Is Cosmetic Facial Surgery for You?
In the past, plastic surgery has been utilized for correction of physical deformities, disease, injury and birth defects. Today, facial cosmetic surgery is used to correct the signs of aging by tightening loose skin in the facial and neck areas.
The plastic facial surgeon performs a facelift, or rhytidectomy, to provide patients with a more youthful glow. If patients need only small bits of work, a mini face lift cosmetic surgery using smaller incisions would work best.
Plastic Neck Surgery
The plastic face surgeon can perform a neck lift if the neck area has begun to show signs of aging, or if someone has lost a significant amount of weight.
A neck lift, in conjunction with liposuction, is the right procedure to undergo. In a necklift procedure, liposuction removes excess fat, cervicoplasty removes excess skin, while platysmaplasty tightens the neck muscles.
Laser Neck Surgery
The surgeon can also use laser devices to correct sagging skin in the neck region. It also eliminates the appearance of jowls and horizontal bands, and tightens the muscles within the neck. With a laser procedure, the outer layers of the skin are removed.
This will reveal smoother, more rejuvenated-looking neck skin. The results will give patients the same look as traditional facial cosmetic surgery.
A laser neck procedure works best for patients who already have good facial bone structure; however, if elasticity is lost from the neck, laser surgery is not the best choice. The individual is placed under local anesthetics with a mild sedative for this procedure.
Aesthetic Facial Surgery/Common Procedures
In conjunction with, or aside from, facial cosmetic surgery, patients can opt to have several common procedures performed:
- Cheekbone Implants
- Chin Surgery
- Ear Surgery
- Eyelid Surgery
- Forehead/Brow Lift
- Lip Enhancement
- Nasal Reconstruction
And in conjunction with, or aside from, traditional cosmetic facial surgery, patients can opt for non-invasive techniques such as:
- Botox injections
- Chemical Peels
- Dermabrasion
- Injectable Fillers
Facial cosmetic surgery can help improve the self-esteem of patients by giving them a more youthful appearance. Perhaps the most common facial cosmetic surgery procedures are a face lift, eye lift, and neck lift. Be sure to review the risks, complications, and other requirements with your facial cosmetic surgeon before making your final decision.
How to Prepare for Facial Cosmetic Surgery
Preparation is a key factor in ensuring a successful facial cosmetic surgery experience. Before the procedure, patients should stop smoking, avoid alcohol, and discontinue any blood-thinning medications or supplements (unless otherwise approved by a doctor).
It’s also important to arrange for a caregiver and prepare your home with soft foods, ice packs, and prescribed medications. Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and discuss any concerns during your pre-operative consultation.
Facial Plastic Surgery Recovery Time
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure, but most patients experience bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort for the first week or two. Bandages may be applied to reduce swelling, and compression garments are often used following neck or jawline procedures.
Most people can resume light activities after 10 to 14 days, but should avoid strenuous exercise for 3 to 6 weeks. Final results can take several weeks to become fully visible, and following post-op care instructions will ensure the best possible outcome.