Facelift is a bit of a misnomer. The lift is primarily the lower half of the face and especially the neck. It is designed to relieve the jowl areas, and elevate the loose skin of the neck. It can be a very gratifying operation.

There are scars incurred with the procedure. These scars are above the ear in the hair, extending in front of the ear and then behind the ear and into the hairline going down the neck.

The operation takes about three hours, and is done as an outpatient surgery. It is often combined with other procedures such as a browlift, eyelid surgery, or even breast surgery. It is usually done with general anesthesia.

Afterwards, there is always some swelling, and often some bruising. These may take 2 -3 weeks to resolve. Potential complications are fortunately rare, but infections, wound healing problems, and bad scars are possible. These risks are much increased in smokers. There is a very small chance of injury to nerves of the face, which can be very disfiguring. Fortunately, this complication is exceedingly rare and when it does occur, it is often temporary.

Time off work depends a lot on how the patient feels about appearing swollen and perhaps bruised during recovery. Actual recovery in terms of pain usually takes about a week, but bruises may persist for up to three weeks.

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Facial Aesthetic Surgery Links:
American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Facelift
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

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Facial Aesthetic Surgery Procedures:
   Facelift
   Eyelid Surgery
   Browlift
   Rhinoplasty
   Otoplasty / Ear Surgery