What do you need to know about facelifts?

Having a facelift is a big decision and you’ll want to find out as much as you can to help you make good choices.  Dr Stolte is on hand to guide you through the various options and recommend the right one for you.  Here are a few of the Frequently asked questions which we hope you will find helpful.

What happens during a facelift?

A non-surgical facelift involves the careful injection of fillers that can help to replace lost volume in specific points in the face. This can help to increase the firmness of skin, create volume where it has been lost and decrease the appearance of fine lines like crows’ feet and laugh lines. The results of the procedure will vary from person to person. Through a consultation, you can get a better idea of what to expect from the treatment given your own circumstances and the recommended approach.

How long does a facelift take?

On average, a facelift will take around 90 minutes, but it’s not unheard of for procedures to take up to 2-5 hours. After the surgery, you should be able to go home on the same day.

How many treatments should I need?

A facelift is a long-term cosmetic surgery, so you should only need on treatment, provided you receive it from a qualified, experienced surgeon.

Is anaesthetic used during a facelift?

Yes, you will receive one of two types of anaesthetic during the procedure. In some cases, local anaesthetic is applied to the area the surgeon will be operating on, which involves injecting the anaesthetic directly into the area. The other option is a topical anaesthetic, which are similar to local anaesthetics but are applied manually on the skin.

What are the side effects of a facelift?

Some side effects are expected as a result of a facelift treatment, including bruising, swelling and soreness, all of which should subside within 2 days. If they persist, you should seek medical attention.

Persistent symptoms could be a sign of hematoma. If you also experience a fever, this may be due to a infection. Some patients may also experience an allergy to the anaesthetic used during the surgery or asymmetry.

When do I see results from my facelift?

The results of a facelift vary from person to person. However, the lifting effect is immediately visible while the complete rejuvenation of the face and the natural, youthful look that comes with it should come into effect within 3 months.

How long should my results last?

Once more, results will vary, but the results of your facelift should last from between 18 months to 24 months. If you want to maintain your appearance, you can arrange a consultation for a repeat treatment.

How quickly can I get back to work after treatment?

Some patients may be back to work in the same day, but recovering from the bruising and swelling that comes immediately after the treatment can take up to two days. Most patients allow for three days before returning to work.

How long does it take for a full recovery?

It takes an average of 14 days for you to recover completely from the treatment, after which you should suffer none of the side effects and feel no pain. If any issues persist after this, get in touch and we can see if any complications need to be addressed or if it might simply take more time.