative measures such as administering antibiotics both at the time of and following your surgery. However despite these measures mild infection is relatively common and can occur around the incision site, but usually subsides over a period of about 2 weeks.
The consultation
It is important for you to examine the reasons for undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure as it is unlikely to resolve any life issues you may have. Having surgery for someone else is not the basis from which to make a decision. Cosmetic surgery will certainly boost your self esteem but you do need to be realistic about your expectations. Cosmetic surgery will lead to marked improvements but you need to be aware that the end result of your surgery can and does take time and you need to allow your body to recover.
Our aim is to fully understand your concerns and desires before agreeing on a treatment plan which is in your best interest. At consultation your consultant surgeon will explain your treatment fully including any potential risks and complications. Your surgeon will also advise you on the most appropriate procedure for you and will also explain all aspects of your post-operative care.
If you would like to speak to one of our consultant surgeons, Mr Alan Park or Mr Sudip Ghosh, please do not hesitate to telephone or fill out our online form.