Are you considering a facelift? On this page you can read what you can expect in the period surrounding the operation, from the preparation to the moment you return home. This way you are well informed and can make a well-considered decision. Are you being operated on at our clinic? Then you will of course receive additional information from us.
Preparing for surgery
A facelift is an extensive and precise procedure that we prepare carefully. During the first consultation, you will discuss your wishes, expectations and medical background with your plastic surgeon. We will look at, among other things:
– Previous surgeries (on the face);
– Your use of medication;
– Known allergies;
– Alcohol and drug use;
– Your overall physical and mental health.
With this information, the plastic surgeon can determine whether the operation can be performed safely. In addition, the extent to which your wishes are technically feasible and what you can realistically expect from the result will be discussed. You will receive a detailed explanation of the operation, the recovery and possible risks or complications. Of course, there is plenty of opportunity to ask questions during the consultation. We are happy to take the time for this - you should feel completely reassured and informed. More information about the consultation can be found here.
What you can do yourself before the operation
To reduce swelling, bruising and recovery symptoms, we recommend the following:
- Start two weeks before the operation by taking Arnica D6: 20 drops three times a day, with water before meals. Continue this until two weeks after the procedure.
- Use daily vitamin C (1000 mg) from two weeks before until two weeks after the operation.
- Avoid in the last two weeks before surgery: coffee, black tea, alcohol and peppermint.
In addition, we recommend that you make an appointment with a beautician in the week before the operation for a deep cleansing of the facial skinThis improves blood circulation and promotes faster recovery.
On the morning of the surgery, wash your hair with a mild shampoo and do not wear any make-up, creams or other cosmetics on your face. It is important that you come to the surgery center with completely clean skin.
The surgery
A facelift is performed under light anesthesia in combination with local anesthesia. The procedure takes an average of three to four hours, depending on the extent and complexity of the treatment. For a larger facelift, you will stay one night at our clinic. Smaller facelifts are sometimes performed as day treatment. Your plastic surgeon will discuss this with you during the consultation, so you will know in advance what to expect.
The incision and the scar
During the operation, the plastic surgeon makes a skin incision in:
- the hairy part of the temple,
- before the ear,
- and behind the ear, also in the hairy part.
The scar for the ear is initially visible, but usually heals nicely and is barely visible after a while. Scars behind the ear and in the hairy area are almost invisible.
Tighten and lift
During the operation, the underlying connective tissue (the so-called SMAS) lifted and firmed. Excess skin is removed and the skin is carefully repositioned for a natural, youthful appearance.
After the operation
At the end of the procedure, we place drains behind the ears. These drains are connected to small vacuum jars to drain blood and tissue fluid. You will also receive a firm bandage around your head to support your face and reduce swelling.
After the operation, you will be taken to a comfortable room, where you will wake up in peace and where you will (in most cases) stay overnight. The next morning, the surgeon will remove the drains, the dressing will be changed and you will receive extensive instructions from us about the aftercare. You will then be allowed to go home under supervision.
More information
When you choose to have surgery at Aesthetic Center Jan van Goyen, you will receive all the necessary information from us before the operation. We believe it is important that you are well informed and make a well-considered decision, so we are happy to take the time to provide you with all the information. Do you have any questions at this time? Please contact us. Our team of consultants will be happy to assist you.
Doctors
During the no-obligation consultation, you will discuss your wishes and the treatment with the plastic surgeon. We understand that a procedure can be a significant step, so the surgeon is happy to take the time to tell you all about it. Our specialized surgeons are:
