Risks and Complications

A face-lift is generally a very safe procedure, which provides very good long-term results, however although there are many benefits there are also a number of risks and potential complications associated with the procedure, which should be carefully considered before you make the decision whether or not to go ahead with surgery.

Most of the side effects are temporary, and could include blood or fluid retention under the skin, crusting of scars, problems with skin healing, skin or hair loss (this is very rare) and numbness. There is also a low risk of nerve damage.

Other complications and side effects of a face-lift include infection, swelling, scarring, bruising, hematoma, and reaction to the anaesthesia. The risks of these complications occurring can be minimised by carefully picking your surgeon and following the post surgery recovery instructions.

Infection

Infection can occur with any type of surgery. It usually happens within one to six weeks of surgery. In the majority of cases an infection can just be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of infection include fever as well as severe tenderness, redness, and swelling.

Swelling

Swelling is very common following facial surgery. It is usually at its worst 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Swelling is simply the body’s natural reaction to an injury, and it will subside as the body begins to heal itself. Swelling will probably start to subside after just a few days, though you will probably still notice some swelling several weeks after your face-lift surgery. You can help reduce the swelling by keeping your head elevated as much as possible and avoiding excessive or strenuous activities that increase blood flow.

Scarring

Scarring will occur with any kind of surgery. Your scars will usually remain pink for a few months before turning a less noticeable white. The locations of your scars will depend on the technique used by your surgeon. In most cases scars will fade over time and will not be noticeable as they are usually hidden in the hairline. More skilled surgeons are able to keep scarring to a minimum, so its important you choose a surgeon that has proven experience in performing face-lifts.

Bruising

Bruising is fairly common after any surgery although not everyone will experience it. The amount of bruising you get will depend on the skill of the surgeon and the individual patient. Bruising tends to be at its worst in the first few days of recovery after face-lift surgery, and is usually more visible around the eyes. While bruising is usually very minimal, if you have any large, firm, painful areas of bruising, contact your surgeon immediately as there is the possibility of developing a hematoma, which is a more serious type of bruise that will need treatment. However normal bruising should subside in one to two weeks. Hematoma is a serious complication involving blood accumulation beneath the skin. It can leave the area painfully swollen and additional surgery may be required to stop the flow and remove the blood. A Hematoma is a serious risk after having a face-lift so make sure you follow your surgeons instructions carefully.

If you have had your face-lift under general anaesthetic, then you also need to consider the risk associated with this. You can experience side effects from anaesthesia, such as a sore throat, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shivering, or muscle pain but these are usually temporary. It is very important that you let your surgeon know if you have experienced any reactions to anaesthesia in the past.

Most people experience some pain and discomfort following face-lift surgery however severe or sudden pain should be reported to your surgeon immediately.

The likelihood of serious complications arising from the procedure is typically influenced by the surgeon’s skill as well as your individual response to the surgery. However these severe risks can be avoided by following your surgeon’s advice and instructions.