Facelift
As the years go by, our bodies are subject to changes which are most visible on our faces. The skin ages, creating wrinkles; the subcutaneous fat layer decrease causes changes in the overall facial appearance.
These symptoms are effectively removed by surgery, improving the appearance in a very effective and efficient way. Please note that tiny wrinkles cannot be removed totally, there are other methods, such as laser or filling materials that are designed for such treatment.
The operating physician shall determine the method and extend of your surgery, depending on your individual facial appearance.
During this surgery, not only is excess skin on the neck and face removed, the subcutaneous fibrous structures are also strengthened. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or analgosedation is given to patients. A suitable method shall be selected by the surgeon in cooperation with the anaesthesiologist. The procedure is suitable for both women and men, but it must be emphasized that hiding scars is more difficult in men (less hair). The age at which people get a facelift ranges from 40 to 60.
Pre-surgery instructions:
For general instructions, see the pre-surgery instructions
Patients are recommended to arrange a companion for transport back home.
During the procedure
A facelift incision is made in the area of the temple hair, just above and in front of the ear, and continues around the lobe, circling the ear, ending in the hairline behind the ear. Facelifting is focused especially on the lower half of the face and the neck to give them a youthful appearance. The procedure can be combined with jowl liposuction. Forehead wrinkles can be removed only in separate surgery, not by a facelift.
The incision is covered by an overall head bandage for 2 - 3 days. Symptoms, such as swelling of the face, bruising around the eyes and on the neck and a slight fever currently occur following surgery. These symptoms can last for 3 - 4 days and can be mitigated by cold packs and Paralen to reduce the fever.
Checks are performed every 3 - 5 days until the sutures have been removed, usually on day 10 to 14. The hair can be washed on the fifth day after surgery, preferably with baby shampoo. Pressure massages of the scars shall be performed two weeks later as advised by the physician.
Complications
A feeling of tension and numbness in the face is normal and subsides with time.
Post-op swelling can last for more than one week in some patients, but afterwards it will usually fade.
The recovery time is highly individual, influenced by many factors, but it can be reduced considerably if a healthy regime is kept and smoking is avoided.
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