If you want to combat the visible signs of aging with long-term results, then a face lift procedure is an excellent option. Unlike non-surgical aesthetic treatments, this procedure can transform the texture of your skin for several years. At East Bay Aesthetic Surgery in Pleasanton, CA, we want to make sure you have all the information you need about this procedure, including how long your recovery period will be.
How Long Is Recovery After a Face Lift?
In general, the recovery period after a surgical face procedure is between four to six weeks. During this time, your recovery will have several phases. You may need to attend follow-up appointments so our expert plastic surgeon Dr. Bachelor can assess how well you are healing. Some people may require more time to fully recover, particularly if the entire face has been lifted rather than a small zone.
Week One
During the first week of your recovery, you should focus on resting as much as possible so your body can start the healing process. On the day of your surgery, you will need transportation home and assistance at home since your activities will be greatly limited. You should rest with your head elevated and follow your surgeon’s directions for wound cleaning and dressing.
About three to six days after your surgery, you will have an easier time moving around the house. You will not be able to exercise during this time, but you can take a shower, lightly stretch, and walk around in 10-minute intervals. You may be able to resume light housework, such as preparing a meal.
Week Two
Two weeks after your procedure, you should be well enough to go back to work and resume some daily activities, such as taking walks outside. You will still need to avoid strenuous activities, chlorine pools, saunas, hot tubs, and tanning beds. You may also begin to use your normal skincare products at this time.
Weeks Three to Six
The last few weeks of your recovery period will allow you to slowly resume your normal activities, such as moderate exercise like yoga. As you get back to your usual schedule, remember to take it easy so you don’t delay your recovery. You should continue to follow all of your surgeon’s recommended aftercare instructions until your surgeon determines you are fully healed from the procedure.
Why Is This Procedure Beneficial?
A face lift procedure is very beneficial for patients who have moderate to severe signs of aging. If you have found that your anti-aging skincare products are not performing optimally or that you are not getting your desired results from aesthetic treatments, then you will be able to benefit from this procedure. This surgical technique can correct the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles, reduce sagging skin, and elevate facial tissues for a younger-looking visage.
What Are Different Types of Procedures?
A traditional lift is a full-face rejuvenation technique that tackles visible signs of aging on the mid-face, lower face, and brow area. A full lift is most appropriate for patients who have significant age-related concerns, such as deep folds and excess skin. However, other than a traditional lift, there are three variations of this procedure.
Mid-Face
A procedure for the midface will focus on the middle of the face, such as the area around the nose. Typically, this procedure will address concerns from the eyebrows to the nose to the cheeks. If your goal is to reduce hollowness in the cheeks, this procedure is ideal.
Lower Face
Many people also have age-related concerns on the lower face. A lower lift addresses areas from the nose to the jawline, including chin wrinkles, wrinkles around the mouth and nose, and sagging skin along the jawline. This procedure can be used to contour the jawline as well.
Upper Face
Wrinkles on the upper face can sometimes be challenging to treat since the skin in this area is very sensitive. Sagging brows and loose skin around the eyes can be addressed with a brow lift, which can remove horizontal forehead lines, crow’s feet, and other visible signs of aging.
When Will You See the Results?
You will typically see your final results after you have fully recovered from the procedure. After four to six weeks, your skin should be healed enough that your anti-aging results are obvious. However, you may not achieve optimal results until after six to 12 months since internal skin healing takes much longer than external skin healing.
How Long Do Results Last?
The results of this procedure can last for several years, sometimes a decade or longer. While a lift procedure can immediately tighten and lift your skin, the natural aging process will still cause skin laxity in the future. However, you may be able to enjoy longer-lasting results if you make healthy lifestyle choices, reduce your stress, and prioritize your skincare routine.
If you drink enough water, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid tobacco products, you can give your skin all the tools it needs to remain youthful for longer. Using anti-aging skincare products that encourage cellular turnover and skin hydration can also boost your results. Finally, wearing sunscreen consistently can protect your skin from premature aging, which can help maintain your results for as long as possible.
Who Are Ideal Candidates?
Candidates who are ideal for a lift procedure include people who are between the ages of 40 and 70 and who are in good general health. Women and men can use this procedure to improve visible signs of aging, reduce skin sagging, and correct muscle laxity. Candidates for this procedure should have realistic expectations and clear goals. If you also want to address superficial concerns like dark spots, you may need to pair this surgery with an aesthetic treatment.
Reverse the Clock With a Facial Lift Procedure
If you want to turn back the clock and enjoy a refreshed appearance, a face lift procedure is an ideal option for you. The long-lasting results of this procedure, paired with the natural-looking results, can help you feel vastly more confident about your appearance. Get in touch with us at East Bay Aesthetic Surgery, in Pleasanton, CA to schedule a consultation today.