Facelift Techniques and Complementary Treatments

Facelift Techniques

1. Deep Plane Facelift

The deep plane facelift is an advanced technique that addresses the underlying structures of the face, including the muscles and connective tissue. This method allows for more significant lifting and repositioning of facial tissues compared to traditional facelifts.

• Incision Placement: Similar to a traditional facelift, incisions are made along the hairline and around the ears, but they may extend deeper into the subcutaneous tissue to access the deep plane.
• Muscle Repositioning: The deeper layers of facial muscles are lifted and tightened back to achieve a natural-looking and long-lasting result.
• Enhanced Mid-Facial Rejuvenation: The deep plane facelift is particularly effective in restoring volume to the mid-face and cheek area, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

2. Mid-Facelift

The mid-facelift targets the central region of the face, including the cheeks and nasolabial folds. This technique is suitable for patients experiencing a loss of volume in the mid-face area, resulting in a tired or sunken appearance. By repositioning the underlying tissues and restoring volume, the mid-facelift can produce a more youthful and refreshed look. It is often performed in conjunction with other facial procedures to achieve comprehensive results.

3. Neck Lift (Cervicoplasty and Platysmaplasty)

As part of the natural aging process, the neck can develop loose skin and muscle bands, creating the appearance of a "turkey neck." A neck lift, which includes cervicoplasty and platysmaplasty, aims to address these concerns. Cervicoplasty involves removing excess skin, while platysmaplasty tightens the neck muscles to redefine the neck's contour. This procedure effectively enhances the jawline and neck area, providing patients with a more refined and youthful profile. The incision is under the chin.

4. Temporal Brow Lift

Temporal brow lift is sometimes combined with a deep plane facelift/neck lift to prevent bunching of the skin around the eyes.

5. Fat Grafting (Fat Transfer)

Fat grafting involves harvesting fat from one area of the body and injecting it into areas with volume loss or hollowness on the face. It is a natural and long-lasting way to restore volume and improve facial contours.

6. Chin Implant

Chin implant is sometimes performed with a deep plane facelift/neck lift to augment the chin if it is recessed (small or set back).

7. Additional Non-Surgical Treatments

As part of your facial rejuvenation journey, there are various additional non-surgical treatments and procedures that can complement and enhance the results of a facelift. These treatments can target specific concerns and provide a more comprehensive and harmonious overall appearance. Here are some additional treatments you may consider:

1. Fillers: Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that can add volume to areas with volume loss, such as the cheeks, under-eye hollows, and nasolabial folds. They can also be used to enhance lip volume and definition. Dermal fillers can be an excellent option for addressing fine lines and wrinkles or improving facial contours. Our preference is fat grafting except around the mouth area where filler can be more reliable.
2. Injections: injections can temporarily relax the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as crow's feet, forehead lines, and frown lines. These injectables are particularly effective for treating wrinkles caused by facial expressions.
3. Laser Skin Resurfacing: Laser skin resurfacing can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and address pigmentation irregularities. It involves using laser technology to remove the outer layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and revealing smoother, more youthful skin.
4. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are a non-invasive treatment that uses a chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin. They can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and address pigmentation concerns.
5. Skin Tightening Treatments: Various non-surgical skin tightening treatments, such as radiofrequency or ultrasound, can stimulate collagen production and improve skin laxity. These treatments are effective for mild to moderate skin sagging and can complement the results of a facelift.

Tailored Solutions

At the Swan Clinic, we offer a range of facelift techniques tailored to each patient's unique needs and goals. We aim to provide natural-looking and long-lasting results. If you are considering a facelift, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss the most suitable option for you.

What to Expect After Surgery

Drains

Drains are thin, flexible tubes placed during surgery to help remove excess fluid and blood from the surgical site. They facilitate the healing process and reduce the risk of complications such as hematomas (accumulation of blood) or seromas (accumulation of clear fluid) under the skin. The drains are usually removed the next day after surgery.

Bandages

Bandages are an essential component of post-operative care in facelift surgery. They serve multiple purposes, including protecting the incision sites, reducing swelling, and providing support to the newly repositioned tissues. The bandages are usually removed the next day with drain removal.

Compression Garments

In some cases, patients may be required to wear a compression garment around the head and neck following the surgery. These garments provide gentle pressure, which can aid in reducing swelling and promoting optimal healing. These are usually worn for 2 weeks full time and 2 weeks part time.

