Whether we like it or not, time impacts us all. This can affect our faces, leading to loose skin, loss of jawline definition and deep facial folds. While there is no problem with aging naturally, these issues can lead people to wonder whether intervention in the form of a facelift may help.
If you are curious whether a surgical facelift is right for you, it is important to discuss this with a specialist plastic surgeon like Artiste Plastic Surgery. We will be able to provide tailored advice to help you regain your youthful look and give you back the confidence that you may be lacking.
Let’s delve into this topic a little further as we explore some signs that might indicate you’re ready for a facelift.
Key Indicators That Suggest you are Suitable for a Facelift
Deciding whether to undergo a surgical facelift can be overwhelming. We’ll now discuss a list of factors that plastic surgeons typically look at to judge who is a suitable candidate and who may not be.
Deep Wrinkles or Facial Folds
While some superficial wrinkles are suitable for non-surgical options, if you have deep folds and wrinkles, you may require a surgical solution.
These signs in particular show you may benefit from a face lift:
- Lines from the nose to the corner of your mouth (nasolabial folds)
- Evident wrinkles that persist even when the face is static or at rest
- Lines from the corner of your mouth to your chin (Marionette lines)
These persistent wrinkles are the result of volume loss, structural changes in the face, and skin laxity, all of which can be rectified with a facelift.
Major or Moderate Skin Laxity
Skin laxity refers to the loss of firmness and elasticity of the skin. It is the reason why skin sags or appears loose. This may occur on the face or neck, contributing to an aged look.
Some key areas where you might notice skin laxity are:
- Loose skin in the neck (sometimes colloquially known as ‘turkey neck’)
- Flattened cheeks
- loose skin around the jawline (jowl)
- Lack of definition between the face and neck
Positive General Health
As with all surgeries, it’s important that you are in good health prior to treatment. Here’s a few considerations:
- You feel well most of the time
- You don’t have any significant illnesses
- You don’t have any medical issues that might make it more difficult to heal (e.g. diabetes)
- You don’t smoke or you are willing to stop smoking for 8 weeks before and after surgery
Your plastic surgeon will perform a thorough health assessment to ensure you are a good candidate for the surgery.
Realistic Expectations
While surgical facelifts can improve your appearance, it is important to be realistic in your expectations.
- Do not expect perfection, expect improvement
- Recognise that surgery cannot stop the aging process
- Expect a more youthful appearance, not a transformation
- Recognise that lifestyle and diet also play a role in your appearance
You are Prepared for Recovery
Surgical facelift recovery requires patience. Before you undergo a surgery like this, it’s important to note the following.
- You may have to wait several months for healing and results
- You must follow all pre-op and post-op instructions
- The initial recovery period lasts approximately 2 weeks
- Social downtime may be closer to 6 weeks due to bruising
Being prepared for recovery mentally and physically is important to ensure the best possible surgery experience and results.
Considering a Facelift?
Artiste Plastic Surgery uses advanced medical science and craft to provide excellence in facial plastic surgery. We are led by Dr. Jack Zoumaras, a world-class specialist plastic surgeon. Why not book a consultation to see if a facelift is right for you? Either click the button on our website or call 02 9327 1700.