Our Summary

This research paper talks about the various techniques and additional measures used in facelift surgery. The research found evidence supporting the use of pre-infiltration (injecting fluid into an area before surgery), fat grafting (moving fat from one part of the body to another), and laser skin resurfacing (a procedure that uses lasers to improve the look and feel of the skin). These methods seem to be safe and effective for the right patients. Using a drain during surgery is not necessary, but may have some benefits. However, the use of fibrin tissue adhesives (a type of surgical glue) and hilotherapy (a cooling treatment used to reduce swelling and pain) does not have strong evidence to support its effectiveness.

FAQs

  1. What techniques are commonly used in facelift surgery?
  2. Is the use of drains mandatory in facelift surgery?
  3. What is the evidence for the use of fibrin tissue adhesives and hilotherapy in facelift surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about facelift surgery is to follow their post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the incision sites clean and dry, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to the doctor promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for facelift surgery are those who are looking to address signs of aging such as sagging skin, deep folds and wrinkles on the face and neck, loss of facial volume, and jowls. Candidates for facelift surgery are typically in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure, and are non-smokers. It is important for patients to have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are good candidates for facelift surgery and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before facelift surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations
  2. Pre-operative evaluation and medical clearance
  3. Discussion of surgical techniques, potential risks, and post-operative care
  4. Pre-infiltration of the surgical site to minimize bleeding and bruising
  5. Surgery scheduling and preparation instructions

After facelift surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in a recovery room with monitoring
  2. Pain management and instructions for wound care
  3. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and remove sutures
  5. Gradual improvement in appearance as swelling subsides and scars fade
  6. Long-term maintenance with proper skincare and sun protection.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with facelift surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery time and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  4. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to achieve similar results?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  6. How many facelift surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  7. Can you show me before and after photos of previous facelift patients?
  8. What is the expected outcome of the surgery and how long will the results last?
  9. Are there any specific factors that may affect the outcome of my facelift surgery?
  10. What is the cost of the procedure and are there any financing options available?

Reference

Authors: Urso-Baiarda F, Edmondson SJ, Grover R. Journal: Facial Plast Surg. 2018 Dec;34(6):624-630. doi: 10.1055/s-0038-1675750. Epub 2018 Dec 28. PMID: 30593078