If you believe that signs of aging are preventing you from looking your best, you may be thinking about having a facelift. A traditional facelift can lift and tighten sagging tissues in your mid and lower face to give you a more youthful look. This surgery can smooth out your wrinkles, remove excess skin, and refine the contours of your chin and jaw. Following your facelift, you may find that your face feels refreshed and that you have renewed confidence in your appearance.
The Standard Facelift Procedure
A standard facelift diminishes moderate to advanced signs of aging around the cheeks, jaw, and neck. After you receive general anesthesia or IV sedation, your surgeon will cut your skin in front of your ear, at the hairline behind your ear, and above the hairline at your temples. They may also make a small cut underneath your chin. After making the necessary incisions, your surgeon will tighten the deep tissues and skin on your face and trim away any excess to mitigate sagging. They may also remove unwanted fat from your neck, chin, and jawline to improve your facial contours. Once your tissues have been repositioned, your surgeon will secure them with stitches. The effects of a standard facelift are noticeable yet natural-looking and can last for several years.
What to Expect During Recovery
Many doctors characterize facelift recovery as a four-stage process, which is detailed below.
Stage 1: Week 1
After your facelift, your head will be wrapped in a large bandage that will help reduce bruising and swelling while encouraging fluid drainage. You will probably experience pain and disorientation, and you will need a caretaker for the first day after surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate your progress the day after your surgery and change your dressings. After about two days, you should feel good enough to move around independently, although you should spend most of your first week of recovery resting in bed with your head elevated. After four days, you should feel less pain, and your swelling should start to subside. Engaging in some light activity will boost your circulation and encourage the healing process. You’ll need to monitor your face for infection and be sure to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions carefully during this time.
Stage 2: Week 2
After seven days, the swelling and bruising in your face will be less apparent. You may experience numbness and tingling in your skin as your nerves regenerate. Two weeks after your surgery, most of your swelling and bruising should be gone, and you may be ready to get back to work and resume non-strenuous daily activity.
Stage 3: Weeks 3 and 4
Three to four weeks after your facelift, your surgeon will take out your stitches or sutures, and your incision sites will become smoother. You may still experience some swelling, but you should also feel more energized and start to see your newly improved facial contours. As you continue to heal, it’s important to avoid any activity or strain that could injure your face. You’ll also need to stay out of the sun and wear sun protection whenever you’re outdoors.
Stage 4: Week 4 and Beyond
After thirty days, your face should appear to be refreshed and healed, and you should be able to resume normal activities. It can take up to twelve months for your side effects to fully subside and for you to realize the final results of your facelift. You’ll probably notice subtle changes in your appearance as your healing progresses. Keep in mind that being mindful and cautious during your recovery will give you the best chances for a successful outcome.
The Ideal Candidate for a Surgical Facelift
An ideal candidate for a surgical facelift will:
- have sagging skin that may be caused by the natural aging process
- be in good health
- be a non-smoker
- be open about their use of substances, supplements, and medications
- have no serious medical conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, or high blood pressure
- want long-lasting results
- will be open about their medical history
- have a positive attitude and realistic expectations for the surgery
When you meet with your doctor, you should discuss all aspects of your medical history and the upcoming surgery openly to mitigate any risks and encourage a positive outcome.
FAQ
Will I Be Able to Move My Facial Muscles After a Facelift?
It takes time for swelling to subside and nerves to heal after a facelift, which can affect movement in your face. This loss of movement is usually temporary. If it lasts more than a few weeks, most doctors advise waiting it out unless you are experiencing complications.
How Long Will It Take for My Scars to Fade After a Facelift?
In the weeks and months after surgery, your scar may look red and thick. After this stage of healing, the scar will start to break down, flatten, and lose color. It may take a year for your scar to appear faded and relatively colorless.
Why a Personal Consultation Is Important
Choosing to have a standard facelift can be a great way to refresh your appearance and achieve a more youthful look. Because a facelift is an intensive surgical procedure with visible and long-lasting effects, it’s extremely important to enlist the services of a highly skilled and aesthetically attuned plastic surgeon. The best doctors will be board-certified specialists who are committed to providing you with the best possible care so that you can achieve the results you desire.
Schedule a Consultation with Us
If you’re curious about how a facelift can rejuvenate your appearance, you’ll want to speak to an experienced cosmetic surgeon who specializes in facial surgery. Dr. Atencio, based in Austin, TX, is dedicated to helping you look radiant and full of life as you engage with the world. To learn more about our services, schedule a consultation with Dr. Atencio today.