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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – There is no such thing as surgery without risks, and cosmetic surgery is no exception. The facelift, or rhytidectomy, is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries and, while safe, it does care risks that should be taken seriously. Patients are always encouraged to ask as many questions as possible during their consultation with a facial plastic surgeon and educate themselves on these risks.
While serious risks are rare, some less serious complications following surgery are not uncommon, such as bruising. Steps can be taken by both the surgeon and the patient to effectively reduce these risks for a successful surgery and easy recovery.
Reaction to Anesthesia
Facelift surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, which carries a mild risk. There is a potential for a reaction to the anesthesia, which usually takes the form of temporary nausea as the drug wears off. For some patients, a more serious reaction is possible. To minimize this risk, bring up any serious reactions you have had in the past and discuss your current supplements and medications, alcohol use, tobacco use and medical conditions, any of which may increase the risk of adverse reaction.
Bleeding and Hematoma
It is normal to experience some bleeding after surgery, although excessive bleeding can occur rarely. If this is not treated, it can lead to a hematoma, or bleeding under the skin that requires intervention. Patients at risk for hematoma include those who have high blood pressure or hypertension, those who take certain pain medications like aspirin, those who smoke and those who use blood thinners. Discussing these medications is important to develop an appropriate surgical plan that minimizes risk.
Bruising
Meticulous and speedy surgery can help minimize bruising, particularly if the surgery is completed before the local anesthesia wears of. The skill and timing of the surgeon, which takes years to develop, can help minimize the risk of extensive bruising after surgery.
Lifestyle and Medical Conditions
An experienced and qualified plastic surgeon will always screen patients to ensure they are a good candidate for a facelift. Many medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, increases the risk of facelift complications. Avoiding risks involves excellent communication between the patient and surgeon to develop a personalized surgical plan.
You should remember that lifestyle factors can also increase your risks for certain complications. Smoking in particular can be very detrimental, as it slows healing and may result in poor healing, scarring and skin necrosis. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding. Always be honest with your surgeon about your medical issues and quit smoking at least 6 weeks ahead of surgery to ensure a speedier recovery.
Dr. Andrew Frankel is a Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon who specializes in facelift surgery. Dr. Frankel has practiced at the Lasky Clinic since 1994. He is double board certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and performs surgery exclusively on the head, neck and face. Dr. Frankel has worked as a consultant for Hollywood special effects, advising how to make actors appear younger or older in a more realistic manner, with work featured in X-Men 3 and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, among others.
Lasky Clinic Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery
Andrew S. Frankel
Beverly Hills, California USA
310-552-2173
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