How is the procedure performed?
The facelift can be combined with other corrections, including blepharoplasty, injections of botulinum toxin or hyaluronic acid or liposuction. Before the procedure, a discussion with the doctor is necessary to identify potential contraindications, to review the various surgical techniques used and the expected result. A facelift can treat the entire face, or only certain areas.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes excess skin and fat. He also restores the muscles and skin to their original anatomical position for a natural and rejuvenating effect.
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic and lasts about 3 hours. It requires an overnight stay in hospital. The operation is performed by an aesthetic doctor based in the Lausanne clinic, one of the few facelift specialists in French-speaking Switzerland.
When will the results be visible?
It takes about 1 month after a facelift to have a definitive result as it takes time for the tissues to soften. The areas treated by this cosmetic surgery appear firmer, the cheeks and cheekbones are enhanced, the facial contours are sharper, dark circles, imperfections and deep wrinkles are less visible. The lower eyelids no longer appear sagging and distended. The face appears rejuvenated, remodeled, the features are redesigned, and you regain your radiance and healthy glow.
Edema has practically disappeared after 2 weeks.
What are the after-effects?
A lightly compressive bandage is applied immediately after the operation. A slight feeling of tension may remain for the first few days. Showering is possible the day after the operation. Hair can be washed from the 3rd day. The threads are removed after 7 to 10 days. It is preferable to allow for 2 weeks of social eviction.
After a facelift, it is not recommended to practice intensive sports activities, nor should alcohol or tobacco be consumed, since they interfere with the healing process.
What are the possible complications?
No surgery is without risk. The usual complications after any classic surgery can occur, but remain very rare: hemorrhage, hematoma, healing problems, infection, especially if measures are taken in this direction. For example, stopping smoking before and after the operation, and stopping certain medications (anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin) reduce the risk of hematoma. The preoperative assessment of this cosmetic surgery performed by the practitioner and the highlighting of the patient’s medical history can significantly reduce the occurrence of complications.
The most feared complication is temporary or permanent facial paresthesia in case of a sensory nerve damage during the facelift procedure. Fortunately, this complication is not very frequent.
