What Can a Facelift Address?

As we age, changes to facial tissues can include skin laxity, changes in soft tissue volume, and muscle tone. A facelift is a surgical procedure that may help reposition or reshape these tissues.

Depending on your individual needs, a facelift can be planned to address specific concerns such as:

• Changes to skin and tissue along the jawline or lower face
• Visible folds or creases around the mouth or chin area
• Soft tissue that appears lower on the face than previously

Every individual experiences these changes differently. A consultation will help determine whether a surgical approach is appropriate, or whether a non-surgical treatment may better suit your goals.

It’s important to understand that results vary, and there are no guarantees regarding appearance or outcomes.

Things to Consider Before a Facelift

Undergoing any surgical procedure is a personal decision that should be made with care and informed understanding. Before choosing to have a facelift, the following factors may be helpful to consider:

• Your general health: It’s important that you are in good overall health. Any existing medical conditions will be reviewed during your consultation.
• Medical history: A thorough discussion of your medical background, medications, and any previous procedures will assist in assessing suitability and planning safely.
• Time for recovery: Recovery varies from person to person. You’ll need to allow time for rest, follow-up care, and limited activity while healing takes place.
• Individual expectations: While many people are happy with their results, outcomes can vary. It’s important to understand what a facelift may or may not achieve for you.
• Non-surgical options: In some cases, non-surgical treatments may be an alternative to, or used alongside, surgery. These include skin tightening treatments that do not involve incisions.

Our team will guide you through all your options to help you make an informed decision. If a facelift is not suitable, we will discuss alternatives that may be more appropriate for your needs.

Facelift Aftercare and Recovery

Recovery after a facelift varies from person to person and depends on the surgical technique used, your general health, and how your body responds to the healing process. At Aesthetica, we are committed to providing continuous care and support throughout every stage of your recovery.

Immediate Post-Operative Care

Following your procedure, you’ll be monitored in our clinic before discharge. You may experience temporary swelling, bruising, or tightness. These are expected and generally settle over time.

• You’ll receive personalised post-operative instructions and a schedule of follow-up appointments.
• We offer 24-hour phone support to assist you with any questions or concerns during your recovery.
• LED light therapy is included as part of our care to support the healing process and reduce downtime, where appropriate.

Optional Supportive Therapies

In addition to standard post-surgical care, you may also choose to include:

• Oxygen therapy sessions, to support circulation and hydration during recovery
• Lymphatic drainage treatments, which may assist with fluid management post-operatively
• Specialised wound care products, selected to support the healing of your skin

These options are discussed during your post-operative appointments to determine what may be appropriate for your circumstances.

Getting Back to Daily Activities

Time away from regular activities is recommended. Some individuals return to light duties within two weeks, but this varies. You’ll be advised on when it is suitable to resume exercise, work, and social activities based on your healing progress.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Our care continues well beyond surgery. We may recommend skin support treatments or non-surgical options to help maintain your results over time, if appropriate for you. Everything is tailored to your individual needs.

Risks and Complications

All surgical procedures carry risks. During your consultation, your Plastic Surgeon will explain the potential complications and answer any questions you may have. Understanding these risks is an essential part of making an informed decision.

Some of the risks associated with facelift surgery may include:

• Bleeding or haematoma formation
• Infection
• Changes in skin sensation
• Visible or unfavourable scarring
• Delayed wound healing
• Asymmetry
• Nerve injury (which may affect facial movement)
• Need for further revision procedures

Individual factors such as your health, medical history, and response to surgery can influence the likelihood of complications. These will all be discussed with you in detail before any procedure is scheduled.

Facelift Consultation and Cost Information

As each facelift procedure is planned according to individual needs, costs can vary depending on the surgical approach, anaesthetic requirements, and any complementary treatments chosen.

We will provide you with a detailed estimate following your consultation, once a suitable treatment plan has been discussed and determined. This will include a breakdown of all associated fees and information to support your decision-making process.

We encourage you to take the time you need to consider your options. If you have questions or would like to learn more about facelift procedures, we invite you to book a consultation with our experienced team.