Signs of the natural ageing process is most visible in the face. The annual loss of youthful contours in the face and neck can be due to numerous factors such as a lack of elasticity, loss of facial volume and changes in skin quality. The facial skin begins to droop when both the muscles and supporting structures beneath the skin, begin to relax. When non-surgical procedures, such as Botox and filler injections or threads are no longer effective and do not produce the desired results, a face lift offers the patient an opportunity to look younger, natural and refreshed. By tightening the skin and its supporting structures especially in the mid-face and neck region, this procedure brings about a marked improvement in appearance.

METHOD

In our clinic, tightening of a patient’s facial features is achieved by open facelift surgery. This involves making an incision in front of and behind the ear, depending on whether or not the neck is included in the lifting procedure. An additional small incision below the chin may be required depending on the patient's facial contour. Generally in most cases a two-layer facelift approach is used. This involves tightening the special layer of connective tissue in the area of the cheeks and surrounding skin. This procedure is complex and time-consuming but offers a more sustainable outcome. The one-layer facelift is limited to skin tightening and produces a less stable result.

At Praxisklinik Urania all lifting procedures to the mid-face and neck are combined with injections of tumescent fluid into the tissue to reduce post-operative bruising and pain. If necessary liposuction to the neck or enhancement of the chin with hyaluronic acid or silicon-implants are performed the same time.

BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROCEDURE

Apart from general health requirements, it is a prerequisite for the operation that the patient does not smoke. The patient should stop smoking four weeks prior to surgery. The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia. However for specific medical reasons, surgery can be performed under sedation, regardless of the technique used. Typically, the procedure requires an in-patient stay of one to two days; however, in some cases, the surgery can be performed as an out-patient procedure. Eight to ten days after the operation, the sutures will be removed and after two weeks, the patient can resume their social life. Over the subsequent four to six weeks, caution should be exercised with sporting activities, especially swimming.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

A face lift is one of the most major operations in plastic surgery. Prior to the planned procedure, all potential risks and complications are discussed in great detail with the patient.