Facelift Procedure: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough of Your Surgery

If you want to remove the signs of aging, the facelift procedure can be a very good option. What it does is it helps restore the natural contour of your face, while also ensuring that it rejuvenates your appearance. Knowing the facelift procedure steps is extremely important, and that’s why we are here to help. Our article will help you narrow down what happens during a face lift, and you will know if this procedure is for you or not.

Preparation for Facelift Surgery

One of the first things you want to do is to choose a qualified plastic surgeon. You want to understand what type of facelift suits your needs the most. And, of course, you also want to get lab testing and a medical evaluation to see what works for you. Stop smoking too, because this can lead to downsides if you are getting a facelift. On top of that, the doctor might tell you to apply certain products to your skin, preoperatively, just to make sure that everything is ok. It’s also highly recommended to avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs or aspirin as well, as those can increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.

The Facelift Surgery Procedure

The face lift surgery procedure can provide a great final result, and it will provide natural contours, along with the removal of sagging skin in unwanted places. What’s great about a facelift is that it helps boost your look while only impacting a little bit of pain.

• The first part of the process is anesthesia, and it can be one of two options. You either go for general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The doctor can help you pick the right option, based on your own needs.
  
• After that, the first incision is made. The most common facelift incision will start in the hairline at the temples. Then it will continue around the ear, with the end being at the lower scalp. The idea is to redistribute or sculpt fat from the face. During this process, you will have the deeper face muscles and layers getting lifted as well. Sometimes a secondary incision under the chin is necessary, so you can remove the signs of an aging neck. Skin adhesives and sutures can be used to close the incision.
  
• Closing the incision is the next step. Here you will have sutures that dissolve, most of the time. Or there might be sutures that have to be removed after a few days. There are surgeons that rely on skin glue as a way to seal the incision. After the incision lines heal, they will be concealed in your hairline. That makes a regular or mini facelift one of the best ways to ensure you maintain a great, cohesive look.
  
• Results will be easier to see after the bruising and swelling wears off, and that can take a few days. The benefit is that you get to have a stunning appearance at the end. But it will be a rather invasive and challenging procedure. So you can look into alternatives like using a non-surgical face lifting machine as well.

Facelift Surgery Aftercare and Recovery

It’s very important to stay within the wrapped dressings for 24 hours, after which you will have them removed. You will receive prescribed medication that will help with closing the incision. Additionally, you want to rest properly in order to prevent any swelling and bruising. Once you know how are facelifts performed, you will see that they also need proper after-care.

Placing ice packs on the surgical site can help with bruising and swelling, so keep that in mind. It’s also very important to restrict physical activity for a few days, sometimes up to 7-10 days after the surgery. You should consider avoiding situations when you bump your face or hit your neck. Avoid lifting or bending over as well. And, of course, you need to do some follow-up visits as well in order to monitor the facelift results and see if there are side effects.

Understanding the Risks of Facelift Surgery

Any invasive procedure like cosmetic surgery can come with all kinds of risks. It’s important to talk with the surgeon about the facelift surgery risks, and to know exactly what you can expect. Asking questions is important, and it will give you a good idea about any potential issues. 

When it comes to the risks, these include prolonged swelling, skin loss, poor wound healing, sometimes even discoloration and skin irregularities. Irritation can also be a side effect as well, depending on how sensitive your skin is.

Non-Surgical Facelift Options

A surgery is not your only option, as you can easily use a non-surgical face lifting tool or procedure. There are options like injectable fillers, thread lifts, chemical peels, focused ultrasound or collagen induction therapy that can be very helpful. Have a mini facelift or just use non-invasive procedures that can provide a less dramatic, natural result. Not everyone is okay with surgery, especially with the swelling and bruising, and long downtime.

Conclusion

Working with a skilled plastic surgeon can help take your facelift surgery to the next level. Follow the best practices in this guide, as it will help you make the best out of your facelift, along with adequate preparation and recovery.

We wish you all the best in your journey to discover a rejuvenated you!

FAQ Section

How long does the final result of a facelift last?

Generally, the results of a facelift will last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. A mini facelift will usually last 10 years.

Can I combine facelift surgery with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes, it is possible, but make sure that you talk with a professional first. A very common combination is with rhinoplasty, since many clients want some work done to improve their nose’s look.

What are the key differences between a traditional facelift and a mini facelift?

A mini facelift will target the less severe aging signs. It’s also less invasive and it has smaller incisions when compared to a traditional facelift.

How long does a full facelift surgery take?

The facelift surgery can vary in length, it depends on the surgeon and their team, but also the extent of the surgery itself. It’s common for this surgery to last around 2-6 hours.