Every year, thousands of patients achieve beautiful, natural results from facelift surgery. The difference between a smooth recovery and facelift complications often comes down to three factors: surgeon selection, proper preparation, and following recovery guidelines.
Proper pre and post facelift care and choosing the right plastic surgeon can prevent most facelift complications before they occur.
When you understand how to minimize risks, you take control of your surgical outcome and protect your investment in a more youthful appearance.
Related: Facelift Scars: What to Expect and How to Minimize Them
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Selecting an experienced, qualified plastic surgeon represents an important decision in your facelift journey. The expertise and skill of your plastic surgeon directly impacts your safety and results.
Board Certification And Qualifications
Always verify that your plastic surgeon holds board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification ensures the plastic surgeon has completed extensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures. Board-certified plastic surgeons must pass rigorous examinations and maintain continuing education requirements.
Check the plastic surgeon’s credentials through official medical board websites. A qualified plastic surgeon will openly discuss their training, certifications, and experience during your consultation.
Surgeon’s Experience With Facelift Procedures
Experience with facelift surgery specifically matters more than general plastic surgical experience. Ask how many facelift procedures the plastic surgeon performs annually. An experienced plastic surgeon typically performs dozens of facelifts each year.
Request to see before-and-after photos of previous facelift patients with similar facial structures to yours. This will help you understand the plastic surgeon’s technique and aesthetic approach. The plastic surgeon should be comfortable discussing their complication rates and how they handle any issues that arise.
Patient Reviews And Testimonials
Read reviews from previous facelift patients on review sites. Pay attention to comments about the plastic surgeon’s communication style, staff professionalism, and overall patient experience. Look for mentions of how complications were handled if they occurred.
Importance of the Surgical Facility
The surgical facility plays an important role in preventing facelift complications. A properly equipped and accredited facility maintains the highest safety standards.
Accreditation Of The Surgery Center
Ensure the surgical facility holds accreditation from recognized organizations such as the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities or The Joint Commission. Accredited facilities undergo regular inspections and must meet strict safety protocols.
Some key features that indicate a well-accredited facility:
- Proper equipment for monitoring patients during surgery
- Established protocols for infection control and patient safety
- Staff trained in emergency response procedures
- Regular equipment maintenance and safety inspections
Availability Of Emergency Services
The surgical facility should have protocols in place for handling medical emergencies. Emergency medications must be readily available and staff should be trained in advanced life support techniques.
For more complex procedures or patients with medical conditions, surgery should be performed in a facility with immediate access to hospital services. The plastic surgeon should explain their emergency protocols and have privileges at nearby hospitals if complications require additional treatment.
Cleanliness And Safety Protocols
Observe the cleanliness and organization of the surgical facility during your visit. The facility should follow strict sterilization procedures for all instruments and maintain a sterile environment in operating rooms.
Staff should follow proper hand hygiene and wear appropriate protective equipment. The facility should have clear protocols for preventing infection risks in facelift surgery and other procedures.
Pre-Operative Care Steps
Proper preparation before surgery significantly reduces the risk of facelift complications. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific pre-op instructions that must be followed carefully.
Detailed Medical History Review
Provide your plastic surgeon with a complete medical history, including all medications, supplements, and previous surgeries. Certain medical conditions can increase complication risks and may require special precautions or treatment modifications.
Be completely honest about these important factors:
- History of bleeding disorders or heart problems
- Any autoimmune conditions or chronic illnesses
- Smoking history and current alcohol consumption
- All prescription medications and supplements taken regularly
Your plastic surgeon may require medical clearance from other specialists before proceeding with surgery. Some conditions need to be well-controlled before any surgical procedure can be safely performed.
Nutrition Optimization Before Surgery
Good nutrition supports healing and reduces infection risks. Your plastic surgeon may recommend specific dietary guidelines in the weeks before surgery. Getting enough protein is particularly important for tissue healing.
Some plastic surgeons recommend vitamin C supplementation to support collagen production and wound healing. Avoid crash diets or significant weight changes before surgery, as this can affect skin elasticity and surgical planning.
Control Of Pre-Existing Conditions
Any pre-existing medical conditions should be well-controlled before surgery. High blood pressure, diabetes, and other conditions can increase complication risks if not properly managed.
Your plastic surgeon may require recent lab work or medical clearance from your primary care physician. Take all prescribed medications as directed and follow any special instructions for managing your conditions during the surgical period.
Post-Operative Care Basics
Following post-operative instructions helps prevent complications and promotes optimal healing. Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed guidelines specific to your procedure.
Following Surgeon’s Recovery Instructions
Follow all activity restrictions provided by your plastic surgeon. These limitations exist to prevent complications such as hematoma after facelift or wound healing problems. Avoid lifting heavy objects, bending over, or engaging in strenuous activities during the initial recovery period.
Take prescribed medications exactly as directed, including antibiotics and pain medications. Never stop antibiotics early, even if you feel well. Complete the full course to prevent infection risks in facelift surgery.
Proper Head Elevation Techniques
Keep your head above your heart level for the first several days after surgery. This reduces swelling and helps prevent excessive swelling. Use multiple pillows or a reclining chair to maintain proper positioning while sleeping.
These positioning guidelines below are important during early recovery:
- Sleep with your head raised at least 45 degrees
- Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach
- Use a travel pillow to prevent rolling during sleep
- Keep your head elevated even during daytime rest periods
Monitoring Blood Pressure Regularly
High blood pressure can lead to bleeding complications and hematoma formation. Monitor your blood pressure during recovery and contact your plastic surgeon if readings are higher than normal.
