Facial rejuvenation can be a life-changing experience. It can help boost your confidence and make you look as great on the outside as you feel on the inside. In preparation for facial surgery UK, however, careful consideration is required.
Before you proceed, it’s important to understand exactly what a facelift entails, whether you’re a suitable candidate for face lift surgery, what to expect during recovery, and how long the results can last.
Facelift Surgery: What’s Included?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the face and neck. Improvements in youthful facial contours are achieved by removing excess skin and tightening the underlying tissues.
Facelift surgery typically involves making incisions along the hairline and around the ears, allowing the surgeon to make the necessary adjustments to the deeper facial structures. You surgeon may recommend a deep plane facelift or SMAS facelift.
Depending on your specific needs, additional face procedures such as a brow lift, and eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) may be performed simultaneously to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
In certain cases, your surgeon may also recommend a nose job (rhinoplasty surgery), jawline liposuction or lip lift to achieve a more balanced facial appearance and contour.
Surgery for Face: Are You a Facelift Candidate?
Ideal candidates for facial surgery are individuals who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcome, and are unhappy about the visible signs of aging such as loose skin, deep creases, and loss of facial volume.
Keep in mind that a face and neck lift are often performed together, so if you’re also bothered by sagging skin under the chin or neck area, facial rejuvenation surgery may be perfect for you.
Your facial plastic surgeon will evaluate your medical history, assess your facial features and anatomy, and discuss your aesthetic goals to determine the most suitable treatment plan.
Are You Mentally Prepared for the Recovery Process?
Navigating Social Downtime
Facial surgery procedures typically come with varying degrees of social downtime. Recovery from facial plastic surgery can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of your surgery.
Immediately post-surgery, you can expect considerable swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can last for several weeks. Over the coming weeks and months, these will gradually lessen. The final result can take up to a year to become noticeable as your tissues, scars and facial skin settle.
To prevent complications, make sure to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your cosmetic surgeon diligently. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Emotional Support During Recovery
It’s normal to experience emotional highs and lows during the recovery process, and the first couple of weeks can be especially challenging. Having a strong support system in place following cosmetic procedures can be beneficial as you navigate through the healing journey.
What Kind of Results Can You Expect with Face Plastic Surgery?
While individual results may vary, most patients experience a noticeable improvement in their face and neck appearance following a facelift.
You’ll look like a younger, more refreshed version of yourself. You’ll have smoother skin, fewer lines and wrinkles, and a more defined jawline and neck.
Keep in mind that while a facelift can turn back the clock on aging, it cannot stop the natural aging process altogether. That’s why maintaining a healthy lifestyle and skincare regimen can help prolong the results of your facelift.
How Long Does a Surgical Facelift Last?
The longevity of results from a surgical facelift varies from person to person and depends on factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and skincare maintenance. On average, the effects of a facelift can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
While the aging process will continue, many patients find that they still look younger and more refreshed compared to if they hadn’t undergone the procedure. Some may choose to undergo additional procedures or non-invasive treatments such as dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections to maintain their results over time.
