Facelift

A traditional facelift procedure is performed through an incision starting in the hair or hairline above and in front of the ear (the temporal region). The incision is extended downward in front of the ear, comes under the ear and then upward behind the ear ending in the hair or hairline behind the ear. The skin and fatty tissues are then lifted off the underlying muscle and fascia (connective tissue) as far forward as is necessary to correct the loose skin problem. The underlying muscle and fascia can be tightened with sutures if the surgeon feels it is necessary. The skin is pulled back and upward and the excess skin removed. The wound is then closed with sutures and skin staples. Dr. Karatzias sometimes leaves a drain in the wounds to remove excess blood.

The patient may return to work after ten to fourteen days. More strenuous activity may be resumed after two weeks or more. Bruising should begin to disappear after seven to ten days. Sun exposure must be limited for several months after surgery. The use of a sun block that provides both UVA and UVB protection is recommended. Most facelifts can be expected to maintain optimum appearance for five to ten years.
Although infrequent, the risks and complications of facelift surgery include: bleeding, hematoma, bruising, infection, neurological dysfunction (loss of muscle function or sensation), which is usually temporary, widened or thickened scar, loss of hair (around the incision site), asymmetry (unevenness between two sides), skin necrosis (loss of skin from tissue death).
We use the most advanced surgical technology, disposables and techniques when performing treatments and procedures to maximise your results and diminish the length of your recovery period. To reduce risks and maintain as much of the results for as long as possible we recommend that you refrain from smoking for a minimum of six weeks prior to the surgery and for the duration of your recovery period. Please also note that for this particular procedure if you become pregnant or lose a significant amount of weight, you should wait until after your body has reached a stable equilibrium.

To determine if this procedure is right for you, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Karatzias. During the consultation, your concerns will be discussed in depth and the best surgical or non-surgical solution will be determined, always having your trepidations and expectations in mind.

To see if you are a candidate for this procedure or if you wish to learn more details about it, please complete our online consultation form or call at +357 22020721.

Other combined or alternative procedures / treatments:
Rhinoplasty, fat grafting, upper/lower blepharoplasty, forehead lift, direct brow lift, genioplasty, chemical peel.