Getting a facelift is something that many of us have thought about for years. Though the procedure is one of the most common performed by surgeons, it’s nonetheless important that anyone considering a facelift takes time in gathering the right information before moving forward. Information gathering, careful research, and thoughtful reflection will help ensure you get the best results.
We believe it’s important that every person considering a facelift start the process with these four simple—but necessary—steps that can help lead you to get the results you want:
- Find a board-certified plastic surgeon. Before you decide what type of procedure you’re going to get, locate a doctor who specializes in facelifts, and who has performed a large number of facelifts. Find an experienced plastic surgeon and schedule a consultation in order to ask questions. Make a list of questions about his or her practice philosophy—no question is a foolish question when it comes to your face or body. In addition, the process of gathering information about your doctor, including references, and getting a feel for his or her chair-side manner can help reduce anxiety and make the entire process less stressful for you.
1. Understand the procedure you’re considering. Before you arrive for your consultation with the board-certified plastic surgeon, research the procedure you have in mind about the procedure itself. Create a list of questions about the surgery, aftercare and recovery time. Find out what types of facelifts your doctor performs and ask specifically what he or she recommends for you. Ask if they have 3D animation. Watch the 3D animation here.
2. Ask to see before-and-after photos of patients for whom the surgeon has done cosmetic work. Different surgeons focus on different results. Does the surgeon create the look you’d like? What parts of the face will be treated? And always ask: What are the doctor’s goals for you?
3. Embrace recovery time. Know that you’ll need time to recover. Recovery time is also healing time. For most people recovery takes a few weeks. Be prepared for some discomfort and swelling as the body works to protect the area that has received surgery, but know that the swelling will eventually subside and that your surgeon will write a prescription for pain medication to keep you comfortable. You’ll need (and want) someone to stay with you at home for the first few days. In addition, your doctor will review all the items you’ll need at home to make your recovery time more comfortable.
If you’re considering a facelift and have questions, contact Dr. Tenley Lawton to schedule a consultation.