It is extremely important that every prospective face lift patient be informed of the type of risks associated with the procedure. Dr. Fialkov possesses the skill and surgical experience that significantly lowers the level of risk associated with facelift surgery, however complications are still possible when any surgery is performed, whether it is cosmetic or functional. You can only make an informed decision on whether or not to undergo a facelift when you’re fully aware of the problems that can result from the procedure. These are thoroughly discussed during the consultation process.While reading the following list of risks and complications, it is important to remember that everybody responds to surgery differently. It’s impossible to predict how high the level of risk is for a patient without the insight of both a physical evaluation and a review of their medical history.POTENTIAL FACELIFT RISKS AND COMPLICATIONSCertain complications can arise during or after any form of surgery. These include excessive bleeding, blood accumulation (hematoma), problematic reactions to anaesthetic and infection, all of which are temporary and treatable with immediate medical attention. To minimize the rate at which these occur, facelift procedures are performed within completely sterile environments and proper surgical techniques are applied.
Aside from the type of risks inherent to surgery in general, there are also a number of specific complications that can result from the facelift procedure. These include:
The nerves that are responsible for controlling facial movement can be injured during the facelift surgery, however this is extremely rare. A patient whose nerves are injured is likely to see full facial movement restored as the body heals. Permanent damage is very unlikely, but is possible.
Dr. Fialkov is mindful when making incisions since every mark made to the skin will result in some amount of scarring. He lessens the risk of leaving behind noticeable, unsightly scars by creating incisions where they will be hidden by the natural contours of the face.
The areas of the face where incisions have been made may feel tingly or become numb after treatment. Any changes to skin sensation typically resolve during the recovery process.
In very rare cases, patients may lose skin or hair after undergoing a facelift. This complication is very rare and most often affects individuals with a history of smoking. Ceasing tobacco use for the instructed length of time before and after the procedure is essential.
The skin may become discoloured after a facelift. Very few people will experience this complication, but, if it does develop, the change in colour can persist for a period of several months. It is very likely to resolve over time, however.
The incision lines made during surgery may scab or crust over. This is only a temporary issue and will subside as the body heals itself.
Hematoma refers to the accumulation of blood underneath the skin. If this occurs, it requires surgical removal and the use of drains.
Facelifts can lead to irregular facial contours, asymmetry, or other cosmetic issues. Patients with reasonable expectations are much more likely to be satisfied with their level of improvement.
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