A facelift is also referred to as rhytidectomy or facial cosmetic surgery. This type of cosmetic surgery helps repair drooping, wrinkling and sagging facial skin and neck.
Normally, elderly people seek facelifts to remove and defy their age. However, a facelift may be redone after a decade or so once the lines reappear over time.
The fatty deposits or jowl on the neck and deep age lines along the face signify aging. Undergoing facelift is a solution that fixes these problems.
Facelift is a major surgical procedure that require anesthesia- either local or general. The plastic surgeon makes incisions above the patient's hairline, behind the earlobes up to the lower part of the scalp.
Some of the fatty tissues and loose facial skin will be removed. The incisions are then sutured; the patient's face will be loosely bandaged and will be sent to the recovery room.
Risks involved during Facelifts
Reactions to anesthesia
Breathing problems due to anesthesia
Bleeding
Infection
Hematoma
Temporary facial nerve damage
Recovery after a Facelift
Swelling, bruising, tenderness, post-surgery numbness for 10 to 14 days, and skin discoloration are normal during recovery.
Surgical scars are usually hidden on the natural facial lines or in the hairline, but these will fade over time. Sun exposure should be avoided at all times to ensure proper healing.
Other recovery tips to help you heal fast
Do light exercises to help your blood circulate throughout your body after surgery. This promotes faster healing and reduces the swelling.
Apply cold compress to your face to minimize swelling and to relieve pain. Apply for 20 minutes and re-apply after a 2-minute interval.
Use a specially designed medical compression garment for your facelift. This is ideal for the healing skin. Avoid using generic brands that may be too harsh or can cause friction with the healing facial skin.
Avoid hot showers or hot tubs. High temperatures can aggravate swelling.
Use a thick or high pillow when lying down to let body fluids flow downward, away from your face. This also minimizes the swelling.
Avoid too much salt and alcohol in your diet. Eat healthy and always hydrate your body by drinking lots of water and other fluids.