Face lifting

Face Lifting

Goal: To correct the aging deformity of the face and neck. This is achieved by pulling up the fallen and loose tissues and adding the volume to rejuvenate the face.

Facelift can be and should be often combined with eyelid surgery, facial liposculpture and resurfacing (light dermabrasion, superficial laser, light peel). Surgical technique: The initial incision is made in the temporal hairline and continued down in front of, around and posterior to the ear. The skin is undermined, excess removed and the underlying tissues lifted up to ensure long-lasting result. Liposuction of the jaw and submental area (fatty neck) is often performed to achieve smooth and better contour.

Duration and anesthesia: 2 – 4 hours under local anesthesia with strong intravenous sedation. Duration depends on the type of procedure, because today exist various mini facelifts like S – lift, temporal lift, neck lift etc.

Recovery: Bandage and drains are removed in 1 – 2 days and the hair can be washed. Stitches are removed in 7-10 days. Cold camomile compresses are recommended.

Rare complications: Swelling due to hematomas, loss of skin sensation for several months, rare skin necrosis (especially behind the ears in heavy smokers), hypertrophy of the scars behind ears and neck, injury to facial nerves, change of hairline in temple and neck, alopecia along the temporal incision-normally temporary, occasionally permanent.