If you are considering a facelift surgery for the first time, you may be apprehensive about the process. Knowing what to expect from the surgery can set your mind at ease and help prepare you for your appointment.
At Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, we love making sure all of our patients feel comfortable and prepared for their surgeries. If you are interested in learning more about what to expect, here are 7 things to know about facelift surgery.
1. There Is No Substitute for a Facelift Surgery
Surgery is a big step, but for many people, a facelift surgery is the only thing that will give them the results they are looking for. This is because other less-invasive treatments are temporary and can’t always address all of your concerns.
Neuromodultators such as Botox can work well to help smooth wrinkles for a short period of time. And while this is the right choice for many people who are looking for a more temporary solution, additional treatments will be needed to maintain results.
Dermal fillers can also be a good solution for skin laxity and loss of fullness. But these treatments are also temporary and they can’t always address all of the loose skin and wrinkles that may be present. If you want a dramatic change that will last, there is no substitute for facelift surgery.
2. Your Recovery Area Will Need to Be Prepared Before Surgery
Preparing your home before the surgery is crucial for ensuring your speedy recovery. Your home should be prepared before you leave for surgery so that you can come right back and have everything you need. You will want to prepare your home by making sure your home is clean and free of clutter so that you can move around safely. You will also want to do some laundry and make sure you have plenty of comfortable loose-fitting clothes that are clean and ready to go.
Sleeping with your head elevated is an important part of the recovery process during the first few days. Prepare your sleeping area with 2 or 3 pillows so that you can sleep in a more upright position. You will also want to prepare your home by putting everything that you will need in an accessible location. Plan to have entertainment such as books and movies as well as food and beverages all within arms reach.
3. You Won’t Be Awake for Your Surgery
Many people are nervous about the surgery itself and whether it is painful. During the surgery, you will be under general anesthesia and you won’t experience any pain. When you wake up you may be drowsy, but pain medication will keep you from feeling too much discomfort. Some individuals may experience nausea from the pain medication, but we have treatments and medication to help with this if you are feeling apprehensive.
4. Facelifts Can Be Combined with Complexion Treatments
Because a facelift is a procedure that involves tightening the skin and removing any excess, it is ideal for addressing wrinkles, folds, and skin laxity. However, it cannot address complexion issues such as acne scarring, hyper pigmentation, or melasma. For these concerns, you may want to follow up your facelift with additional treatments such as microneedling or laser treatments to help gain a clear and smooth complexion.
5. Facelifts Can Last for Up to 10 Years
If you are looking for long-lasting results, a facelift is a good option. With proper care, your facelift can last for up to 10 years. At the end of this period, some people may find that they want an additional procedure due to increased skin laxity as part of the aging process. However, some people can even be happy with their results for longer.
6. Facelifts Can Also Address Neck Concerns
If one of your main concerns is folds, wrinkles, and loose skin in the neck, under the chin, and in the jowls, a facelift can be a great way to address these areas. Every surgery is different and we will always discuss the areas of concern that you have before planning the type of surgery you will receive. We also offer neck lift, brow lift, and eyelift lift surgery.
7. Aftercare Is Key to Success
With facelift surgery, your aftercare is a key part of the success of the surgery both in the long term and short term. It’s important to follow all of your doctor’s instructions after the surgery to help your incisions to heal quickly and cleanly. With proper care, your incisions and scarring can be discrete and unnoticable.
Taking care of your skin in the years following your surgery can make your facelift last much longer. You should make sure to protect your skin from the sun. Wear sunscreen any time you plan on being out and wear a hat to help block some of the sun’s harsh rays. You should also protect your skin by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking can all cause your skin to age faster.
Facelift Surgery Consultations in Burr Ridge, IL
At Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, we serve Burr Ridge, IL and the surrounding areas by offering facelifts and other surgeries and medspa treatments. We will walk with you through the whole process so that you can feel confident before, during, and after the surgery. Our consultations are an important step in the process since knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety about the surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with us. We look forward to helping you on your journey to looking more youthful and refreshed!