FACELIFT

To plan for a facelift you will need to book a consultation with me to discuss your goals.

During your first consultation, we will discuss your goals and align them to a realistic outcome. This will give you a good understanding of what can be achieved and what your realistic expectations should be.

I will take photos of your face and examine the bone structure, skin texture, and shape of the face. We will discuss the various facial cosmetic surgery options so that you can make an informed decision to go ahead.

To prepare yourself for a facelift you may be asked to stop smoking for 2 – 4 weeks prior to the procedure. Nicotine retards the healing process, and quitting for as long as possible before surgery helps improve blood flow.

You might also have to have a blood test before surgery is performed.

You should stop taking certain medication, like aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs. You may need to stop taking some vitamins and supplements so be sure to disclose what you are taking. Let your surgeon know whatever medication you use since you may need to adjust these. Avoid recreational drugs.

Be sure to arrange for transport to and from the clinic, since you will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.

After a facelift, you can expect some bruising and swelling, and discomfort. Drainage tubes are often used for the first 24 hours, to remove fluid and some blood, as well as cold compresses.

Keep the dressing dry for at least 48 hours. The stitches along the incision lines will dissolve on their own. Avoid hot baths, hot tubs for about 6 weeks. Swimming is generally fine after 2 – 3 weeks. Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights.

Expect to return to work within 1 – 2 weeks and gradually return to normal activities within 4 – 6 weeks. Take it slowly to build back up to your original strength and fitness regime.

Eat soft foods for the first few days after surgery. I will give you a full list of what you can and can’t do as well as when and how to ease into your normal activities.

The risks of a facelift, as with any surgery, can include a (low) risk of post-operative infection, bleeding, and swelling.

More rare complications can include blood collecting under the skin (haematoma), facial nerve injury and numbness (usually temporary), hair loss near the incision, raised scarring, skin discolouration and skin loss due to interrupted blood supply.