Cosmetic Surgery Face Lift Facts

A cosmetic surgery face lift is performed to repair sagging, wrinkled and drooping skin around the face, neck and jowls. A person typically has a face lift performed to create the appearance of a younger skin. There are risks that go along with the procedure, however, and an individual should be aware of any potential problems before deciding to have a cosmetic surgery face lift performed.

A face lift is sometimes performed at the same time as other cosmetic surgery procedures. A forehead or eyelid lift, or nose reshaping may be performed with a face lift, if the patient so desires. The patient is put under general anesthesia before the surgery is performed. In the case of simple procedures, local anesthesia may be used, but this is usually not the case.

How is a Cosmetic Surgery Face Lift Performed?

During a cosmetic surgery face lift, a plastic surgeon makes small surgical cuts at the hairline just above the temple and continues behind the ear and to the lower scalp. This is most often done in one single cut one each side. The surgeon then lifts the skin and removes some of the fat tissue, removes any excess skin, tightens the skin and muscles, performs liposuction if necessary, and then closes the cut with stitches. The procedure can be performed in as little as an hour, depending on the surgeon and the technique used.

Choosing a Cosmetic Surgery Face Lift

Ideal candidates for a cosmetic surgery face lift have sagging or wrinkled skin, neck folds, creases and a loose jaw line. Most people who choose this type of cosmetic surgery are attempting to repair the various physical manifestations of age. By lifting and tightening the skin, these signs can be removed, but there are various risks associated with the surgery.

Cosmetic Face Lift Surgery Risks

A face lift may be beneficial for individuals who wish to improve the youthfulness of their skin, but consider the following risks before making a decision.

• Blood under the skin that requires draining


• Nerve damage affecting the facial nerves, although this is usually only temporary


• Pain and lingering numbness


• Scars or skin discoloration

More common risks of cosmetic face lift surgery include bleeding and infection following the procedure and the typical complications from anesthesia. In most cases, patients are happy with the results of the surgery, suffer only minimal side effects and recover without incident. However, an individual should always familiarize themselves with the risks, possible complications and recovery process before making a final decision.