Cosmetic Surgey Basics - Comparisons of Cosmetic Surgery Services to ease your decision

Cosmetic Surgery Basics

Face Lift Basics

A Face Lift involves the skillful removal of excess facial skin from the neck, chin and cheek areas under General Anaesthetic. The scars will be hidden behind your ears or in your hairline and will usually fade over time. After the operation you will find that your hairline has been ‘lifted’ and in the case of a man, the beard growth will be closer to, and extend back below the ear. The procedure will normally take between two and three hours and will require one or two nights in hospital.

Following the operation you may experience bruising and swelling around the area. This may be accompanied by a ‘tight’ feeling and numbness. You will be advised to keep all head movements to a minimum during these early days, to avoid straining the stitches. At between 7 and 14 days after the operation the stitches and clips, if used, will be removed and at this time you will be able to resume your normal day to day activities with few exceptions.

Is Face Lift the right choice for me?

The final decision will be made between you and your Surgeon. However, the following reasons are typical of most people choosing to undertake this surgery:

Looseness to the skin and relaxation of muscles resulting in wrinkles and folds on the face
Visible jowls – no longer a smooth firm jaw line
Deep lines in the corner of the mouth, often giving a 'sad' look
Loose skin and wrinkling to the neck area
Lack of self confidence – some people age prematurely and feel that the face does not match the body
Substantial weight loss in later life can give the effect of ageing – the skin cannot retract as in younger people and without the fat, will become saggy and wrinkly
To look more youthful and attractive

Benefits of Face Lift

Increased self-confidence and self esteem
Easier application of make-up
Feel rejuvenated and fresher
Able to wear clothes with lower necklines – no longer the need to hide behind a scarf / high-necked top
Look younger

Risks of Face Lift

Bleeding. This is rare and can sometimes result in a collection of blood (haematoma) that may require draining
Infection. Also very rare and can be treated successfully with antibiotics
Increased scarring. Most common in people who smoke
Nerve damage. The facial nerve could be affected during surgery which may result in long-term numbness
General Anaesthetic risks - including Deep Vein Thrombosis