Every year I examine hundreds of men and women for facial cosmetic surgery, most commonly for facial rejuvenation surgeries. During our interview, I evaluate my patient’s condition in detail and choose the procedures that best meet their needs to develop an individualized treatment plan. During the interview, my patients express their needs, ask their questions and receive scientific, up-to-date and detailed answers to these questions.  While each patient has unique questions and concerns, I frequently encounter some common questions that most patients ask. Here are some of them:

1. Are the results of facelift surgery permanent?

Yes, they are. The results of most facelifts last for a very long time, from 7 to 15 years. The duration of the effect may vary depending on the patient’s skin structure and skeletal structure, the technique used, and the surgeon applying the technique. Once a facelift is done, it cannot be reversed. It is permanent in that its effect is irreversible.  However, although the procedure will provide significant improvement in visible signs of facial aging, nothing can completely stop the aging process and you will continue to age in the years after the surgery. Imagine you have an identical twin with an identical face. The twin who undergoes facial rejuvenation surgery will look better than the non-operated twin 3 months, 3 years and 10 years after the surgery. However, both twins will continue to age over the years.

2. Will there be a scar?

The standard incision for facelift surgery starts from the scalp, follows the natural skin fold just in front of the ear, then turns behind the ear and disappears into the scalp. Although the incision will leave a scar, a significant part of the incision will be hidden in your scalp, and the part that is not hidden there will be camouflaged in a natural fold. In the first 3 to 4 weeks of healing, the scars will be red and prominent. They can then be hidden with make-up and hairstyle. After healing is complete, finding the scar is often quite difficult, even for someone who knows exactly where to look.

3. What about the risks?

The risks from facelift surgery are extremely rare when performed by a well-trained and experienced plastic surgeon. Loss of sensation in certain parts of the face, temporary muscle weakness, prolonged bruises or adverse reactions to the anesthetic used are some of the postoperative side effects. During the preoperative interview, you will also be informed about rare and more serious complications.

4. What results should I expect?

You should expect realistic and natural results. As with every plastic surgery, the results of facelift surgery vary from one person to the other. The best candidates are those whose skin has just started to sag with aging but still has good elasticity. A good bone structure also helps to have positive results. After a well-handled facial rejuvenation surgery, you will look naturally refreshed and rested rather than overly “done.” A facelift does not intend to make you look like a teenager, but to remove the signs of aging on your face in order to give you a more vigorous and energetic look.

5. How about the healing process?

Although facelift is a complex and delicate procedure, most patients report only minor discomfort during recovery. First of all, facelift surgery is not a painful procedure. Although it may take a little longer in some individuals for swelling and bruises to disappear, most people can return to work with a concealer make-up in about two weeks. Most facial rejuvenation surgeons advise their patients to avoid strenuous activities for the first two weeks. To minimize scar formation, patients should limit sun exposure during recovery and protect their entire face with sunscreen whenever they are outdoors.