Facelift & Neck Lift

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1. Who is a good candidate for a facelift?

This procedure is suitable for men and women who notice sagging skin around the forehead, jowls, and other areas of the face, provided their skin still has some elasticity. It is also advisable for individuals with a strong, well-defined bone structure. The healthcare practitioner will ensure that candidates are physically healthy and have realistic expectations about the procedure.

2. What is the right age to have facelift done?

The appropriate age for undergoing a facelift varies from person to person and depends on individual lifestyle and genetics.

3. What type of anaesthetic is used for a facelift?

A facelift can be performed under general anaesthesia or light sedation. In some cases, a local anaesthetic may also be administered to numb the surgical area.

4. Are there certain precautions that I should follow before surgery?

Patients are advised to avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks at least four days before and after surgery, as these substances can have blood-thinning effects that may complicate recovery.

5. How is a facelift performed?

After administering anaesthesia, the practitioner creates incisions in inconspicuous areas, possibly within or slightly above the hairline. The procedure involves separating the fat and muscle beneath the skin, trimming and pulling back the skin, and suturing or stapling it into place. Potential risks associated with facelift surgery include hematoma, nerve damage, infection, and scarring.

6. Does a facelift cause a hairline shift?

This can depend on the technique used by the healthcare practitioner. If this is a concern, it is important to discuss it beforehand to explore options that may help maintain the hairline.

7. How long does a facelift procedure take?

A facelift generally takes around 2 to 6 hours to perform. Some patients may require only partial improvement, while others might need a more extensive procedure.

8. Is a facelift procedure painful?

Most patients report only mild pain or discomfort after the procedure, which can usually be managed with oral analgesics. Discomfort typically decreases over the following weeks, but any significant pain should be reported to the healthcare practitioner for assessment.

9. I only want minor tweaks, is it possible to have a “small facelift?”

The primary goal of a facelift is to achieve facial enhancement. If the level of sagging is not severe, the practitioner may recommend a partial or mini facelift instead, focusing mainly on excision rather than deeper tissue lifting.

10. What can I expect the recovery to be like?

Patients can usually go home on the day of surgery. A support bandage will be applied to the face and neck to reduce swelling. Mild discomfort can typically be managed with pain relief medication. An ice pack can also be used in the first few days to minimise swelling.

The estimated healing time for this surgery is two to three weeks, although most patients can return to normal activities after about a week.

11. Will the scars after a facelift become visible?

Scars may become visible but will be designed to be as discreet as possible and will typically fade to fine lines over time.

12. When can I return to work or resume usual activities?

Most patients can return to work and engage in non-strenuous activities after one week, but this can vary based on individual healing. It is important to allow sufficient recovery time to prevent complications.

13. When will I be able to see results?

Patients will start to notice changes in their facial appearance as swelling subsides, with final results becoming apparent several weeks after the procedure.

14. How much does a facelift cost?

An accurate cost estimate will be provided during a personal consultation, where the healthcare practitioner will evaluate the patient’s facial skin and determine whether a partial facelift or full surgery is needed.