The Side Effects of Facelift: What Patients Should Know By Peter Brownrigg on November 11, 2016

A woman holding her faceOur plastic surgery center has helped countless patients look years younger and more rejuvenated thanks to the facelift, a popular option for wrinkle reduction and anti-aging. In order to ensure optimal results, we provide patients with detailed pre-op and post-op instructions, which help with the prevention of complications and management of side effects.

We'd like to take a few moments right now to focus on the side effects of facelift surgery. This will offer prospective patients with realistic expectations of what to expect.

Something to Keep in Mind: Side Effects Are Normal

After any surgery, people are bound to experience side effects. Side effects are a normal part fo the recovery process in that they are the body's natural response to a surgical procedure.

Side effects are distinct from complications, which are negative health issues that occur following surgery. Complications need to be addressed as soon as possible. Side effects that do not improve are also important to have addresses by your surgeon.

Pain and Discomfort

After any kind of surgery, pain and discomfort are both common experiences. The soreness tends to be most noticeable in the first days after a surgery has been performed. Recommended pain relievers can be taken in order to minimize the pain an discomfort that is experienced. Generally the pain get better on a day-to-day basis, and subside by the end of a week or so.

Bruising Around the Incision Sites

Bruising is also common after any surgery. It's the result of small blood vessels being damaged when incisions are made or tissues are adjusted. This leads to discoloration along the incisions and around the face. Bruising tends to last about two week, with residual discoloration where the bruising was lasting for up to a month.

Swelling of the Face

Swelling is also common after a facelift has been performed, and is typically associated with bruising after surgery. The swelling tends to be most pronounced in the first two weeks or so after surgery. Major swelling tends to abate after two to three weeks, with some residual swelling lasting for about a month. Minor swelling after a facelift may persist for several weeks after the surgery.

Tingling and Numbness Around the Incision Sites

Nerves are often affected after a surgery has been performed, and as a result it is not uncommon for people to experience numbness, tingling, and sensitivity around the incision sites of the face. This is generally around the ears and lower portion of the hairline. The tingling and numbness tends to be the most noticeable in the first several weeks after surgery, becoming less of an issues as the healing process continues.

A Word on Post-Surgical Scarring

Scarring is a reality in any surgical procedure, though thankfully scarring is less of a problem when it comes to facelift. The incisions are well-hidden around the ear and hairline, making it difficult for people to notice where they are. That said, scars will be present, and they will fade over the course of the next few months.

Patients who have genetic issues with scarring (i.e., incisions result in upraised or unsightly scars) can discuss alternatives to facelift or additional options for the procedure during the consultation process.

Learn More About Facelift Surgery

For more information about facelift surgery and how it can help you look years younger and far more refreshed, be sure to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery centre today. The team at our practice looks forward to your visit and helping you look your absolute best.

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Dr. Brownrigg

Dr. Peter Brownrigg

Dr. Brownrigg has focused on facial plastic surgery since 1984. He is affiliated with a range of prestigious organizations, including:

  • American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
  • Canadian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
  • Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
  • Board Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery
  • Has acted as the Canadian Region Vice President of the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
  • Has acted as the treasurer and president of the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery
  • American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
  • Canadian Society of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
  • Ontario Medical Association

For more information about the services we offer, contact our office online or call (613) 724-1214 today.

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Dr. Brownrigg has been focusing exclusively on facial plastic surgery since 1984!

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