A facelift is the most invasive of facial cosmetic surgery procedures. However, it also offers the best results, which is why it may be necessary in order to reach a client’s beauty goals. In our article today, we will discuss the recovery process so you understand what to expect if you undergo this type of treatment.
What to Expect at Your Facelift Consultation
Before you have a procedure like a facelift (rhytidectomy), you will want to have a consultation with a facial cosmetic surgeon. This will allow you to weigh all of the options available to you. In fact, you may find that there are facelift alternatives that could help you to reach your goals and allow you to put off a full facelift until a future time.
However, if you and your cosmetic surgeon agree that this is the best option for you, here is what you should know about the procedure.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Surgery
A facelift is performed as an outpatient procedure. There is no need for you to stay overnight when you have a facelift performed. During the procedure, you will experience some degree of anesthesia, determined upon in advance by you and your cosmetic surgeon. Excess skin will be removed, and muscles or connective tissue that is sagging will be tightened. You may also have some fat deposits removed from your neck or chin areas. Small sutures are used to close the incisions that are made. Depending on the extent of the surgery, the procedure can take up to five hours.
What to Expect During Your Recovery
The good news is that while facelifts are extensive and invasive, there is usually very little pain during the recovery. You may feel a sensation of tightness in the skin or numbness that will gradually resolve over a period of a few weeks. The location of the incisions will likely be pink for some time before fading to natural color. The incisions are made where there are existing creases to hide any scars. You may have a few weeks of bruising and swelling as well. Thus, you will likely want to postpone your normal daily activities for two to three weeks.
For the first few days, you will be asked to wear a strap to support your head. You will also have several post-op visits over the course of two to three weeks.
Reducing the Signs of Aging on Long Island
While we can’t provide an exact timeframe that a facelift will last, we can say that facelifts performed at NY Face Place in Mineola are up to the highest standard and will shave years off of your appearance. Dr. Alex will be happy to meet with you to discuss your options to meet your beauty goals. Call 516.294.9454 to get started.