Avoid activities that can raise blood pressure, such as straining, heavy lifting, or emotional stress. Take prescribed blood pressure medications as directed and follow dietary recommendations to maintain stable readings.
Related: How Long Does Facelift Recovery Take?
Avoiding Risk Factors for Complications
Removing known risk factors before and after surgery significantly reduces the likelihood of complications. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your individual situation.
Discontinuing Blood-Thinning Medications
Stop all blood-thinning medications and supplements as directed by your plastic surgeon. This typically includes aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E supplements. These substances increase bleeding risks and can lead to hematoma formation.
Common medications and supplements to avoid include:
- Aspirin and aspirin-containing products
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen
- Fish oil and omega-3 supplements
- Vitamin E supplements and herbal remedies
- Blood thinners like Coumadin, Elaquist etc.
Provide your plastic surgeon with a complete list of all medications and supplements that you regularly take. Some prescription blood thinners may need to be stopped over a period of several days before surgery, while others may require alternative management strategies.
Preventing Infection With Antibiotics
Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed to prevent infection risks in facelift surgery. Begin antibiotics when instructed and continue to take the antibiotics for the full prescribed course.
Watch for signs of allergic reactions to antibiotics and contact your plastic surgeon immediately if you experience unusual symptoms. Never share antibiotics with others or save leftover medications for future use.
Importance Of Smoking Cessation
Stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery and continue avoiding tobacco throughout your recovery. Smoking significantly increases the risk of skin sloughing after facelift and other healing complications.
Nicotine reduces blood flow to healing tissues and can cause serious wound healing problems. This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and nicotine replacement products. Even secondhand smoke exposure should be avoided during recovery.
Cessation of nicotine products also applies to stopping the use of marijuana and related THC products.
Managing Common Complications
Understanding potential complications helps you recognize warning signs and when to seek prompt treatment. Early intervention often prevents minor issues from becoming serious problems.
Identifying Hematoma Symptoms
Hematoma after facelift occurs when blood collects under the skin, typically within the first 24 hours after surgery. Watch for hematoma warning signs that require immediate medical attention.
Key symptoms of hematoma include:
- Sudden onset of severe pain on one side of the face
- Significant swelling that appears quickly
- Tightness or pressure sensation in the surgical area
- Bruising that appears darker or more extensive than expected
Contact your plastic surgeon immediately if you suspect hematoma formation. This complication requires prompt surgical drainage to prevent permanent damage. Never wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.
Recognizing Signs Of Infection
Signs of infection include increasing redness around incisions, warmth, fever, and discharge containing pus. These symptoms typically develop 5 to 7 days after surgery rather than immediately.
Initial mild redness and some swelling are normal, but these should gradually improve over time. Increasing symptoms or new onset of fever warrant immediate medical attention. Early treatment of infections prevents more serious complications.
Understanding Nerve Injury Risks
Nerve injury from facelifts can cause temporary or permanent numbness, weakness, or changes in facial expression. Most nerve injuries are temporary and resolve within several months as swelling decreases.
Report any concerning changes in facial movement or sensation to your plastic surgeon. While nerve injuries cannot always be prevented, early recognition allows for appropriate monitoring and treatment if necessary.
Maintaining Long-Term Results
Proper long-term care protects your investment and helps maintain your facelift results for many years. Following these guidelines also reduces the risk of needing revision facelift complications.
Importance Of A Good Skincare Routine
Develop a gentle skincare routine once your incisions have fully healed. Use products recommended by your plastic surgeon to avoid irritation or adverse reactions. Quality skincare helps maintain skin health and can extend the longevity of your results.
These skincare principles support long-term success:
- Start with gentle, fragrance-free medical grade products
- Introduce new products one at a time
- Avoid harsh scrubbing on surgical areas
- Follow your plastic surgeon’s specific product recommendations
Use Of Sunscreen To Protect Skin
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your investment and prevent premature aging. Sun exposure can cause darkening of scars and speed up the aging process that your facelift addressed.
Choose sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply regularly when outdoors. Wear protective clothing and hats when possible to provide additional protection. Sun protection is particularly important during the first year after surgery when scars are still maturing.
Adjunctive and Related Procedures:
It is highly recommended that you maintain your facelift results with non invasive facial rejuvenation procedures that are performed in the office and include:
- Neuromodulators such as Botox and Dysport
- Fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, Voluma and Restylane Lyft
- Microneedling such as Morpheus 8
- Ultrasound Skin tightening such as Sofwave
- Intense pulse light treatment such as BBL by Sciton
- Erbium skin resurfacing such as HALO by Sciton
Regular Follow-Up Appointments With Plastic Surgeon
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon. These visits allow for monitoring of your healing progress and early detection of any potential issues. Your plastic surgeon can address concerns and make recommendations for maintaining your results.
Long-term follow-up helps identify any changes that might benefit from minor revisions or additional treatments. Maintaining a relationship with your plastic surgeon provides ongoing support for your cosmetic surgery journey.
Take the First Step – Talk to Dr. Adrian Lo About Your Facelift
Preventing facelift complications starts with choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who prioritizes patient safety. Dr. Adrian Lo brings extensive expertise in facial cosmetic surgery to patients throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
During your consultation, Dr. Adrian Lo will thoroughly evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and explain how to minimize risks throughout your facelift journey. His commitment to personalized care ensures that you receive the safest, most effective treatment plan for your unique needs.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how to achieve beautiful, natural-looking facelift results while minimizing complications. Your journey to a more youthful appearance begins with the right plastic surgeon and proper planning.