According to 2020 data, professionals performed cosmetic surgeries on more than five million Americans. A facelift is one of the most popular of these procedures as it is a procedure that reverses the signs of aging, such as wrinkles, crown lines, and reduced skin elasticity.
This in-depth guide outlines all you need to know about facelift. Read on.
Understanding the Facelift
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is cosmetic surgery designed to eliminate excess facial skin. Typically, it removes creases on your mouth and helps tighten your jawline’s loose skin.
Depending on your treatment plan, your professional may also remove excess skin and fat under your chin and neck.
Do you notice aging signs like wrinkles and loose skin impacting your appearance? When those characteristics are present, then it is time for a facelift.
Candidacy for a Facelift
Like other surgical procedures, the facelift involves possible risks, and not everyone is an appropriate candidate. The best way to know whether you’re fit for a facelift is to consult a professional. During the initial consultation, they evaluate your facial skin and tissues to determine whether a facelift is the right solution for your needs. Depending on their recommendations, they may also recommend combination techniques, like neck lift surgery, eyelid surgery, brow lift surgery, or non-surgical treatments.
A qualified surgeon takes a medical exam to know your eligibility. They look at your medical history and advise you accordingly. Here are things your professional evaluates:
- General skin condition
- Allergies
- Alcohol use
- Cigarette smoking
- Blood clotting
- Blood pressure
What Is the Recovery Like After Facelift Surgery?
Whenever you undergo a surgical procedure, it’s crucial to take time and recover. Allowing your body to rest ensures you heal faster and avoid complications. After a facelift, expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
These symptoms subside in two days for most patients. Your professional offers medication to enhance your comfort during the initial recovery period.
Typically, you are good to resume work two weeks after the surgery, but experts advise you to avoid strenuous activities for at least four weeks following the procedure.
Before a facelift, your surgeon gives you specific instructions, depending on your individualized needs. This includes information about a follow-up appointment and things to keep after the surgery. It’s critical to follow all the instructions to help with quick recovery.
Exercising After a Facelift
During facelift surgery, your surgeon makes incisions along the lower face and neck. As most exercises target these areas, returning to your regular exercise regimen is not advisable soon after the surgery.
Exercising too soon following facelift surgery can cause multiple complications. These may include harming surgery sutures or reopening the incisions. As you heal, cardio, straining, and heavy lifting can stress the surgical sites. This could lead to infections, bleeding, more prominent scars, and other complications.
While you may feel mentally and physically okay soon after a facelift, you want to ensure safety throughout your recovery. This is the best way to avoid compromising the results after the surgery.
Essential FAQs
How Should I Prepare for a Facelift?
Preparations for a facelift are similar to those of other forms of cosmetic procedures. During the initial consultation, your professional asks you for a pre-surgical evaluation and blood examination.
Depending on your situation, they may ask you to:
- Stop taking some medications or change the dosage as you wait for a facelift
- Apply particular facial products before the surgery
- Stop using anti-inflammatory pain relievers, aspirin, and other herbal supplements to minimize the risk of bruising and bleeding.
How Can I Find a Reliable Facelift Surgeon?
When looking for a facelift surgeon, you want a professional who can cater to your personalized needs. Look for an expert with the necessary qualifications. These may include certifications by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery or the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures your surgeon has the expertise and required education standards to uphold best practices.
Are There Possible Complications?
Typically, facelift surgery is safe if you seek services from a qualified and experienced surgeon. Following the given instructions is the best way to avoid complications and risks, such as:
- Thickening and widening of scars
- Tissue death or skin necrosis
- Hair loss around the surgical sites
- Infection
- Hematoma
- Anesthesia complications
- Temporary facial nerve damage
How Can I Improve My Facelift Surgery Results
If you want to get long-lasting results, here are essential tips:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Eating a balanced and nutritionally dense diet
- Getting plenty of sleep
- Protecting your skin
- Moisturizing your face