Facelift is an operation to rejuvenate the face and can include the neck.
There are a number of options depending on your skin type and the desired result.
The nearest to your end-result you can see for yourself pre-operatively, is to lie flat on your back and look at yourself in the mirror.
The scars from a facelift:
• Are situated in front of and partially hidden within the ear; behind the ear with possible extensions into the hair at the back and at the front.
• A mid-face lift can be done with scars hidden inside the mouth only.
• (A threadlift leaves no scars at all and is discussed in a separate leaflet)
A facelift is performed under General Anaesthesia and involves the face and underlying tissues (SMAS), but can include the neck if you wish. A facelift using the MACS system utilises a short scar around the ear and permanent sutures within the SMAS layer of the face. A mid-face lift is done through the mouth and involves the placement of Endotines (http://www.coaptsystems.com/products/mid_face.html) which gradually dissolves over the next 9 months to leave the tissues in their new position. Which lift you choose depends on what you wish to achieve and Barbara Jemec will discuss your options with you at the consultation.
For a SMAS facelift you will have a small drain (thin plastic tube to drain away the excess fluid) on either side coming out behind your ears. This will be removed the next day. For a MACS lift you may also have drains. For a mid-face lift using Endotines there are no drains, but you must be meticulous about your oral hygiene and eat only liquid food for five days post-op. You can go home the same day or stay in overnight and you will have painkillers and antibiotics to take home.
You should sleep with three pillows or a couple of phone books under the head end of your bed and avoid bending down for the first three days at least. Stitches around the ear are removed day 5, but stitches inside the mouth are dissolvable. You may be bruised and swollen for up to two 2 weeks, during which time you should avoid vigorous exercise. Depending on your job you should take 1-2 weeks off work.
The potential complications from facelift surgery are:
• Bad scars (you will have scars, but they are mostly hidden and of good quality)
• A bleed under the skin which necessitates your return to theatres for the blood to be removed
• Infection
• Wound dehiscence (the wound may come apart in some areas especially if you smoke)
• Skin loss (if you smoke)
• Facial palsy (very rare and usually revolves within 3 months)