Facelift FAQ & A With a Facial Plastic Surgeon – PART II

We hope you’re enjoying our series on facelifts. They’re definitely a hot topic. Facelifts and neck lifts consistently rank in the Top 5 of Australia’s most requested cosmetic surgery procedures for facial rejuvenation. Patients seeking to educate themselves before committing to a makeover understandably have lots of questions. In this article, we’re answering more of them.

Facelifts and You

Q: How do I know if I’m a good candidate for a facelift?

Your surgeon can only answer this question after he/she talks with you and examines you. In general, the best candidates for facelifts and all aesthetic enhancement surgery have a realistic expectation about the benefits they will enjoy. Of course, in addition to good mental health, patients should be in good physical health.

Once someone has earned their gold stars for a sound mind and body, Dr Marcells will evaluate the patient’s skin elasticity and underlying facial bone structure to determine the best techniques to employ.

Facelifts and Your Fears

Q: What are the risks and complications associated with a facelift?

Any time there is trauma to the human body, there are risks and complications. These problems include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Damage to sensory nerves
• Damage to motor nerves
• Scarring
• An outcome that is not aesthetically pleasing

A well-trained, experienced surgical team (doctor, anaesthetist, nurse) reduces these risks dramatically.

Facelifts and Your Procedure (Preparing)

Q: Is there anything I should do to get ready for a facelift?

This is an important question. Lifestyle changes prior to surgery can reduce risks and increase the chances of your desired outcome. Most of these activities focus on maintaining optimal blood flow, which is essential to wound repair. Four weeks before your procedure:

• Get regular exercise
• Enjoy a low sodium diet
• Refrain from smoking

Facelifts and Your Procedure (Surgery Day)

Q: What are the after-effects and recovery time after a facelift?

Discomfort is common after a facelift. The pain usually lasts 2-3 days and is generally managed by mild painkillers. Swelling and bruising are also part of facelift recovery.

It will take 10-14 days for visible signs of surgery to diminish significantly and for patients to feel comfortable resuming their activities.

Facelifts and Your Procedure (After Care)

Q: What happens after a facelift procedure? Will I look like a mummy?

When your surgery is complete, you will be taken to a recovery room in the hospital and monitored with care by our staff. When you are ready, you will be moved to a private room where you will get a good night’s rest.

The next morning, Dr Marcells, himself, will return to remove your bandages and inspect the surgical sites on your face. Incision sites are cleansed and a fresh, lighter bandage is applied. Unless there is a significant problem, you will leave that day.

Facelifts and Your Procedure (Home Care)

Q: What are my responsibilities after surgery?

Before you leave for home, you will receive information on how to care for your incisions until the stitches are removed in four to seven days. Dr Marcells will also discuss the importance of a good skincare regimen and maintenance treatments such as dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers.

Do you have more questions? We have more answers! Be sure to read parts I and III of our 3-part series on facelifts.

Meet Dr Marcells in Person

If you need more information about anything mentioned in this article or have questions of your own, please contact us on 1300 555 095. You can also use email or the ‘book consultation’ feature of this website to make an appointment. We’re waiting for your call.