Facelift

Description:
Sagging or wrinkled skin occurs naturally with increasing age. Folds and fat deposits appear around the neck, and deep flexion creases form between the nose and mouth. The jawline grows

Indications:
Dissatisfaction with facial signs of aging and otherwise good health.

What to Expect After:
Most patients are pleased with the results.

A small, thin drainage tube may be temporarily placed under the skin behind the ear to drain any blood that might collect there. The head is wrapped loosely in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling . Usually there is not much discomfort after surgery and pain medication can relieve it. Some numbness of the skin is normal and will disappear in a few weeks or months.

The head will be elevated on two pillows (or at a 30 degree angle) for a couple of days after surgery to keep the swelling down. The drainage tube will be removed 1 to 2 days after surgery if one was inserted. Bandages are usually removed after 1 to 5 days. The face will look pale , bruised, and puffy, but in 4 to 6 weeks it will be looking normal.

Most of the stitches will be removed in 5 days. The stitches or metal clips in the hairline could be left in a few days longer if the scalp takes longer to heal.

Convalescence:
The patient should expect swelling , bruising , skin discoloration, tenderness, and numbness for 10 to 14 days. Most of the surgical scars are hidden in the hairline or the natural lines of the face and will fade over months. Sun exposure should be limited.

Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are:

Risks for any surgery are:

Additional risks include:

  • a pocket of blood under the skin (hematoma) that may require drainage
  • injury to nerves that control facial muscles (usually temporary)



Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.

Surgery charges can be separated into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charges, which includes nursing care and the operating room, 4) the medications, and 5) additional charges.

1. Surgeon's fee: variable
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or Xray exams), medical supplies, or equipment use.

Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.

Picture:
P0204.pctFace anatomy


This is an illustration of the different landmarks of the face. These landmarks may be referred to when answering questions in the Symptom Analysis section.