Facelift Surgery Melbourne and Bendigo

What is Facelift Surgery?

The medical term for facelift surgery is rhytidectomy. This procedure is designed to address signs of ageing in the face, such as sagging skin and wrinkles, resulting in a refreshed and revitalized appearance. Facelift surgery is a popular facial rejuvenation option for those looking to achieve a more defined and refreshed look.

Why have Facelift Surgery?

Many people choose to have facelift surgery to combat the signs of ageing. It can help lift sagging skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Watch this video on the benefits of Facelift surgery?

Am I a good candidate for Facelift?

Good candidates for surgery are typically those in good overall health that have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. Patients that are smokers must be willing to quit smoking for at least six weeks before and six weeks after surgery to promote optimal healing.

It is important to discuss your goals and medical history with a qualified plastic surgeon during a consultation to determine if this surgery is right for you.

Risks and Complications

All surgery carries risks and potential complications, including Facelift Surgery. Although choosing a trained and experienced plastic surgeon can help mitigate some of these, patients still need to be aware of them before surgery. Dr Snell will extensively discuss the risks and potential complication during your consultation. Some of the risks include:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Nerve damage and changes in skin sensation
• Complications from General Anesthesia
• Seroma or Hematoma
• Hair loss around incisions
• Discoloring of the skin
• Asymmetry
• Delayed wound healing
• And, more.

For more information on risks and potential complications visit our dedicated Risks Page.

The Procedure

There are several different techniques that a surgeon can use, depending on the individual patient’s needs and goals.

Dr Snell conducts all surgeries in a reputable and accredited operating facilities/hospitals, where general anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort and safety. Throughout the procedure, a qualified anesthetist will closely monitor your vitals to ensure your safety and comfort.

The duration of the facelift surgery vary depending on the chosen technique and the specific requirements of your individualized surgical plan, typically this surgery can range from four to six hours.

Incisions will be strategically made to achieve optimal results while keeping them discreet and hidden within natural contours of the face. These incisions may be positioned within the hairline, behind the ear, in front of the ear, and/or beneath the chin.

Through these precisely positioned incisions, Dr Snell conducts a meticulous and comprehensive procedure, addressing multiple aspects to achieve the desired outcome. He will carefully remove any excess skin, tighten and lift the deep connective tissues, adjust underlying muscles for enhanced contouring, and skillfully sculpt fat deposits as needed. Once these surgical modifications are completed to Dr Snell’s satisfaction, he will delicately redrape the skin and close the incisions with sutures. Patients will have bandages applied to the face to facility healing.

Given the comprehensive nature of the facelift procedure, patients may require an overnight stay in the hospital for observation and monitoring to ensure their well-being and comfort. Before being discharged, patients will receive thorough post-operative instructions to follow during their recovery period. These instructions are essential for promoting a smooth healing process and optimizing the final results. Following these guidelines diligently will contribute to a successful outcome

Facelift Recovery

While the exact recovery timeline may vary depending on individual factors and the extent of the procedure, here are some general recovery guidelines:

Immediate Recovery

After the surgery, patients will likely experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Cold compresses and pain medication can help manage these initial discomforts. Depending on the complexity of the surgery and the surgeon’s preference, you may need to stay in the hospital for one or two nights for observation.

Bandages and Dressings

Your face will be wrapped in bandages to support the healing process and minimize swelling. These dressings are usually removed within a few days.

Post-Operative Instructions

Before being discharged, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions from your surgeon. These will cover wound care, medication management, and activities to avoid during the initial healing phase.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising are common in the first few weeks but will gradually subside. Keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling.

Stitches Removal

These sutures/stitches are usually removed at a follow-up appointment, (around 10 days after the surgery). However, if your surgeon uses dissolvable sutures, you won’t need suture removal as they will gradually dissolve on their own over time.

Follow-up appointments

During follow-up appointments, your surgeon will assess your healing progress, remove any non-dissolvable sutures or staples, and ensure that your incisions are healing properly. It is crucial to attend all scheduled follow-ups to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible results.

Resuming Daily Activities

Most patients can begin to resume light activities after around 2 weeks, but it is essential to get the all clear from your surgeon first and to continue to avoid strenuous exercises and heavy lifting.

Returning to Work

Depending on your individual healing progress and the nature of your work, you may be able to return to work after two to four weeks. If your job is physically demanding you may need to wait until you have recovered further before returning to work.

Final Results

While you will notice an improvement in the appearance of your face shortly after the procedure, it may take several months for the final results to fully reveal as swelling subsides and the tissues settle into their new position.

Remember, every patient’s recovery is unique, and it is essential to follow your surgeon’s specific post-operative care instructions for the best outcome. Patience and adherence to your surgeon’s guidance will contribute to a successful result.

Read more about Recovery after Facelift Surgery Melbourne.

Facelift Before and After Photos

Before and after photos can be a helpful way to see what facelift surgery has been able to achieve for others. But its important to remember they are only meant as a visual guide to help you see the types of results that can be achieved through plastic and cosmetic surgery. Individual results will vary and the outcomes of any surgical procedure cannot be guaranteed. Photos are not intended as promises or a guarantee of specific results. Rather, as a tool to help visualize what is possible.

