Facelift: before, during and after treatment
The first consultation
You have probably thought about a facelift for a long time before you actually take the step to the clinic. Perhaps you have been bothered by the sagging of your skin, or just your wrinkles, for much longer, and you often look more tired than you actually feel inside. If you have then taken the first step to come for a consultation, that is immediately the right time to see what is actually possible. In fact, there are numerous techniques when it comes to a surgical lift of the face. Which technique is right for you? You decide that together with your surgeon.
At Skin + Surgery, you will therefore always come for a consultation with the surgeon who will actually perform the operation on you. Together, you look at your skin, your face, but also discuss your age and general health. This is the moment when the options and the before and after results are examined.
The second consultation
From experience, we know that many questions come after the initial consultation. As surgery day approaches, you may still have questions, and nerves are probably also around the corner. At Skin + Surgery Clinics, we think it is very important that you go into the surgery feeling confident. This will promote your speedy recovery. This is why we schedule a second consultation as standard two weeks before the procedure. The surgeon and consultant will calmly answer all your questions, big or small. This way, you will be completely "ready" for your operation.
On the day of surgery
The surgeon will see you again on the day of surgery. Pre-op photos will be taken and your face will be signed off. Your blood pressure will be measured one last time and you will be given a tablet of antibiotics and medication against swelling. The operation is performed under sedation. You sleep during the procedure, but you still breathe on your own. In contrast to general anaesthesia, you are easily awake and recover quickly after the procedure. Our anaesthetist stays with you to monitor you during and after the procedure. To ensure that you experience little pain during and after the procedure, the face is also anaesthetised locally.
During the operation
The doctors at Skin + Surgery work according to specialist facelift protocol. The main principles here are to minimise swelling, prevent bruising and limit visible scarring. Expert work is therefore carried out to loosen the top skin layer. To lift the underlying tissue layer (the so-called SMAS layer) as well, the "deep plane technique" is used. This is essential for a long-lasting beautiful and natural result.
Incisions are expertly made in the hairline and natural skin folds of the ear. Blood vessels are taken care of during the procedure to avoid bruising as much as possible.
Special, sturdy facelift sutures are used for a long-lasting lift. The skin is draped and sutured in nice and tight. The procedure is then over. A good pressure bandage is put on to minimise swelling and bruising.
After surgery
We will wake you up when the operation is over. You can then recover in the recovery room. Before you go home, the surgeon will check on you and ask how you are doing. You will also be given preventive medication to prevent swelling and infection. We give you all medication from the clinic. So you do not have to visit the pharmacy yourself.
On the day after surgery, you will be called for check-up by the consultant or by the surgeon himself. In addition, the clinic is available 24 hours a day for emergencies and medical questions.
It is advisable to take it easy for the first week after surgery. During this period, you will also return for check-ups and removal of the stitches. The same surgeon you were treated by will be able to tell you when you can resume your daily activities. Keep in mind that you will avoid heavy physical exertion for the first six weeks, but after one to two weeks you will be presentable for social activities again. Recovery from a facelift takes time, but after a few weeks you often see very nice results.
Want to know if you are a suitable candidate for a face and/or neck lift? Feel free to contact us, then we would love to meet you during a consultation!