|
The effects of aging start to become visible after 25 years of age however, person age at different times and in different ways. Face lift surgery gives a face a more youthful appearance by tightening loose facial muscles and skin.
The procedure
After cleansing with an antiseptic solution and your face is outlined with a marking pen, the typical incisions are made from the temple at the top of the ear, front of the ear, behind the ear, and back into the hairline. Some incisions are also made underneath the chin. The skin is cut beneath the fat. The facial skin is the pulled and the excess skin is removed. The thin fascia (SMAS fascia of the face) is also lifted and pulled back to provide support to the skin. Fine stitches are used to promote healing and reduced scarring. A small tube is placed to drain the excess fluids. Sterile dressings and bandages are applied.
The operation time
The surgery takes 4-6 hours.
Face Lift : Area of Dissection
Anesthesia
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
Hospitalization
One night in the hospital after surgery.
Pain
Post op pain is less than in generally expected; however, you will receive IV analgesics immediately after surgery for a short period.
Expectation after surgery
There is a discomfort under the bandages. The drain tubes are removed 24 hours after surgery. You will keep your head elevated with extra pillows to reduce swelling. Often there is some bruising. There should be no major pain or swelling. Typically, the face is numb in some areas this is due to damage to the small sensory nerve fibers, but they will grow back within 12 weeks. Talking or moving the jaw should be avoided during early post-op period. The diet should be soft for the first 48 hours.
Most patients are able to return to work in 10-14 days; however, sex and exercise should be avoided for a month after surgery.
A good candidate for a facelift
Ideal candidate:
- Realistic in their expectation
- Psychologically stable
- Good physical health
- Persons in their late 30s and 40s
Possible risks and complications
- Hematoma (blood collection under the skin) is not uncommon; however, most are small and heal quickly.
- Infection is rarely a risk of having a face lift.
- Facial palsy from facial nerve injury is a very rare complication.
** A smoker must quit two weeks before the surgery and two weeks after surgery.
|
|