Post-Operative Care Following Facelift/Neck lift Surgery

The success of facelift surgery greatly depends on proper post-operative care. It is essential for patients to follow their surgeon's instructions diligently to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible results. Here are some general guidelines for post-operative care following facelift surgery:

1. Rest and Recovery

Rest is crucial during the initial days after facelift surgery. Plan to have someone stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours to assist with your needs. Avoid any strenuous activities, bending over, or lifting heavy objects during the first few weeks of recovery.

2. Managing Discomfort

It is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after facelift surgery. Dr Hadi may prescribe pain medication to help manage pain. Applying cold compresses can also help reduce swelling and discomfort during the first few days.

3. Incision Care

Keep the incision areas clean and dry. Follow Dr Hadi's instructions on how to care for the incisions, including any dressing changes. Be gentle when washing your face and avoid scrubbing the incisions.

4. Drains and Bandages

If drains were placed during surgery, follow Dr Hadi's guidelines on how to care for and monitor them. Keep the bandages clean and dry as instructed, and ensure that they remain in place until Dr Hadi advises their removal.

5. Sleeping Position

During the initial recovery period, sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling. It is advisable to sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on the healing facial tissues.

6. Medication Management

Take all prescribed medications as directed by Dr Hadi. This may include pain medication, antibiotics, and any other medications needed for your specific situation.

7. Avoiding Tobacco and Alcohol

Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption during the healing process, as they can impair the body's ability to heal and increase the risk of complications.

8. Sun Protection

Protect your skin from direct sunlight for several weeks after surgery. Sun exposure can lead to increased swelling and potential complications. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and use sunscreen with high SPF when going outside.

9. Follow-up Appointments

Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. These appointments are essential for Dr Hadi to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns.

10. Gradual Resumption of Activities

Follow Dr Hadi's advice on when you can resume normal activities, including work and exercise. Avoid vigorous physical activities and contact sports for several weeks.

11. Nutrition and Hydration

Maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support your body's healing process. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

12. Be Patient

Keep in mind that facelift results take time to fully manifest. Swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and you will see the final results over the course of several weeks to months.

Conclusion

Post-operative care is a crucial aspect of facelift surgery to ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications. Following Dr Hadi's instructions diligently will help promote proper healing and achieve the desired rejuvenation of your facial appearance.

Minimising Scars After Facelift Surgery

Minimising scars after facelift surgery requires proper wound care, adherence to post-operative instructions, and lifestyle choices that support the healing process. While scars are an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, following these tips can help promote optimal scar healing and reduce their visibility:

1. Follow Dr Hadi's Instructions

Your plastic surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions. It is essential to follow these guidelines meticulously to ensure proper wound healing and minimize the risk of complications.

2. Keep Incisions Clean and Dry

Keeping the incision areas clean and dry is crucial for preventing infections and promoting healing. Follow your surgeon's advice on how to care for the incisions and any dressings applied.

3. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair the body's ability to heal and may lead to more prominent scars. It is advisable to refrain from smoking and limit alcohol intake during the recovery period.

4. Protect from Sun Exposure

Sun exposure can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Always wear sunscreen with a high SPF when going outside and protect your face from direct sunlight using a wide-brimmed hat.

5. Scar Massage

Once Dr Hadi approves, gentle scar massage can help promote blood flow to the area and soften the scar tissue. Use a mild, hypoallergenic lotion or silicone gel recommended by Dr Hadi.

6. Avoid Tension on Incisions

Avoid activities that may put tension on the healing incisions, such as excessive facial expressions or pulling on the skin. Be gentle with your face during the recovery period.

7. Consider Scar Treatment Options

Some scar treatment options, such as silicone sheets or gels, may help reduce scar visibility. Discuss with Dr Hadi if these options are suitable for your situation.

8. Proper Nutrition and Hydration

A healthy diet and adequate hydration are essential for promoting overall healing and supporting the skin's regenerative processes.

9. Be Patient

Scars take time to mature and fade. It is normal for scars to appear more prominent initially but gradually improve over several months.

10. Scar Camouflage Makeup

Once Dr Hadi allows makeup application, you can use specialized scar camouflage makeup to help conceal the scars temporarily.

11. Laser Treatments or Topical Treatments

In some cases, Dr Hadi may recommend laser treatments or specific topical treatments to further improve the appearance of scars. These options should only be considered after discussing with Dr Hadi.

Remember that each individual's healing process is unique, and scar appearance can vary from person to person. While it is not always possible to completely eliminate scars, following these guidelines can significantly improve their appearance and promote a more favorable outcome after facelift surgery.