A facelift is a common type of cosmetic surgery performed to correct signs of aging in the face and neck. What can a facelift improve and the risks of undergoing this medical procedure? Find out before you try it.

What is a Facelift?

A facelift or rhytidectomy is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed to create a more youthful appearance. This procedure involves pulling up some of the sides of the face. The tissues under the skin will also be tightened and excess skin will be removed. As a result, the face looks younger.

As we age, the skin becomes loose and there are many frown lines on the face. The face loses its elasticity as fat in certain areas decreases and accumulates in other parts of the face.

To combat these age-related changes, a facelift is offered specifically to improve the following:

• The sagging appearance of the cheeks
• Excess skin on the lower jaw
• Folds of skin from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth
• Sagging skin and excess fat on the neck

Know the Risks of Facelift

Facelift procedures are no longer a rarity. With the help of technological advancements, this procedure is increasingly recognized and trusted in improving facial appearance. If you are interested in trying it out, you should know first what risks may occur when undergoing this rhytidectomy.

Hematoma

Hematoma is the formation of a pool of blood under certain areas of the skin, resulting in bruising. This is one of the most common risk complications of a facelift. A hematoma resembles a large, painful bruise that may form within 24 hours of the surgery.

When this happens, you will need additional treatment to remove the blood buildup. You may also need other procedures to repair your face.

Scarring

The incision scars from a facelift procedure can create permanent scarring. These scars may be hidden in the hairline or natural contours of the face, but sometimes they can be raised and visible.

Age and an unhealthy lifestyle affect the risk of scarring. To minimize the risk of scarring, it is recommended that you quit smoking, drink enough water, nourish your body, manage your weight, and manage chronic diseases well.

If the appearance of scarring makes you feel self-conscious, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to fade the scars.

Nerve injury

Nerve injury after a facelift procedure may be rare, but when it does occur, the nerves that control sensation or muscles are affected. The effects can be permanent or temporary where you may not be able to move your facial muscles for several months or lose sensation in your face.

Hair loss

Temporary or permanent hair loss may occur near the incision site. If hair loss is persistent or permanent, you may need to undergo hair follicle transplant surgery.

The success of a facelift depends on a healthy lifestyle and a discussion with your doctor regarding any medical history you may have. You can also consult about the possible risks and options to overcome them.

You also need to be prepared because post-surgery you may experience mild to moderate pain, bleeding at the incision site, swelling, bruising, and numbness.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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