Remember each person is unique, and the results of surgery will depend on a variety of factors including overall health, body type, and healing ability.

How much is Facelift in Melbourne?

The cost of facelift surgery in Melbourne can vary due to several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, the length of hospital stay, and other related expenses.

If you are considering a facelift procedure in Melbourne, the cost can range from $12,000 to upwards of $25,000 for a SMAS Facelift and Necklift. It is important to discuss the best treatment plan for your individual needs with a qualified plastic surgeon. (It is important to note that this is just an average, and actual costs may vary depending on individual circumstances and specific requirements.)

For accurate and personalized information regarding the cost of Facelift surgery, it is best to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, they can provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved and address any specific concerns you may have.

Find out more about Surgery pricing here.

Planning your Facelift Journey

It is important to carefully plan your facelift journey to ensure that you are well-prepared for the procedure and have a smooth recovery. This may include arranging for transportation to and from the surgery and organizing time off work to recover.

How to find a Facelift surgeon in Melbourne

There are several steps you can take to find the right Facelift Surgeon for you. Start by asking for recommendations from either friends or family members who have had surgery. This can be a good starting point.

Your surgical results will depend heavily on the surgeon you choose. A Facelift is a major procedure, and you need a reputable, qualified surgeon.

In Australia, a plastic surgeon must have the following qualifications:

• An undergraduate degree in medicine, typically a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree.
• A minimum of two years of general medical training as a junior hospital doctor.
• Completion of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) surgical education and training program, which includes at least five years of accredited surgical training, with at least two years in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
• Fellowship with the RACS in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Plastic surgeons in Australia must also be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and adhere to the standards and guidelines set forth by the Medical Board of Australia.

We suggest you schedule consultations with several different surgeons to not only get a better understanding of your options but to also find the best surgeon for you. What’s best for someone else may not be what’s best for you. You need to trust your gut and pay attention to how they make you feel. Its important that you feel confident and comfortable in the surgeons hands.

Have you considered non-surgical treatments?

Non-surgical facelift, refers to procedures that do not involve surgery (non-invasive treatments) like dermal fillers or skin tightening procedures. These may be a great option for those that only suffer from minor wrinkles and skin sagging. Unfortunately, these options are not as long-lasting as surgery, however they are a great option if you want to rejuvenate your face a little without going under the knife. This option can also delay/slow down ageing, which can in turn delay your desire to undergo surgery.

Most Popular FAQs

How long does a facelift last?

The results are “long lasting”, as they can last for several years. However, surgery does not stop the natural ageing process it merely slows it down.

How long is the recovery time for facelift surgery?

As with most surgeries, recovery time can vary, but most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within a few weeks. Make sure you get the all clear from your surgeon before resuming any physical activity.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to facelift surgery?

There are several non-surgical facial rejuvenation options available, including dermal fillers, laser skin resurfacing, and non-invasive skin tightening procedures. However, these treatments may not provide the same level of results.

Can men have facelift surgery?

Yes, Facelift surgery is a cosmetic procedure that can benefit individuals of any gender identity. The effects of ageing, such as sagging skin and wrinkles, can impact anyone, regardless of gender or how they identify.

Facelift surgery for men involves the same general principles as it does for women. The surgeon will adjust the surgical approach account for differences in facial anatomy and hairlines. Men typically have thicker skin and more robust facial structures, so a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon will tailor the procedure to address unique, individual characteristics.

What Next?

If you are looking at starting your facelift surgery journey, there are several steps you can take to prepare.

• Research
  • It is important to thoroughly research facelift surgery and understand the procedure, potential risks and complications, and the recovery process.
  • This can help you make an informed decision about whether or not the procedure is right for you.

• Find a qualified surgeon

• Choose a plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and has experience performing facelift surgery.
• Look for a surgeon who has a track record of producing natural-looking results and is able to listen to your concerns and goals.

• Schedule a consultation
  • During a consultation, your surgeon will;
    • Evaluate your facial structure and skin quality
    • Discuss your goals and expectations
    • And provide you with information about the procedure and recovery process.
  • Be sure to ask any questions you may have and voice any concerns you may have.

• Prepare for the surgery
  • Once you have decided to proceed with facelift surgery, your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
  • These may include avoiding certain medications and supplements, stopping smoking and alcohol consumption, and arranging for transportation to and from the hospital.

• Consider financing options
  • The cost of facelift surgery can vary, so it is important to discuss financing options with your surgeon.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your facelift surgery journey goes smoothly and you achieve the best possible results.

Further Reading and Medical References

• ASPS facelift info and facelift video
• Mayo Clinic facelift

If you are considering facelift surgery, it is important to do your research and fully understand the procedure before making a decision. There are many resources available to help you learn more about facelift surgery, including online articles, books, and patient forums. It is also a good idea to discuss your questions and concerns with a qualified plastic surgeon.

Disclaimer
Please note that any content provided on our website is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this website. The author and publisher do not guarantee the accuracy, applicability, or completeness of the information presented herein. All actions taken based on the information in this article are at your own risk.