The facelift can be a complex plastic surgery procedure because a human’s face has several intricate features that must be handled carefully. Dr. V addresses various doubts and concerns during the initial consultation for patients in Chantilly, Northern Virginia, Loudoun County, Fairfax, Prince William, Fauquier, Arlington, Middleburg, Leesburg, Manassas, Warrenton, and surrounding communities. Here is a list of facelift FAQ that should address some of the common queries of patients with regard to this procedure.
When is it suitable to go out in the sun after a facelift?
Direct sun exposure should be avoided for several months after a facelift. If the healing scars exposed to direct sunlight, it can cause darkening of the healing area or hyper pigmentation. The sun can cause damage to the delicate post-surgical skin on a long-term basis, creating deeper facial lines and a more leathery skin appearance. The patient should wear sunblock SPF 15 or higher for the first few months when going out in the sun.
What is the suitable age for a facelift?
A facelift is typically performed on patients in the age group of 35 to 65. The idea age to perform a facelift may be 35 to 50 when the skin elasticity is stellar. In this age group, patients usually opt for a combination of facelift and liposuction. Younger patients can benefit from a maintenance lift to delay the onset of conspicuous aging signs.
Will there the hairline be in a different location after a facelift?
This can depend on an individual case and the particular surgical technique employed by the surgeon. Dr. V usually ensures that the hairline does not change for her patients in Chantilly, Northern Virginia, Loudoun County, Fairfax, Prince William, Fauquier, Arlington, Middleburg, Leesburg, Manassas, Warrenton, and other areas.
Will it be necessary to place drains after a facelift?
Drains may be placed in some cases to remove excessive blood and fluid after a facelift. If the procedure is extensive, and takes two to three hours or more, placing a drain may be necessary. Compressive garment can be used in many cases to help prevent the accumulation of fluid.
Is it possible to have a very minor facelift?
A mini facelift surgery can be recommended if the patient wants a maintenance procedure, and does not suffer from significant facial skin laxity. The mini facelift will usually involve reduction of excess skin, but not the lifting of underlying deeper tissue.
What is the expected recovery period?
Most patients will experience mild bruising and swelling for the first week. The patient may be able to go back to work within 10 to 14 days. After this period, regular activities and exercise can be resumed. However, heavy lifting and strenuous activities that cause a pull on the neck should be avoided for about four to six weeks.
What about the healing of scars?
An experienced plastic surgeon will place the incisions in discreet areas to keep the scars inconspicuous. Scars will mature within a period of six months to a year after the surgery. The healing of scars can vary from one patient to another, depending on individual healing characteristics.
For more infomation please contact Dr. V. Dr. Trang Thuy Vo-Nguyen, known to her patients as “Dr. V,” is a board certified facial plastic surgeon providing the latest surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures in Northern Virginia, Leesburg, Loudoun, Fairfax, Warrenton, Fauquier, Arlington, Manassas, Middleburg, Prince William, and other areas. https://thevirginiainstitute.com/contact-us/
