Facelift surgery (also known as meloplasty or rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce the visible signs of ageing in the face and neck. It focuses on tightening the skin, lifting the soft tissue in your face and neck.
As we age, the effects of everyday life, including gravity, sun exposure and stress, begin to show on our faces. Whilst everyone is different, most people will show a combination of lines, creases, wrinkles and a general loss of volume from across the face and neck.
A surgical facelift is designed to tighten and lift facial tissue. This surgery corrects the loss of volume, improves then contour and can reduce visible wrinkles.
If you have been considering facelift surgery in Perth, the best thing to do is to make an appointment with Dr Gillett. From his assessment, he will be able to give you specific advice about your case including the expected results.
You are more likely to benefit from a facelift if:
Skin elasticity and bone structure play a part in your suitability for the surgery.
Your initial consultation is the perfect time to discuss your concerns, questions and expectations with Dr Gillett. During the assessment, he will share with you all the necessary information about the procedure including risks and post-operative care. He will review your medical history and examine your entire face making a note of your concerns and provide you with personalised advice.
A second consultation is required where you will be able to ask him further questions. Dr Gillett will also discuss the procedure further with you as what to expect and all the associated risks and expectations. We can then schedule your surgery. The surgery requires a general anaesthetic, and an overnight stay in the hospital so keep this in mind when discussing your options.
The facelift procedure itself will usually take between three to four hours. However, if you choose to combine other procedures, this can take longer.
Dr Gillett will make an incision at the side of your face within or just in front of the hairline and around your ear. The surgery is performed in a deep plane (Extended Deep Plane Face and Necklift) to lift the muscles, fat and all soft tissue. When required fat is transferred to areas of hollowing. Once Dr Gillett is happy with the shape of the face he will close the incisions. You will have a bandage and garment for a couple of days after the surgery. The garment can be worn for the first two weeks if you find it more comfortable. A small drain remains in position overnight.
Before your surgery, it’s important that you prepare for your recovery. This will mean making arrangements for a family member or friend to stay with you for at least the first 24 – 48 hours when you get home. Think extra pillows, stocking up your fridge and cupboards with extra food, ice packs and an up-to-date Netflix subscription!
It’s also a good idea to prepare your body for surgery. This may mean making healthier choices like changing your diet or exercising more often. When our bodies are at their healthiest, they can recover quickly with a lower risk of repercussions. You should not smoke before surgery.
Dr Gillett will provide detailed instructions on what to do before surgery. During this time ask as many questions as you like, it’s crucial that you feel reassured and safe going into any surgery.
Another important factor to consider before surgery is your medications. You will need to let Dr Gillett know about any medications or supplements you may be taking as these may affect your anaesthesia and recovery. In some cases, you will be asked to stop taking certain medicines around the time of your surgery.
Cleaning the face
Once the drains have been removed, one to two days after the operation, you can gently wash the face with clean water and shampoo the hair gently with baby shampoo.
Sleeping
To help with swelling, we recommend you sleep with your head elevated. Raise the head of the bed or sleep on three pillows.
Support Garment
A facial support garment will be given to you while in hospital. We recommend you wear this continuously for the first two weeks. You must remove it for showering.
Pain Management
Your anaesthetist will discuss pain management with you and provide you with a prescription for any medications that you will need.
Appointments
First Post Operative Appointment
We will see you in the rooms 4 – 7 days post op. At this stage, we will check your progress, remove some sutures and answer any concerns you may have.
Second Post Operative Appointment
Your next postoperative visit will then be scheduled for removal of remaining sutures or staples in the hair. Expect bruising, swelling and numbness of the face. The amount of pain and numbness will vary from patient to patient. This will settle, in most cases, over the next six weeks although some numbness in front of/or on the ear can persist for more extended periods.
When can I resume activities?
Rest is critical after your operation. We recommend no strenuous exercise for six weeks. You will need to take approximately 2-3 weeks off work. Regular pain relief is recommended if you require it.
Psychological factors
Frequently after cosmetic surgery patients will feel somewhat depressed for 2-3 days after the operation. This may be because at this point your swelling is generally at its maximum level and you will be feeling a degree of pain/discomfort. Most people find that once the pain and swelling start to settle and they can see the improvement in appearance, the general mood improves. Significant events (holidays, weddings etc.) should be scheduled for at least 6 – 12 weeks after your operation.
Report the following postoperative concerns:
If you have any of these postoperative concerns or queries, please ring our consulting rooms on (08) 9284 4966.
Risk of Facelift surgery:
You will have a chance to discuss your Face Lift surgery during your consultation with Dr. Gillett. The Ethicos Institute team is committed to transparent service tailored to your personal requirements. We treat each case as unique.
To find out more information about our treatments or to book in for a consultation with Dr Gillett call 08 9284 4966 or contact us by clicking here
