What are the risks associated with Facelift Surgery?
Apart from the complications inherent in any surgical procedure, risks specific to facelift surgery include:
- Injury to the nerves that control facial muscles (this is usually temporary). The rate is estimated at approximately 0.7% of all facelifts. It usually corrects itself in about 6 months.
- Skin may take a longer time to recover – this is common for patients who smoke. Very uncommon is the skin necrosis (death).
- Scars – There will be some small scars, but surgeons will always do their best to hide them.
- Numbness around the incision areas – this should be temporary. This may include the skin around the cheeks, chin and neck. The feeling is usually recovered in 8-12 weeks, but may take longer for some patients.
- Skin or hair loss (very infrequent). The hair will re-grow within several months.
- Skin discolouration – This is exceedingly uncommon, but if it happens it will heal in a few months.
- Broken capillaries. This condition may already exist on the cheeks and neck and can be treated with laser.
Also, if bleeding under the skin or fluid build-up occurs this is known as a haematoma and it can leave the skin very red, puffy and extremely swollen. In order to halt the flow of blood and to remove it from under the skin, it may be necessary to operate again.
What happens if permanent damage occurs?
You might need further surgery to correct the problem.
When can I expect to feel fully recovered?
It may take you weeks or months to feel like your old self and be ready to face the world again. The key is to be as prepared as possible to follow your surgeon’s advice completely. For example, if you are physically fit when you have this operation, you will recover much more quickly.
Find out more
Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.
If you would like to find out more about facelift surgery or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.
