• • Who is it for?

  Facelifts are performed on both women and men over the age of 45. Age, of course, is not a determining factor for the operation. When the wrinkles are many and intense and the sagging of the skin at such an advanced stage that betrays the aging of the body, then it is the right time to do the Facelift. At younger ages, the use of non-invasive methods, such as hyaluronic acid injections, is indicated.

   

  • The first visit to the doctor’s office

  During the first discussion with the Plastic Surgeon, the motives that led the person concerned to make this decision and whether they correspond to reality must be clarified. Then, once they are proven reasonable, the size of the problem will be evaluated along with taking photos for a future comparison. An assessment of the results and possible complications is always important to make. Following this, the date and procedures of the operation can be set or other alternative methods of solving the problem can be suggested.

   

  • Is Facelift surgery painful?

  Facelift is a safe and effective method that aims to renew appearance and offer a natural result without pain. During the operation, according to patient testimonies, there is no pain and only after the operation the patient feels a weight on the face that gradually, over the first two days, subsides.

   

  • What complications may occur?

  Complications are rare and the experience and familiarity of the Plastic Surgeon is required for their avoidance. In case a complication occurs, it will be treatable after proper care, medical attention or surgery. Some of them are hematomas, scarring, infection, temporary paralysis of a nerve, necrosis of a skin part, etc.

   

  • What kind of exams will be needed before the Facelift?

  Before any operation it is necessary to do some tests for preventive reasons. Therefore, a review is made of the candidate’s medical history, in order to determine any chronic conditions or drugs that cause an allergic reaction, general blood tests, an electrocardiogram, a chest x-ray and maybe some additional biochemistry tests.

• How long does the Facelift last and what kind of anesthesia is required?

The duration varies depending on the extent and type of problem that the Plastic Surgeon is called upon to correct and the technique or combination of techniques he will use. Usually, it is estimated that the operation can take from 2 to 4.5 hours. Also, depending on the type of operation, either general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia with  sedation can be performed.

• During surgery

Facelift can be performed using various techniques. The Plastic Surgeon, judging carefully and in detail the needs of each case, can choose the appropriate technique. In general, each Facelift involves making incisions in the scalp, forehead, and back of the ears so that they are not visible and help lift the skin and tighten the underlying tissues and muscles. At the same time, the excess skin is removed, and the fatty tissue is removed from the neck area. Finally, the operation is completed by suturing the incisions.

• After surgery

The patient can leave the clinic after a few hours, if local anesthesia with sedation has been opted for, otherwise, they should stay for 24 hours. In any case, of course, it would be prudent for the patient to spend the night in the clinic so that the next day the drainage tube is removed. The patient’s face will appear swollen and bruised for about 1 week. This should not cause fear and anxiety because gradually, over a period of 20 days, it will subside with the help of the elastic bandage and the results will already be obvious. At the same time, they will be given analgesics for the avoidance of any pain, a special cream for smoothing the scars and postoperative instructions. The sutures will be removed after 15 days. Full recovery will occur after the first month.

• In how many days can one return to one’s daily activities?

Following a medical recommendation, the patient will need to rest for about 1 week and avoid strenuous activity. During this time, they should wear a special elastic bandage on their face to avoid any complications. At the end of the week they will be able to return to their workplace and their daily activities.

• Results

Facelift offers a “fresh” result in just 1 month and promises a more radiant and renewed image that lasts for about 10 years depending on the age, skin type and lifestyle of the candidate. The earlier the operation is performed, when the wear of the time has not left its strong marks, the more effective the method is.