Facelift

A facelift can dramatically improve facial wrinkles or sagging facial and neck tissue. It can also offer more subtle corrections to the effects of time. Due to the various types of facelifts available, Dr. Kendall will discuss your expectations and desires in depth before recommending any specific technique. Facelifts can be combined with other facial procedures where appropriate.

Anesthesia: Local for most patients

What is the recovery like?

A facelift is usually performed on an outpatient basis, and you will most likely spend a few hours at the surgery facility after the procedure for monitoring. You will receive pain medication to minimize post-operative discomfort. Your face will be bandaged, and small drainage tubes may be used to prevent the accumulation of fluids.

You should arrange to have a trusted friend or loved one available to bring you home. You should be up and about in a day or two. Dressings should be removed a few days after the procedure. During this first follow-up appointment, Dr. Kendall will tell you when you may begin to wash your face in the shower again, which is typically several days after surgery. This varies from patient to patient.

Depending on your occupation, you may be allowed to return to work within a few days, though patients with physically demanding jobs may be told to stay home longer. Generally speaking, vigorous activity should be avoided for two to three weeks. Sexual activity should be avoided for at least one week. Even though you had surgery on your face, physical activity can strain your facial muscles and raise your blood pressure, both of which can compromise your recovery.

There will be a small amount of swelling and discoloration initially, but this should not last long. Initial discomfort can be addressed with the recommended pain medications, but extreme pain should be reported to Dr. Kendall’s office immediately.

Be sure to follow the instructions you receive before your procedure closely in order to avoid harming yourself and achieve the best possible result.

Your facelift outcome will take a few weeks or months to become final. Do not be discouraged if your early results are not what you had hoped for. The results should last for years to come, though everyone’s face will be affected by gravity, sun exposure and age over time.

Please consult our FAQ for general information on cosmetic and plastic surgery.