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There are many non-invasive procedures available today that compliment facial rejuvenation.  Many of these treatments (i.e. lasers, injectable fillers, botox, etc...) actually enhance your surgical results and assist in maintaining your youthful look.  If you choose to pursue more non-invasive treatments prior to facial rejuvenation surgery, understand that these procedures will not replace the results that can be achieved with a facelift.  Often times, non-invasive therapies can extend the time necessary for a facelift procedure and will not disturb or alter your surgical results when or if you decide to have surgery. 

At the time of your consultation with your selected physician it is important to be honest and realistic regarding your expectations for surgery.  Your physician will discuss with you any previous medical conditions, use of current medications (including supplements, vitamins, etc...), as well as take detailed measurements of your face.  In consultation your choices for anesthesia will also be discussed.

It is recommended, and most commonly required, that you discontinue smoking at least 4 weeks prior to surgery and maintain a smoke-free lifestyle for months following surgery.  This is critical for the healing process.  Your physician will also ask you to avoid any anti-inflammatory medications and/or supplements as well as aspirin prior to surgery as they contribute to blood thinning and can increase bleeding.  If you require any of these medications for pain management or pre-existing medical conditions, speak with your doctor about alternative treatments during your pre and post-op process.  Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

Depending on the degree of change you are achieving with your facial surgery, the incision and length of incision will be determined.  A traditional facelift incision often begins in the hairline at the temples, continues around the ear and ends in the lower scalp.  During the surgical procedure, fatty tissue may be repositioned while underlying facial muscles are lifted ans suspended.  The facial skin is then draped over the new contours of the face and any excess skin is removed.  If you are pursuing a less dramatic result, a shorter incision can be used which continues from the temples, around the ears to the lower hairline behind the ear.

The benefits and visible results of your facial rejuvenation procedure will be noticeable immediately.  However, for the first couple of weeks you will have bruising, swelling and redness.  In the days and weeks following surgery, you will see this discoloration and swelling lift to reveal your new youthful look.

There are a number of risks related to any facial rejuvenation surgery.  Your doctor will outline all possible side effects and other related things to consider when deciding if a facelift is right for you.  It is important to note that the night following surgery, you may be asked to stay in an outpatient surgery suite with 24-hour medical supervision or have a loved one care for you for the first 24 hours at home.  It is necessary to arrange for transportation to and from your surgery as it will be unsafe for you to drive immediately after.

A bandage will be placed around your head and over your face to help reduce swelling and bruising.  A small tube may be placed just under the skin to help drain excess fluids.  This is typically removed within 48 hours.  It is critical that you allow your body time to heal following surgery.  Avoid exercise, aggressive motions and clothing taken on and off over the head.  Your doctor will let you know when it is appropriate to return to your normal activities. 

It may take several months for swelling to fully dissipate and up to 6 months for incision lines to begin to fade.  A commitment to using proper sun protection is critical following surgery. It will not only help maintain your results, but help inhibit your skin from acquiring future sun damage and wrinkles.  As discussed before, facial fillers and wrinkle relaxer treatments can only enhance and help to maintain your surgical results for years to come.

COST

As is consistent with all other plastic surgery procedures the cost for a facelift will depend on the level of experience and training of that physician, your geographic location and the additional fees required for surgery.  Remember there is the surgeon's fees, surgical garments, anesthesia costs, surgery center expenses in addition to all post-operative medications.  Financing plans may be available through your chosen physician.  Generally, your facelift procedure will cost approximately $10,000+.  Eyelid surgery, browlift and a necklift may be recommended in addition to your facelift and will cost incrementally more depending on your surgical plan.

What are Pros and Cons?

The pros and cons section offers a quick, at-a-glance list of why or why not to have a certain procedure or try a given product.   Use this list to share and learn with others about what procedures and products you feel are the best or not-so-best.  Honest feedback from real people that have experienced the treatment or product themselves!