Face lift

Most of us will experience aging by portraying its initial visible signs on our faces. A combination of loss in volume, loss in skin quality and gravity are to blame. Most patients express that their facial features do not reflect their youthful spirit and activity level and are keen to rejuvenate their facial features. There are various techniques all aiming for a smoother skin and tighter underlying tissues, removing excess skin in the process.

A physical examination will be performed of your facial structures – underlying skin structure, skin thickness, texture, and elasticity- as well as the extent of facial wrinkles and folds. This information will help in formulating a technical plan and the goals of the surgical procedure will be explained. The choice of technique will also depend on your view regarding the outcome you wish to achieve.

The facelift procedure continues to evolve. Various techniques are practiced with similarly reliable and durable outcomes. Surgery usually involves incisions in front of and to a variable degree behind the ear. The incision may extend into the scalp. Following the incision, the skin is undermined to allow tightening of deeper tissue. Liposuction of the neck may be performed in some. The excess skin is then removed and wound edges are approximated with fine suture material.

Fortunately, major complications are not often encountered. As with any surgery, risk of infection (very rare) and reaction to anaesthesia is always a possibility. Another potential complication during a face lift is the occurrence of a haematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin). Also injury to underlying structures (nerves and blood vessels) is possible, though usually temporary. The surgical scar is usually quite inconspicuous; however, this is not entirely predictable due to individual variations in healing.

The speed and extent of recovery varies greatly between patients. Use of intermittent ice-packs as well as elevation of the head is extremely helpful in reducing the initial post-operative swelling.  Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications should be avoided for the first few days after your surgery. Smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke delays the healing process. Once the dressings and drains are removed, do not be alarmed by any unevenness or temporary asymmetry – this is normal. Most swelling is usually in the first 24 to 48 hours. Stitches are removed within 7-10 days of the surgery. Bruising mostly resolves within 2 weeks. Numbness usually resolves within several months.Straining, bending, and lifting should be avoided.