A Step-By-Step Guide To What Happens During A Facelift?

Cosmetic Surgery Procedure: Facelift

Have you been researching a face lift procedure to help restore a more youthful and rested look to your appearance, but you are curious to know what exactly this type of surgery involves? The answer can vary somewhat depending on who you talk to and which surgeon you choose. The key to getting the most from your Toronto facelift is selecting a facial and reconstructive surgeon who is board certified and specializes in the field of facial cosmetic surgeries. A cosmetic surgeon who focuses their practice solely in the area of your concern will likely have the expertise to hear your concerns and offer you what you want from a facelift procedure.

Cosmetic facial surgery can be a dramatic and transformative experience, boosting your self esteem and erasing many years off your face.

What Can You Expect From Your Toronto Face Lift Consultation?

Your consultation with your plastic surgeon will help you to understand what is involved, and whether this is the right procedure for you. When you meet with Dr. Philip Solomon to discuss what a facelift procedure can do for you, you will likely have two or more appointments before your surgery day. Your first appointment will allow you the opportunity to share what you find dissatisfying about your face and what your questions and concerns are. Dr. Solomon will assess your skin and features, then outline surgical options for you.

Computer imaging software can help you to visualize the possibilities, and Dr. Solomon will provide a personalized, comprehensive surgical quote to explain the facelift cost.

Be sure to share information about medications or supplements you are taking to ensure they will not interfere with healing or the surgery itself. Talk to your surgeon about avoiding alcohol before and directly after surgery, and smoking should be avoided as well because it negatively affects your ability to heal, leading to less than optimal results. Plan to have some help around the house for your first week post face-lift and at least two weeks off of work.

During The Surgery

The day of your surgery, a general anaesthetic will be given so that you are completely asleep throughout the procedure. Your surgeon will perform a number of complex steps to excise excess skin, reset and strengthen underlying muscles and target various areas to tighten such as under eyes, jowls, cheeks and neck.

Your tissue will be closed in layers with internal, dissolvable sutures and gently closed externally as well as covered with steri strips to protect the incisions. Well placed in natural creases and behind the hairline, your scars can be expected to heal naturally and be hidden discretely. Following post op care instructions carefully will help ensure that your incisions heal well within roughly 2 weeks.

When you wake, your facial tissue will feel numb and you’ll likely have a facial garment and some bandages in place. Your dressings will need to stay in place for a week and Dr. Solomon will let you know when you need to come back for the first follow up check up. You will be given instructions regarding how to wash and any medications that you need to take.

Dr. Solomon will provide you with a timeline to plan your expectations for recovery and to keep track of your progress. Most people see the majority of swelling or bruising resolve by the two-week mark and will rapidly improve to enjoy their new, younger, fresher look continually after that.

What Is Your Next Step After The First Consultation?

When you have chosen a date, a pre-operative appointment provides the opportunity for further, detailed questions about your surgical plan and specific, timely instructions such as what to do and what to avoid, both before and after your face lift. You will complete simple bloodwork and any testing necessary based on your health history.