THE PROCEDURE

Incisions usually begin above the hairline at the temples, extend in a natural line in front of the ear or just inside the cartilage at the front of the ear, and continue behind the earlobe to the lower scalp.  If the skin of the neck needs work, a small incision may be made under the chin.  Generally,  Dra. Peña separates the skin from the fat and muscle below.  Fat may be trimmed or suctioned from around the neck and chin to improve the contour.  The underlying muscle and membrane are tightened, the skin is pulled back, and excess skin is removed.  Stitches secure the layers of tissue and close the incisions. Metal clips may be used on the scalp.  

Following surgery, a small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin ear to drain any blood that might collect. Your head may also be wrapped loosely in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling. After the surgery, your face will be bandaged in compression dressings and facial movements must be restricted for a few days. Stitches are removed within five to twelve days and you can return to work after about two weeks. However, a face-lift requires about three to six months to become fully effective and it is recommended that you massage your face (postoperatively) with a moisturizing cream.

RECOMMENDATIONS

During the early days of the recovery period it is recommended not to bend, lift or exert oneself, because such activities could cause bleeding.

It is crucial to avoid factors that could reduce the benefits of surgery, such as excessive and unprotected sun exposure and smoking.

RESULTS

After surgery there may be swelling, bruising and tenderness but these conditions are treated with pain relievers and sedatives. Women can resume the use of make-up as soon as the stitches are removed.

The scars that accompany this procedure are generally inconspicuous and do fade with time. Sometimes there is a temporary feeling of tension or numbness across the cheeks which can last up to twelve months, but is not permanent.

In men there may be an alteration of the hairline and beard pattern as well as a permanent loss of hair at the actual incision sites. Also, there is a minor risk of bleeding under the skin, but this is very rare and easily treated. It would not affect the final result of your surgery. However, this is one of the reasons it is advised to keep your activity to a minimum after surgery.

After undergoing a facelift, the results could be either dramatic or subtle, this depends on your appearance before the surgery, as well as your specific goals.