Every year I examine hundreds of men and women regarding facial plastic surgery, most commonly facial rejuvenation surgeries. During our meeting, I evaluate my patient's condition in detail and create a patient-specific treatment plan among the procedures that best meet their needs. During our interview process, my patients express their needs, ask questions that come to their mind, and receive scientific, up-to-date and detailed answers to these questions. Although each patient has unique questions and concerns, I often encounter some questions that most patients ask in common. Here are a few of these questions:
1. Are the results of face lift surgery permanent?
Yes, they are permanent. The results of most facelift procedures last a very long time, between seven and 15 years. The duration of effect may vary depending on the person's skin structure, skeletal structure, the technique used, and the surgeon applying the technique. Once a facelift is performed, it cannot be undone, and its effect is permanent in that it is irreversible. However, although the procedure will provide significant improvement in the visible signs of aging on your face, nothing can completely stop the aging process and you will continue to age in the years after surgery. Imagine having an identical twin whose face is exactly the same. The twin who had facial rejuvenation surgery will look better than the twin who did not have the surgery, whether 3 months after surgery, 3 years after surgery, or 10 years after surgery. On the other hand, both twins will continue to age over the years.
2. Will there be a scar?
The standard incision for face lift surgery starts from the inside of the hair, follows the natural skin fold just in front of the ear, then turns behind the ear and disappears among the hair. Although the incision leaves a scar behind, a significant part of the incision will be hidden in your hair, and the part that is not among the hair will be camouflaged in a natural curl. During the first 3-4 weeks of recovery, the scars will be red and noticeable. During this period, scars can be hidden with make-up and hairstyle. Once healing is complete, the scar is often very difficult to find, even for someone who knows exactly where to look.
3. What about the risks?
Risks arising from facelift surgery are quite rare when performed by a well-trained and experienced plastic surgeon. Loss of sensation in certain areas of the face, temporary muscle weakness, prolonged bruising or adverse reactions to the anesthesia drug used are some of the side effects after the procedure. You will also be informed about rare and more serious complications during the pre-operative interview.
4. What results should I expect?
You should expect realistic and natural results. As with any plastic surgery, the results of face lift surgery vary from person to person. The best candidates are people whose skin has just begun to sag with age but still has good elasticity. Having a good bone structure also helps the results to be positive. After a well-done facial rejuvenation surgery, you will look naturally refreshed and rested rather than overly “done up.” The purpose of a facelift is not to look like a teenager, but to remove the signs of aging on your face in order to have a more vigorous and energetic appearance.
5. What about the recovery process?
Although facelift surgery is a complex and delicate procedure, most patients report only minor discomfort during the recovery process. First of all, face lift surgery is not a painful surgery. Although it may take a little longer for some individuals to disappear from swelling and bruising, most people can return to work with concealer make-up in about two weeks. Most facial rejuvenation surgeons recommend their patients avoid strenuous activities for the first two weeks. To minimize the appearance of scars, patients should limit sun exposure during recovery and protect the entire face with sunscreen whenever they are outdoors.
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