The Most Common Facelift Questions Answered

Posted on: February 13, 2023

What is the duration of a face lift?

The duration of a face lift can vary depending on the type of procedure being performed. Generally, a traditional face lift can take between two and four hours to complete.

Which facelift procedure is the most effective?

The most effective facelift procedure is the deep plane facelift. This procedure is considered the most comprehensive and effective facelift procedure because it addresses the deep layers of the facial structure, including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and the deep facial ligaments. This procedure can help to restore a more youthful appearance by providing a more natural-looking lift and contour to the face.

Woman in her 50s - face photo

How uncomfortable is a face lift?

A face lift can be uncomfortable, but it depends on the individual’s pain tolerance. Generally, the procedure is done under general anesthesia, which can help reduce discomfort. After the procedure, patients may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising. Most of these side effects can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.

What potential complications can arise from a face lift?

  1. Infection
  2. Fluid accumulation
  3. Scarring
  4. Nerve damage
  5. Hair loss
  6. Skin discoloration
  7. Unsatisfactory results
  8. Blood clots
  9. Skin necrosis
  10. Asymmetry

Which facelift results in the most natural look?

The endoscopic facelift is considered to be the most natural-looking facelift procedure. This procedure involves the use of tiny incisions and an endoscope (a small camera) to access and tighten deep facial tissues. This results in a more natural-looking result with less swelling and bruising.

What are the benefits of getting a facelift?

How long does the results of a facelift last?

What potential risks should I be aware of before getting a facelift?

Why do I still have jowls after the facelift procedure?

What are the benefits of getting a facelift?

1. Improved facial contours: A facelift can help to reduce sagging skin, reduce wrinkles, and provide a more youthful, contoured appearance.

2. Improved facial symmetry: Facelifts can help to restore symmetry to the face, creating a more balanced look.

3. Improved self-confidence: Many people report feeling more confident after getting a facelift, as their appearance is improved.

4. Improved facial tone: Facelifts can help to tighten and tone sagging facial muscles, creating a more youthful, toned appearance.

5. Reduced signs of aging: Facelifts can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, helping to make the face look younger and more refreshed.

How long does the results of a facelift last?

The results of a facelift can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on the individual’s skin type and lifestyle.

Women Front View - Photo - in her early 50s

What potential risks should I be aware of before getting a facelift?

1. Infection: Facelift surgery carries the risk of infection at the incision site. This can be minimized by following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to the letter.

2. Nerve Damage: Facelift surgery can cause temporary or permanent nerve damage, which can result in numbness, tingling, or even paralysis of the face.

3. Poor Healing: Poor healing can occur due to a variety of factors, including age, smoking, or underlying medical conditions.

4. Scarring: Scarring can occur after any type of surgery, but is more likely with facelifts due to the multiple incisions required.

5. Blood Clots: Blood clots can form in the veins of the face and neck during facelift surgery, which can be dangerous if not treated promptly.

6. Hematoma: A hematoma is a collection of blood outside the blood vessels, which can occur after facelift surgery. This can cause swelling, bruising, and pain.

7. Anesthesia Complications: As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications from the anesthesia used during the procedure.

8. Unsatisfactory Results: Facelifts are not guaranteed to produce the desired results, and there is always a risk that the patient will be unhappy with the outcome.

Why do I still have jowls after the facelift procedure?

Jowls are caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle. Even after a facelift procedure, jowls may still be present due to these factors. To reduce the appearance of jowls, patients may need to combine a facelift with other procedures such as dermal fillers, fat grafting, and laser skin resurfacing.

What steps can be taken to prevent bruising after a facelift?

How long should a person wear a head strap after a facelift, and what are the consequences of not doing so?

What is the procedure for an endoscopic face lift?

What can be done if the results of a face lift look poor behind the ears?

What steps can be taken to prevent bruising after a facelift?

  1. Follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care.
  2. Apply cold compresses to the affected areas for the first
  3. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least two weeks.
  4. Sleep with your head elevated for the first few days after the surgery.
  5. Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds for the first few weeks.
  6. Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least two weeks.
  7. Take any medications prescribed by your surgeon.
  8. Wear sunscreen with SPF
  9. Avoid saunas and steam rooms for the first few weeks.
  10. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

How long should a person wear a head strap after a facelift, and what are the consequences of not doing so?

It is generally recommended that a person wears a head strap for at least two weeks after a facelift. The head strap helps to maintain the desired shape of the face and neck, and is important for reducing swelling, bruising, and promoting healing. Not wearing a head strap after a facelift could lead to a less desirable outcome, as the skin may not be able to maintain the desired shape, and swelling and bruising may not subside as quickly.

What is the procedure for an endoscopic face lift?

An endoscopic face lift is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin on the face. It is typically performed under local anesthesia and involves the use of a small camera and specialized instruments to access the deeper layers of the skin. During the procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions in the scalp and use the camera to guide them in manipulating the underlying soft tissue and repositioning it to create a more youthful facial appearance. The surgeon may also remove excess fat and skin, as well as tighten the underlying muscles to create a more toned and youthful look. The procedure typically takes several hours to complete and the patient may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for several days after the procedure.

What can be done if the results of a face lift look poor behind the ears?

If the results of a face lift look poor behind the ears, it may be necessary to undergo a revision procedure to correct the issue. A revision procedure can involve repositioning the skin and underlying tissue, removing and re-draping excess skin, and/or adding fat or filler to the area. It is important to consult a board certified plastic surgeon to determine the best course of action.