Facelift Surgery Melbourne
Face Lifts and Neck Lifts
Age inevitably causes the face and neck to change as the skin loses its elasticity and volume, and the redistribution of fat occurs. Skin can lose its youthful appearance, and the chin and jaw region can loosen and drop.
Face and neck lifts can be used to reduce these effects of ageing and rejuvenate the areas. This is done by re-supporting the soft tissues, restoring definition and volume, and improving sagging skin and fat deposits. An incision is made in the most inconspicuous location possible, and a small amount of skin is removed.
These procedures can be customised to cater for specific goals and requirements and are often done in combination. The techniques used allow for a natural appearance without obvious signs of treatment.
Common reasons why people consider having facelift surgery
With the normal ageing process the soft tissues and skin of the face and upper neck sag and lose volume. Some people feel that this, combined with excess skin, makes them look tired or old. This surgery aims to improve facial and neck contouring, while restoring definition to the cheeks, jawline and neck by reducing the amount of sagging skin and soft tissues present.
Facelift surgery does not remove facial wrinkles – these may be more effectively dealt with by fillers (if deep) or anti-wrinkle injections e.g. crow’s feet. Most people considering this surgery have a desire to take away the signs of ageing but not look “operated on” or “like a different person”.
What is involved with facelift surgery?
- General anaesthetic.
- Surgery Duration: usually about 4-5 hours of operating time. This varies depending on the patient.
- Bulky dressings are applied.
- Usually a stay of one night in hospital.
A facelift involves an incision starting in the temple hairline, passing down just in front of the ear, curling around the lower part of the ear and ending in the hairline behind the ear.
As compared to previous surgical methods, only a small amount of skin is removed to minimise the “operated on” look.
Post Operative Care and Review
- Melbourne Plastic Surgeon Dean White and his team will care for you in hospital.
- A review appointment to take off the dressings, check your wounds and remove any sutures is generally undertaken one week after surgery.
- Subsequent review appointments are generally made for 6 weeks after surgery and then 3, 6 and 12 months later to assess the results of your surgery.
Risks To Consider
Anaesthetic
In otherwise well people, general anaesthesia is very safe with modern techniques. A/Prof White’s rooms will give you the details of your anaesthetist prior to surgery to discuss any specific concerns.
Bleeding/Haematoma
This may need a return to the operating theatre to evacuate a blood clot. This can impact on wound healing or skin survival.
Infection in the wound
If this does occur it can usually be cleared up with antibiotic tablets.
DVT/PE (Deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolus)
Blood clots that are potentially very serious and even life threatening, which can form in the legs and travel to the lungs. Multiple strategies are employed to minimise the risk of these occurring.
Wound healing issues
Stretch marks may not all be removed or new ones may be created. Gathers in the wound are often present at either end. These settle over several weeks to months in the majority of cases but sometimes may need a small revision. Initially there is almost always some contour issues or puckers. These settle down in most cases over several weeks.
Scars
Typically are at their thickest and reddest at 6-10 weeks after surgery. Scars continue to mature and improve for up to 18 months after surgery. Scar management advice will be discussed in your follow up visit with A/Prof White to assist in achieving the goal of a thin, barely noticeable scar.
Asymmetry
The scars may be slightly different on your right compared to left side.
Wound separation/delayed healing
This is much more common in smokers or if there is an infection.
Skin necrosis/loss
Very rare complication and almost only seen in smokers. If it does occur it needs significant aftercare, possibly more surgery and even skin grafting in the most extreme cases.
Seroma
Clear/straw like fluid that can collect following surgery. Usually it settles down with no intervention but if persistent or large may require drainage in the rooms (sometimes on several occasions) or even a drain tube to be inserted.
Numbness
Generally settles down over weeks to months.
Nerve injury
The main risks are to the facial nerve which controls facial movement. There may be some weakness post operatively but is not usually permanent although in rare cases this has been known to occur
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age to get a facelift?
Many people choose to have a face lift procedure in their mid/late forties and beyond.
Should I lose weight before a facelift?
It is recommended you reach and maintain a healthy weight prior to surgery to avoid changes afterwards due to increased or decreased fat deposits and accompanying skin changes.
What is the difference between a facelift and neck lift?
Face lifts target skin laxity and the loosening of the lower region of the face. Neck lifts focus on creating a smoother neck and chin area.
How long will my face be swollen after a face lift?
Most of the swelling after a face lift generally reduces after a few weeks. Some swelling may remain for a few more months after the majority has subsided.
How long do the results of a face lift last?
The benefits acquired with a face lift are typically long lasting. This differs from person to person due to the ageing process, lifestyle, and weight changes.
Can a facelift be combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)?
Yes, combining a facelift with blepharoplasty can provide a more complete facial rejuvenation by addressing aging signs in both the lower face and the eye area.
This combined approach can enhance overall results and reduce overall recovery time compared to having the procedures separately.
Surgical Goals
- YOUR SAFETY.
- Address symptoms.
- Improve appearance.
No Surgery Is Risk Free
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