Face Lifting..

A facelift removes the tired heavy appearance by lifting and smoothing out the sagging jowls and neck, re-defining the contour of the neck and jaw line.

There are several factors which influence aging of the face. A major factor is gravity which is a constant factor, its effect being to pull the facial tissues downwards causing sagging of the facial structures which accentuates the crease line running from the nostrils to the sides of the mouth. The effect is also seen on the jaw line and underneath the chin. As we age, we tend to loose some of the facial fat, and this in combination with decreased skin elasticity leads to sagging of the face. This can be made worse by excess exposure to ultraviolet light. It is well known that people who live in tropical climates have a prematurely aged skin. The facelift procedure is most sought after within the over forties age group.

The facelift has always been regarded as a major surgical procedure but recent advances in technique both surgical and anaesthetic have made it a much safer and comfortable experience. It is important to remember however, that although a facelift can wind the clock back by reversing the effects of gravity, it will not erase permanent creases, particularly around the lips. Further procedures like laser resurfacing or chemical peels can improve those lines and can be carried out in conjunction with a facelift.

At your consultation you should provide your surgeon with a general medical history, together with details of any previous facial surgery. Slight differences in facial symmetry are normal and will have been pointed out as they often go unnoticed by the patient. By gently lifting the facial skin, the surgeon is able to assess what could be expected post operatively.

Over the years the classical (skin only) operation has undergone a number of modifications aimed at improving the overall results. Some of these modifications include the deep (S.M.A.S.) lift.  Each of these modifications can be tailor-made to suit individual needs. It is possible to undergo correction of eye bags (see notes regarding blepharoplasty) as well as other procedures at the same time as the facelift. Free fat transfer from other parts of the body is sometimes used to restore the lost volumes of the central part of the face.

Face Lifting - The Operation

The facelift is carried out under general anaesthetic and an overnight stay in hospital is usually required. More limited procedures can sometimes be carried out under a local anaesthetic and sedation. Starting high in the temple area (hidden by the hair at this point) the incision courses down following the curves in front of the ear round the earlobe and up behind the ear before curving gently back into the hair again. Using these incisions on both sides, the skin and deep tissues are remodelled and re-draped. The incisions are enclosed with stitches in front of the ear and surgical clips in the hair. Small drainage tubes are inserted underneath the skin during the operation and they are removed the day after the surgery. It is also usual for the surgeon to apply a head bandage in order to gently pressurise the incisions during the first post-operative night.

Face Lifting - After the Operation

Bandages are removed the morning after the surgery. The hair will be washed and then the patient can return home. Over the subsequent few days, you can gently wash your hair with a mild shampoo, obviously exercising care in the suture area.

It is important not to stoop or carry out vigorous activities for the first five days after the surgery otherwise post-operative bleeding can result.

Any discomfort can be controlled by taking a mild analgesic such as Paracetamol (Aspirin must not be taken).

Sutures are usually removed 7 days post-operatively. Scars are usually very faint after a facelift. However, a period of thickening and reddening of the scars can be expected to last for a few months before returning to more natural skin colour and texture. The scars in the hairline may stretch a little, as this is where the tension is carried. Bruising, swelling and numbness are temporary following a facelift and are mostly resolved after two weeks. Complications after facelift are rare as great care is taken at the time of the operation to protect the Facial nerves and meticulous attention to detail is observed. If a haematoma (a collection of blood under the skin) should occur, a revisit to the operating theatre may be necessary. However, if dealt with promptly this does not affect the long-term results.

Occasionally, delayed wound healing may occur, mainly in diabetic patients or patients who smoke. Please discuss your smoking habit with your surgeon.

Damage to the nerves, which control the facial muscles, is an extremely rare event, which may be associated with a facelift. Even if this should occur, in the majority of cases, there is a full recovery.

Face Lifting - Summary

A facelift redefines the jaw line by lifting and smoothing out the sagging jowl and neck. This is an extremely popular procedure, which refreshes the face, improves the contour of the neck and removes the heavy tired look.

Some swelling and slight bruising should be expected for approximately seven days. Infection with this procedure is rare, but if it did occur a course of antibiotics is precribed.