Facelift Surgery Guide: 5 Questions You Should Always Ask

Many people don’t know that there are different types of facelift surgeries. Depending on what changes you’d like to see and which facial features you want to enhance, there are a few options that can be tailored for you.

• A mini facelift, otherwise known as a minilift, targets drooping jowls and neck. It’s characterized by shorter incisions and a less dramatic lift, which can be ideal for someone who has mild to moderate laxity in the jawline.
• A full facelift is for someone who has more severe sagging or deep creases that can’t be corrected with a simple tuck.
• A brow lift specifically works to smooth the forehead and elevate the brows.

Not only are there different facelift types, but there are also several techniques. There are the SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system) and sub-SMAS lifts, which target underlying supportive facial layers, including fascia, muscle, or both. This is considered ideal for long-lasting improvements and for ensuring no unnecessary tension on the skin.

Another alternative is the endoscopic facelift, which uses smaller incisions and requires less downtime but doesn’t deliver the same longevity of results. Additionally, facial implants or dermal fillers can be used in conjunction with facelift surgery to add volume to the cheeks or chin.

Because there are quite a few options regarding types and techniques, it’s essential to discuss them with your surgeon. Depending on your goals, finances, and expectations for recovery time, your surgeon will be able to recommend a course of treatment to suit your needs.

Once you have a surgical plan, you should discuss any concerns you have about the procedure itself. You may be worried that your results will look tight or unnatural because of the images you’ve seen online or in the media. Your surgeon can assure you that today’s advanced methods involve tightening muscle and repositioning fat as well as the skin. This avoids the “stretched” look of facelifts from years ago.

You should also ask your surgeon openly about potential risks. There are inherent risks involved with any cosmetic procedure. It’s vital that you discuss and understand what these are, as well as your surgeon’s approach to mitigating those.

Before your appointment, be prepared for your surgeon to inquire about your medical history and lifestyle. They’ll take your health and safety seriously. That means factoring in any prescription medications, immunity or healing issues, alcohol, nicotine, and other factors. Feel free to ask what you can do beforehand to prepare for your face lift surgery. In the days before your procedure, you will receive helpful tips for preparation and instructions for the surgery day. For instance, patients need to avoid eating past midnight the night before and make sure they have a ride home afterwards.

You’ll definitely want to understand recovery and what you can do to enable your tissues to heal quickly and safely. Healing time varies, depending on which surgical method you choose and whether you have any additional factors like implants. Your physician will outline the recovery timeline, so you don’t schedule something like a special event before you’re ready. They will also detail when you can return to exercise and how you can take care of your incisions while you recuperate. You can ask about all of these guidelines in relation to your routine and daily activities.

Electing to have facial surgery is an empowering decision. It’s about looking as good on the outside as you feel. The experience should be comfortable, safe, and empowering from start to finish. An expert surgeon understands that and will welcome any questions and concerns you may have. Be wary of someone who dismisses your queries or who doesn’t provide detail about the essential things above.