Facelift surgery involves using small incisions near the ears to lift up facial tissues, remove excess fat, and pull skin tissue tighter. The surgery results in a younger-looking appearance that will last 7 to 10 years.
Risks of Facelift Surgery
While facelifts are effective and safe for almost everyone, they do have some risks because they are surgical procedures. These risks are very small and include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Facial nerve injury
- Changes in skin sensation
- Pain
- Scarring
- Swelling
You may also be at risk for complications related to anesthesia, such as breathing problems, especially if your surgery takes longer than planned.
Improve Facelift Surgery Safety
Even with all these risks, facelift surgery is very safe, especially when performed by an experienced surgeon and surgical team. The more facelifts a plastic surgeon has performed, the more likely that you will have great results, no complications, and a great recovery.
You can also reduce risks associated with surgery by choosing a hospital or surgery center that has achieved Joint Commission accreditation. This accreditation means they have met stringent patient safety and quality requirements proven to result in better patient outcomes.
Your health and lifestyle can also play a large role in surgery safety. You might be at a higher risk for surgery complications if you:
- Smoke
- Have high blood pressure
- Have diabetes
- Take blood thinners
- Yo-yo diet
You should quit smoking and ensure any health conditions you have are well-managed weeks before you have your surgery. You’ll need to continue to manage these conditions after your surgery as well to have the best possible recovery and best possible results.
Finally, always follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions related to surgery preparation and surgery recovery. These instructions are meant to help protect you and your results.
At Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery in Virginia Beach, our experienced surgeon and staff have a proven track record of great patient outcomes. We are dedicated not only to your safety, but to delivering beautiful facelift results. Contact us today at (757) 496-5556; we are happy to answer any questions you have about facelift surgery and its safety.
