FAQ: Facelift
Here’s What You Need to Know About Getting a Facelift
Choosing cosmetic surgery can be a lengthy and emotional process. There’s a lot to consider, from what you’d like to accomplish through the procedure and the recovery process. Facelifts are among the most requested face procedures, beating out neck lifts, ear surgery, and more. If you’re thinking about a facelift, talk to Long Island, NY’s experts in numerous cosmetic surgeries. Island Plastic Surgery specializes in face procedures, from eyelid surgery to reconstructive operations. Dr. Pamela Gallagher and her team are always happy to discuss facelifts with prospective patients. However, we understand you have a lot of questions before you even step foot in our office. We’ve answered some of our most common questions below, but feel free to reach out to our staff with further concerns.
When Is the Right Time for a Facelift?
Many patients are under the impression there’s a particular age when facelifts become appropriate. However, the “right time” for a facelift varies greatly from person to person. If you’re struggling with self-confidence, it might be time for a facelift, regardless of your age. Generally speaking, a facelift may be a good choice for you if you notice excess skin or fat in the neck and jawline area. It’s also a solution for those who haven’t found success with less invasive treatments.
How Much Younger Will I Look After the Procedure?
Similar to the question answered above, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. How much younger you appear depends on a variety of factors that vary among patients. Bone structures, genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle habits might all contribute to how much more youthful you look after a facelift. Dr. Gallagher can explain more of these factors, as well as let you know what to expect upon completion of the operation.
Does a Facelift Eliminate Lines Around the Eyes and Forehead?
If you’re looking to change the appearance of the upper part of your face, a facelift may not be the best choice for you. Should you want to address a sagging brow or lines and wrinkles around the eyes, you may find more benefit in a brow lift or eyelid surgery. In any case, Dr. Gallagher and the team at Island Plastic Surgery can help you choose the best option for your circumstances.
Will My Face Appear to Tight After a Facelift?
It seems to be a prevailing notion that a facelift will make you appear unnatural or too tight around the mouth. Luckily, this is rarely the case. At Island Plastic Surgery, facelifts are meant to make the face look natural and more youthful. Dr. Gallagher takes care not to pull the skin so tight that it makes you look unnatural.
Will Facial Exercises Work Just as Well?
If your concerns are the result of aging, facial exercises are unlikely to work. In fact, repetitive facial exercise may even make sagging skin and wrinkles worse over time. If you’re looking to see real results, you’ll want to discuss a facelift or injections with your plastic surgeon. The team at Island Plastic Surgery can point you in the right direction to achieve your cosmetic goals.
How Long Does a Facelift Take?
The length of a facelift operation will vary depending on what you’d like done. On average, you can expect a facelift to last two to three and a half hours. However, facelifts sometimes include additional procedures, such as facial fat grafting or eyelid surgery. If you’re interested in one or more of these procedures as well, your facelift will last an additional few hours. Dr. Gallagher will make sure you understand how much time you’ll need to set aside for the procedure.
Will Any Scars Be Noticeable?
Most often, any scarring you receive from a facelift procedure will be hidden by your hairline. Most incisions begin at the temple and reach toward the ear. While you might be able to see some scarring in the months following the procedure, they’ll fade over time and become less noticeable.
What Is the Recovery Process?
Your specific recovery process will vary based on the extent of your facelift and several other contributing factors. However, Island Plastic Surgery is happy to provide you with some general guidelines on how to recover from a facelift. You’ll want to stick to a healthy diet and get plenty of rest for the first few weeks after the face procedure. Usually, recovery takes around 10 days, and patients can return to work and their daily routine after about two weeks.
Will My Face Go Numb?
Many patients are concerned about numbness after a facelift. Not to worry—some numbness around the cheeks and neck is normal. In most cases, the numbness subsides after one or two months after the procedure.
How Long Will My Results Last?
How long you’ll see results, again, depends on the patient. Some patients enjoy the results of their facelift for years, but we can’t always accurately predict the length of your results before the procedures. Many people benefit from occasional touch-ups or additional skincare treatments such as laser rejuvenation. You can also make a few lifestyle changes to help extend your results. Avoid too much sun exposure, wear sunscreen, and invest in professionally-recommended skincare products.
Ready to Set Up a Consultation?
No matter your cosmetic goals, Island Plastic Surgery is always happy to answer your questions. Whether you’re considering a full facelift or something more minor like rhinoplasty, we’re your trusted providers. Dr. Gallagher, along with her experienced team, is here to make your face procedure a success. Though individual results vary greatly, we’re known across Long Island, NY for quality care and compassion. Contact us today to set up your first consultation.