Facelift
Everything You Need to Know
Skin becomes less firm and elastic as the years go by, and wrinkles and fine lines appear. While some people choose to let nature take its course, others may decide to undergo a facelift to look younger again.
There can be a stigma around getting cosmetic surgery, but it’s essential to remember surgery is a personal decision that you should make. Reasons someone might choose a facelift include wanting to appear younger and more refreshed or addressing signs of ageing that make them feel self-conscious.
If you’re considering a facelift, here is everything you need to know about the procedure.
What is a Facelift?
Facelifts (rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to improve the appearance of the face by reducing wrinkles and lines and tightening loose skin. The procedure can be done on both men and women combined with other procedures such as a brow lift or eyelid surgery.
How does a Facelift work?
A facelift is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes between 2 and 4 hours to complete. The surgeon will make icisions in the hairline, around the ears, and on the lower lip.The surgeon often lifts the jawline and neck at the same time. The skin is separated from the underlying fat and facial muscles and trimmed or rearranged. The skin is then re-draped over the face’s new contours, removing any excess skin. The incisions are closed with stitches, and the face is wrapped in bandages.
Unlike some other cosmetic surgeries, a facelift is designed to improve the appearance of the face by targeting particular areas. The surgeon will carefully select the incisions and skin removal based on your individual needs and goals.
What are the types of Facelifts?
There are several different facelifts, and they all achieve different results. A common type of facelift is the traditional facelift, which is best for those with moderate to severe wrinkles. A traditional facelift involves an incision in the hairline, around the ears, and in the lower lip.
Mini facelifts are a less invasive option often used to treat wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. A mid-facelift focuses on the area between the eyes and upper cheeks, while a lower facelift is more focused on the lower half of the face, including jowls.
An endoscopic facelift also uses small incisions and special instruments to minimise scarring, and a thread lift uses threads to lift and support the skin.
What is minimal access cranial suspension?
Minimal access cranial suspension (MACS) is a type of facelift surgery that uses small incisions and minimal dissection to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin. This procedure is performed on patients of all ages and skin types, and MACS is used to treat the face, neck, and jowls.
Difference between Facelift and Necklift?
A facelift is a surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the face, while a neck lift is a surgical procedure that enhances the appearance of the neck. A necklift can be performed alone or with a facelift.
How common are Facelifts?
According to the USA based American Society of Plastic Surgeons, facelifts are becoming increasingly popular, with around 234274 facelifts performed in 2020 in the US. Most patients that undergo a facelift are between the ages of 40 and 60, although the procedure is suitable for people of any age.
What Facelift surgery can’t do?
Facelift surgery cannot stop the natural ageing process, and results may vary depending on your anatomy and skin type. The procedure can also be expensive, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding.
Reasons for having a Facelift
The most common reason for having a facelift is to improve the appearance of the face. Other reasons for having the procedure include:
- To correct facial asymmetry
- To improve drooping skin around the eyes
- To reduce wrinkles and lines
- To tighten loose skin
- To improve self-esteem and confidence
At what age can I get a Facelift?
There is no one “right age” when getting cosmetic surgery, such as a facelift; however, most patients who undergo a facelift range between the ages of 40 and 60. If you consider a facelift and are not in this age range, speak with your surgeon about the potential risks and benefits.
There is no one “best” age for a facelift because the decision to have the procedure is personal and depends on your individual goals.
What type of Facelift would suit me?
There is no one “best” type of facelift, as each procedure is designed to achieve different results. For example, if you are looking for a less invasive option, a mini facelift may be the best choice. However, if you are looking for more dramatic results, a traditional facelift may be better.
How much does a Facelift cost?
Prices vary depending on the facelift type and the surgeon’s fees. In the UK, the average cost of a facelift can range from £10,000 up to £15,000 if it’s a face and neck lift. Dr Hamadeh will look at your case and desired results before giving a custom price.
What Should I Expect from a Facelift Consultation?
During your facelift consultation, Dr Hamadeh will assess your individual goals and perform a physical examination.
