Our Summary

This research paper examines if using a hemostatic net (a special mesh-like material) can help prevent a complication called hematoma (a collection of blood outside the blood vessels) during facelift surgery. The study looked at two groups of patients who had facelift surgery by the same doctor. One group of 304 patients had the hemostatic net used during their surgery between 2017 and 2022. The other group of 359 patients did not have the net used during their surgery, which took place between 1999 and 2004.

By comparing these two groups, the researchers found that the group in which the hemostatic net was used had a significantly lower rate of hematoma (0.6%) compared to the group that did not use the net (3.9%). These findings suggest that using a hemostatic net during facelift surgery is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of developing a hematoma.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the hemostatic net in facelift surgery?
  2. How significant was the reduction in hematoma rate when using the hemostatic net during facelift surgery?
  3. Was the use of hemostatic net found to be a safe and effective method in facelift surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about facelift surgery is to consider using a hemostatic net during the procedure to help reduce the risk of developing a hematoma, a potential complication. This study showed that using a hemostatic net can significantly lower the rate of hematoma occurrence, making it a safe and effective option for improving surgical outcomes.

Suitable For

Facelift surgery is typically recommended for patients who are looking to improve the appearance of sagging or loose skin on the face and neck, as well as reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Candidates for facelift surgery are usually in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure, and do not have any serious medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications during surgery.

Patients who are considering facelift surgery should also be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after the procedure, as smoking can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It is also important for patients to have good skin elasticity and a stable weight, as significant fluctuations in weight can affect the results of the surgery.

Overall, facelift surgery is best suited for patients who are looking to rejuvenate their appearance and are willing to follow pre and post-operative instructions to ensure a safe and successful outcome.

Timeline

Before facelift surgery:

  • Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential risks of the procedure.
  • Pre-operative assessments are performed to ensure the patient is a good candidate for surgery.
  • Patient receives instructions on pre-operative preparation, including avoiding certain medications and alcohol, and quitting smoking.
  • Surgery date is scheduled, and patient arranges for someone to drive them home after the procedure.

During facelift surgery:

  • Patient arrives at the surgical facility and is prepped for surgery.
  • Anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
  • The plastic surgeon performs the facelift surgery, which involves tightening and repositioning the skin and underlying tissues of the face and neck.
  • The hemostatic net may be used to help control bleeding during the surgery.
  • The incisions are closed, and bandages are applied to protect the surgical site.

After facelift surgery:

  • Patient is monitored in a recovery area until they are awake and stable.
  • Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort.
  • Patient receives post-operative care instructions, including how to care for the incisions, when to follow up with the surgeon, and when to resume normal activities.
  • Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common in the days following surgery, but gradually improve over time.
  • Results of the facelift become more apparent as the swelling subsides, and the final outcome is typically seen several months after surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a hematoma and why is it a potential complication of facelift surgery?
  2. How is a hemostatic net used during facelift surgery and how does it help prevent hematoma?
  3. What are the risks and benefits of using a hemostatic net during facelift surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative methods or techniques to prevent hematoma during facelift surgery?
  5. How common is hematoma in patients who undergo facelift surgery without a hemostatic net?
  6. What is the success rate of using a hemostatic net in preventing hematoma during facelift surgery?
  7. Are there any specific factors that may make a patient more or less suitable for using a hemostatic net during facelift surgery?
  8. How long is the recovery process typically for patients who have had a facelift surgery with a hemostatic net?
  9. Are there any other potential complications or side effects associated with using a hemostatic net during facelift surgery?
  10. What is the overall satisfaction rate of patients who have had a facelift surgery with a hemostatic net compared to those who have not?

Reference

Authors: Janssen TJ, Maheshwari K, Sivadasan A, Waterhouse N. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2023 Sep 14;43(10):1106-1111. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjad097. PMID: 37040449