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If you are unhappy with the way your face and neck look due to wrinkles or aging skin, a facelift might be the answer to your problems. A facelift reverses the negative effects of aging by lifting and firming sagging facial tissues to restore a more youthful facial appearance.
But, what happens after your facelift? And what you should know before going in for your facial rejuvenation.
How Difficult Will My Facelift Recovery Be?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort, mild pain, swelling, and bruising post-operatively. Some numbness in the cheeks where the skin has been elevated is expected as well.
It is important to keep your head elevated and limit your activity to walking and very light tasks for the first few days to support the initial recovery process.
As you approach your ten-day mark, the symptoms of surgery, such as swelling, bruising, and redness, will likely have subsided, and you may feel ready to return to work and do other “light” activities.
Any bruising can usually be hidden with makeup at this stage, but special care should be taken to avoid sun exposure to optimize your facelift results.
How Long Will My Facelift Last?
Unlike temporary non-invasive treatments, such as injectables and fillers, the positive effects of a facelift can be considerably long lasting.
As the swelling and bruising subside, you will begin to look younger and fresher. These improvements will become more defined over the coming months.
Your final result should reveal a smoother, more rejuvenated facial appearance that looks several years younger. It is important to be patient with your results as it may take several months for the final outcome.
Am I Too Young for a Facelift?
When it comes to the effects and impacts of aging, no two people are the same. Every person’s anatomy and aging are unique due to genetics, lifestyle choices, sun exposure, dry climate, cigarette and alcohol intake, and environment.
For some people, signs of advanced aging may start to kick in as they approach their mid-30s or 40s. Others notice visible signs of wrinkles and sagging skin much later.
Whatever the age, it’s important to plan for the future at a younger age by scheduling a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon to learn more about what works for your body.
Learn more about when to consider a facelift by reading our blog on When You Should Have a Facelift.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Facelift Procedure?
Good candidates have a significant amount of skin laxity characterized by wrinkles and sagging skin on the face, under the chin, and along the jawline.
Although the procedure is mostly sought by people in their 40s, 50s, or 60s, it can still be safely performed on the younger demographics looking for touch-ups or a way to maintain their youthful appearance.
Candidates should also be in good health and have realistic expectations of the procedure’s outcome.
Interested in Learning More About Facelift Surgery?
Dr. Hiatt is board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), which ensures that he has the training and experience to provide a safe and effective procedure. He is also a member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society (ASAPS). To schedule your consultation with Dr. Hiatt, please call (480) 844-1410 or fill out our online consultation form.
We look forward to helping you achieve the appearance you desire!
The post What Can I Expect After My Facelift? appeared first on Karl B. Hiatt, MD.
