Is a facelift safe?

Face lifting is associated with the risk of complications, however, an experienced specialist effectively minimizes them. Most typical discomforts after the procedure are temporary. Common post-procedure symptoms that resolve during recovery include: swelling, bruising, and skin redness.

The most common serious issue after a facelift is bruising. Among rarer but significant complications are also: infections, excessive scarring, or skin necrosis.

The greatest concern is the risk of damage to the facial nerve. This can lead to facial numbness, and in extreme cases, muscle paralysis, which can be a permanent condition.

The safety of face lifting is closely related to the chosen technique. The most invasive methods are surgical procedures, such as Deep Plane or SMAS, which require deep intervention in the tissue structures, especially in the SMAS (musculoaponeurotic system) layer. This extensive intervention is associated with higher risk of complications - from nerve damage to extensive bruising - and also prolongs the recovery time. Nevertheless, it is the only way to effectively correct advanced loss of skin elasticity and remove deep wrinkles.

On the other hand, non-invasive methods, such as soft lifting, threads, fillers, or botox, provide a much safer way to improve facial appearance. They do not break the continuity of the skin, thereby minimizing the risk of infections and serious complications. They are ideal when skin firmness loss is mild - they improve facial contour with minimal strain on the body.

The safety of lifting depends not only on the technique, but also on the strict qualification of the patient.

There are absolute contraindications to the procedure, which automatically exclude its performance. These include: any active infections (cutaneous or systemic), blood clotting disorders, the period of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

It is also necessary to assess the risks associated with uncontrolled chronic diseases, such as: uncontrolled hypertension, advanced diabetes or serious heart conditions. Tobacco smoking is a relative contraindication to the procedure, as it can increase the risk of skin necrosis up to 12 times and significantly hinder wound healing. When qualifying for the procedure, the doctor always takes into account the general condition of the skin and the age of the patient.

The proper choice of anesthesia is crucial for the safety of any facelift procedure. Anesthesia (general anesthesia) poses the greatest burden on the body and is associated with the highest risk of complications, especially in patients with chronic diseases. For this reason, general anesthesia is used only for very extensive surgical operations.

A much safer option is local anesthesia, often enhanced with pharmacological sedation. This approach eliminates serious risks typical of anesthesia, which is why it is preferred for less invasive procedures, such as a mini facelift.

Regardless of the chosen facelift method, the safety and course of the entire procedure are always overseen by a qualified specialist.

To minimize the risk associated with the procedure, always choose a qualified plastic surgeon or an experienced aesthetic medicine doctor. Their knowledge and proper qualifications for the procedure are the basis for safely performing a facelift. It is very important to strictly follow preoperative recommendations, which guarantee a safe procedure and fast wound healing. The necessary elements of preparation for the procedure include:

• detailed consultation during which you will discuss your expectations and any potential contraindications to the facelift,
• performing the requested laboratory tests – an ECG is mandatory if general anesthesia is planned,
• informing the doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, as some may increase the risk of bleeding,
• stopping the use of stimulants, especially tobacco,
• obtaining proper qualification for the procedure based on a medical interview and test results.

To achieve a lasting and satisfying lifting effect, it is necessary to strictly follow post-operative instructions. Rigorously adhering to post-operative instructions guarantees the safety and success of the procedure.

The following steps are essential for proper wound healing:

• Minimizing swelling by sleeping with the head elevated higher than the heart and regularly applying cold compresses,
• Absolutely avoiding intense physical exertion for the period determined by the surgeon,
• Maintaining wound hygiene and regularly taking prescribed medications (e.g. antibiotics and painkillers),
• Avoiding sun exposure, saunas, and pools, as they can significantly increase the risk of infection,
• Attending regular follow-up visits, during which the doctor monitors skin healing and removes stitches.