You may not be suited to having a Facelift if you have a history of keloid scarring or if you have active acne. Also, having certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can cause complications. If you are considering a facelift, be sure to speak with your surgeon about your medical history and any concerns you may have.
They will also discuss the different types of facelifts and which one may be the best option for you. It’s important to ask questions and get all the information you need before deciding.
How physically fit do I have to be to have a facelift?
You do not have to be very physically fit to have a facelift, but you should be in generally good health. Dr Hamadeh will give you specific instructions on preparing for your surgery during your consultation.
How to Prepare for a Facelift
There are a few things you can do to prepare for a facelift, such as:
- Schedule a consultation with Dr Hamahdeh
- Get a complete physical examination.
- Stop smoking at least six weeks before the procedure.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least four weeks before the surgery.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of Facelifts?
All surgeries come with risks, and there are potential risks and side effects associated with facelifts, including bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and scarring. However, these risks are usually minimal and can be minimised by choosing an experienced and qualified surgeon.
People choose not to have a facelift because of the surgery’s potential risks and side effects. Other reasons can include the cost of the procedure and the recovery time required.
Tips that help ensure a smooth recovery process after surgery?
Some post-operative care tips that will help ensure a smooth recovery process after surgery include:
- Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully.
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first few weeks.
- Take it easy and avoid bending or lifting heavy objects.
- Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol.
After having a facelift, following these things is essential to ensure that you heal correctly and avoid any complications. To learn more about the Recovery from Facelifts it’s worth reading our latest article, it has lots of information on how to recover quickly without increasing risks of complications.
What to expect during Facelift recovery?
After your facelift surgery, you can expect some swelling and bruising, usually resolving within a few weeks. Dr Hamadeh recommends wearing a compression garment for the first few days to help reduce the swelling. Patients require a minimum of two weeks off from work to recover.
It is important to avoid strenuous activities, sun exposure, and alcohol during this time. After about a week, you should be able to resume normal activities.
Non-Surgical Facelift?
Botox
Botox is a popular non-surgical option for improving the appearance of the face. Botox is when the Dr injects a small amount of botulinum toxin into the muscles of the face to relax them. This helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and crow’s feet. The effects of Botox typically last for about three to six months.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are another popular non-surgical option for improving the appearance of the face. They are injections of a substance that helps plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines. Dermal fillers typically last for six to twelve months.
Both Botox and dermal fillers are an excellent option for people who are not interested in or eligible for surgery, and they are minimally invasive and require no downtime. However, they may need to be repeated every few months to maintain the desired results.
In any case, it’s essential to consult with a plastic surgeon to see what option is best for you.
Facelift with Necklift?
A neck lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to improve the appearance of the neck by reducing wrinkles and tightening loose skin. The procedure can be done on both men and women and typically takes between 1 and 2 hours to complete. Many choose to get a neck lift done simultaneously because the two procedures often go hand-in-hand.
How long do the results of Facelift surgery last?
The facelift results are usually long-lasting, but they may not be permanent. We discuss the details of different Facelifts & how long they last in this article. The effects of ageing and gravity will eventually take their toll, and you may need to have another facelift down the road to maintain your results. However, a facelift can help you look 10 to 15 years younger, and the results can last for many years.
What Surgeries can be Performed in Conjunction with a Facelift?
A facelift can be performed in conjunction with several surgeries, such as a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or laser skin resurfacing. It’s essential to consult with a plastic surgeon to see what options are available and what will give you the best results. In some cases, a facelift can also be performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. This is known as blepharoplasty. This involves removing excess skin and fat from the eyelids, and it’s performed as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with a facelift. Sometimes it can be beneficial to have multiple procedures done at once to achieve the patient’s desired results. Facelifts can also be combined with a brow lift and neck liposuction to give the patient an overall more youthful appearance.
Facelifts can be an excellent way to combat the signs of ageing and help you look and feel your best. It’s essential to consult with a plastic surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for surgery and discuss your expectations.
However, with the help of an experienced and qualified surgeon, you can achieve natural-looking results that can last for many years, and you can feel confident and happy with your appearance.
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