Mid Facelift

Mid facelift is a plastic surgery procedure that restores a smooth, youthful look to the lower eyelids and cheeks. During a mid face lift, small, deep incisions are made in the muscle tissue of the face. If the surgeon so chooses, an endoscope (a small, camera-like device) is inserted through the incisions to view the procedure internally. Once the incisions are made, the doctor adjusts the fat and muscle tissue, pulling up the middle of the face to smooth and tighten the skin. Finally, the incisions are sutured. Duration of the operation: The midfacelift usually takes about 3 hours. Post operative care: Although discomfort should be minimal immediately following face lift surgery, patients will not be in a condition to drive home. Their head will be bandaged and they may still be experiencing the effects of anesthesia. They should therefore arrange for transportation to and from the treatment center with a friend or family member. During the week following face lift surgery, they should also plan on maintaining a relatively light schedule. Often, having someone to help with everyday activities such as cooking and cleaning can make the recovery period much easier. Recovery period: Most patients can return to work from a mid face lift in 10 days to two weeks. For the first few days or weeks, depending on your procedure, only walking and mild stretching are appropriate physical activities. Vigorous exercise, heavy housework, and sexual activity should be avoided for at least the initial two weeks after surgery. Alcohol, saunas, and steam rooms should be avoided for several months. During the face lift recovery period, extra rest is very important to promote proper healing. Possible risks and complications: Aside from the risks inherent in any surgical procedure, risks specific to face lift surgery include: Injury to the nerves that control facial muscles - this is usually temporary. Problems with healing of the skin - this is common for patients who smoke. Scarring - there will be some scarring, although the surgeon will always try to hide the face lift scars. Crust on the incisions - this will be temporary. Numbness or tingling around the incision areas - this should be temporary. Skin or hair loss - this is rare. Skin discoloration - this is a rare condition that can continue for several months. Some of the most common postoperative face lift complications are: Reaction to the anesthesia – some face lift patients experience nausea and general sickness after receiving anesthesia; this is a short-lasting side effect and usually diminishes completely after a few hours. Hematoma – if bleeding occurs under the skin, a hematoma can develop, leaving the area painfully swollen; an operation is required to stop the flow and remove the blood. Bleeding – although some light, postoperative bleeding is normal, uncontrolled bleeding is dangerous and can lead to painful hematomas. Infection – typically occurring in a specific area, symptoms of infection are swelling, sensitivity, redness, and localized heat. Unless it is severe, an infection can be relieved with antibiotics. Anesthesia use: Mid face lift surgery procedures can be performed using local anesthesia although general anesthesia is also an option. During more intensive procedures, general anesthesia may be required. Hospital admission: This procedure may be performed in the cosmetic surgeon’s office-based facility, an outpatient surgery center, or at a hospital. This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis Preparation before Surgery Assessment of the medical history (any allergies, serious medical condition and all medications taken both prescribed and non-prescribed), physical examination, and laboratory tests will be performed during consultation. Blood and urine samples will be collected for routine preoperative laboratory tests. Smoking must be avoided for about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, as nicotine interferes with circulation and will greatly affect healing process. You will likely to be asked to stop drinking alcohol, a week before the surgery and throughout your recovery period. Avoid taking any medications such as hormones, anticoagulants, anabolic steroids and supplements at least 4-6 weeks to prevent complicating medical factors prior to surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding. Hair should be washed thoroughly the day before face lift surgery to minimize the risk of infection. Additionally, alcohol should be avoided the night prior to the procedure. Patients should also make sure to get a good night’s sleep, since it is important to be well rested during face lift surgery. Some cosmetic surgeons may give patients additional instructions.