Things to Consider Before Having a Facelift

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a facial rejuvenation procedure

aimed at improving the lower face and neck. There are many

different approaches to facelifts with varying amounts of skin

undermining and variability in results. In this article, we

will address some of the questions to ask with any facelift and

some of the risks associated with all facelifts. As always, this

is merely an introduction and all risks and benefits should be

clearly explained by your physician before any procedure is

undertaken.

The amount of aging in the face and neck and patient expectation

of results will dictate the type of facelift performed. Generally,

incisions for facelift procedures are performed in a way which,

when healed, are barely perceptible. There are several options

for incisions and it is important to ask your physician where the

incisions will be – especially if you have previous surgery in

the facial area. Any incision can be expected to be red for a

time period – sometimes even several months – though they can

generally be covered by a hairstyle or makeup after a time period.

Be sure to mention to your physician if you have a history of

healing abnormalities, especially keloid formation, as this can

occur again after facelift surgery.

Bruising and swelling are variable after facelift surgery.

Generally, the more extensive the facelift, the more bruising

and swelling that occurs. The good news is that all bruising and

swelling goes away. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking

aspirin, other prescription blood thinners, and any herbal

supplements as all of these can increase bruising.

Numbness can be expected for a time after facelift surgery. The

numbness is in the area operated on and sometimes the ear as well.

This is generally temporary though it can be permanent. Most, if

not all of the nerves will regrow though it can take several months

for sensation to return to normal. This is feeling only and does

not affect the smile or other facial movement.

Depending on the extent of the facelift that is done, there is a

variable risk of injuring the nerve which provides movement to

most of the muscles to the face. Again, this can be temporary or

possibly permanent. Even with the most extensive facelifts though,

the risk is only a maximum of about 2% of the time. It is very

important to speak with your surgeon about your risk of nerve

injury before undergoing the procedure.

There is a possibility of changing the look of the ear as well.

Depending on the facelift technique used, the ear may be pulled

forward or down, though this is rather unlikely. At times, even

with the best of procedures and technical operations, there is a

chance of scarring which creates an earlobe which is attached to

the side of the face, referred to as a pixie ear. This can be

easily repaired with an additional procedure after the original

facelift has healed.

As mentioned, it is very important to discuss the risks and

benefits of any procedure with your surgeon before you proceed

with that procedure. Be sure to tell your surgeon about any

prescription or over the counter medications you are taking –

including herbal supplements – as these can affect healing.