You’re bound to have lots of questions if you’re considering a facelift procedure, as well you should. It’s a serious surgery and a big investment. Among the most popular questions cosmetic surgeons hear from their facelift patients:
- Am I a good candidate?
The best candidate for a facelift is unhappy with an aged appearance and sagging skin around the face and neck. An ideal candidate is in good health, a non-smoker and someone who is able to avoid blood thinning medications for two weeks prior to surgery. - With how many surgeons should I consult?
A facelift candidate should consult with as many doctors as they feel necessary. A patient’s comfort prior to a facelift procedure is critical and, whether it’s one consultation with a single surgeon or several consultations with multiple surgeons, the patient must gain a rapport with their chosen doctor. - What is the cost?
The cost for a facelift varies depending on the patient and the work done. In any case, the patient should know the total cost, via an itemized list, prior to the procedure. - What are the risks?
The chances of anything going wrong during a facelift procedure is rare but one possible, though uncommon, risk is bleeding that occurs under the skin. Nerve damage also has been reported after facelifts. Your surgeon will discuss all risks and potential complications with you prior to your procedure. - Will I be shown before-and-after photos?
An experienced, qualified surgeon will show you many before-and-after photos of patients on whom he or she has done work. As a unique facelift candidate, though, your surgeon will use the latest computer software to generate realistic projections, or “morphed” images, of how you will look following your facelift. - Will I need to see my own personal care doctor before my facelift?
All facelift patients must undergo basic lab tests. Typically, patients who are age 45 or older will need written clearance from their personal doctors. - What kind of anesthesia will be used and who will administer it? Will I wake up mid-surgery? How long will my procedure take and where will it take place?
Most facelift procedures require deep sedation, which will be administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. Patients will be totally asleep and in no pain during the entire procedure. Most facelift procedures last about four hours and will be done in a hospital or fully-accredited surgery center. - What do I need to do prior to my surgery?
You can eat normally the day before your surgery but avoid heavy meals or foods that may case acid reflux. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. You also should prepare your affairs so that you can relax after your surgery. You should plan to take one to two weeks off work to allow for proper healing, and exercise should be avoided for about three weeks following your surgery. - Can I have other surgeries alongside my facelift, like an eyelid lift?
Yes, you can have multiple surgeries done during one encompassing surgery. Some patients who have a facelift also choose to have their eyes, brows and/or midface improved at the same time. This prevents extra recovery time and it allows the patient to accomplish numerous goals through one surgery. - How much pain will I have after surgery and will there be scars?
Will I need another facelift? Facelift recovery is not excessively painful. You will feel some tightness in your skin, which comes from swelling. Discomfort will be controlled with prescribed medication. Facelift scars are well hidden, and typically only noticeable by the patient. Though your face will look younger and refreshed after surgery, it will continue to age. Some patients opt for a revision surgery, which usually is requested 10 or more years after the initial facelift.