Facelift Surgery

Facelift Surgery

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that creates a younger look in the face. The procedure can reduce sagging skin and soft tissues. It can also help smooth folds of skin on the cheeks and define the jawline. A facelift is also called a rhytidectomy.

A facelift will not correct damage from sun exposure, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

Types of Facelifts

  • SMAS facelift:
    This is also known as a traditional facelift or full facelift. It’s suitable for people with moderate to severe signs of aging.
  • Deep plane facelift:
    Involves lifting soft tissues and skin as a composite flap, entering the Deep Plane over the masseteric fascia in a line between the corner of the eye and the angle of the jaw. By addressing the mobile SMAS and releasing the retaining ligaments, the optimal facial recontouring can be achieved with long-lasting results.
  • Mid-facelift:
    This procedure targets the area between the upper lip and the corner of the eyes.
  • Lower facelift:
    This procedure targets the lower part of the face.

How do I prepare for my upcoming facelift?

  • Diet: Maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein to support healing.
  • Exercise: Regular moderate exercise can improve blood circulation and overall health.
  • Smoking cessation: Quit smoking completely as it significantly hinders healing.
  • Medication management: Review medications: Inform your surgeon about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter drugs, as some may need to be stopped before surgery.
  • Aspirin and blood thinners: Be aware that you may need to stop taking certain medications like aspirin or other blood thinners before surgery to reduce bleeding risk.
Skincare routine:
  • Gentle cleansing: Use a mild cleanser and moisturizer to keep your skin clean and hydrated.
  • Sun protection: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF daily to protect your skin from sun damage.

Pre-operative tests:

  • Blood work: Your doctor may order blood tests to assess your overall health.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Depending on your health, an ECG may be necessary.
Logistics and planning:
  • Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from your surgery.
  • Recovery space: Prepare a comfortable area at home with pillows, ice packs, and necessary medications.
  • Time off work: Plan for time off work to allow for proper recovery.

What are the costs associated with facelifts?

The cost of a facelift varies depending on the type of procedure, your surgeon’s fee, anaesthetic costs, hospital stay and operating theatre costs. After your first appointment, you will receive a detailed quote. Please note that this procedure is cosmetic and not claimable from your private health fund or Medicare.

Complementary Treatments

A facelift and neck lift are often performed together to create a more youthful appearance for the face and neck.

How they work:

Facelift: Tightens facial muscles and removes excess skin to address sagging skin, wrinkles, and other concerns.

Neck lift: Tightens and smooths the skin on the neck to address sagging skin, wrinkles, and jowls.

FAQ’s

The best age to get a facelift depends on your unique factors, such as your genetics, lifestyle, and how quickly your skin ages. However, the ideal age is generally in your 50s- 60s.

The cost of a facelift varies depending on the type of procedure, your surgeon’s fee, anaesthetic costs, plus hospital stay and operating theatre costs. After your first appointment, you will receive a detailed quote. Please note that this procedure is cosmetic and not claimable from your private health fund or Medicare.

A typical recovery time for a facelift is around 2 to 4 weeks, with most people able to return to work within this timeframe, although it can take up to 6 months to see the full results of the procedure; during this period, you will experience bruising and swelling which usually peaks within the first few days and gradually fades over time.

Our Facelift Surgeons

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Please be aware that all surgical procedures require a consultation with our plastic surgeons to allow a thorough assessment and discussion of your specific needs.

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