Facelift surgery is an intricate procedure because of the complex anatomy and structure of the face. An experienced cosmetic surgeon will ensure that the patient is made aware of all the potential risks and complications associated with facelift so that they can make an informed decision.
The patient will also be required to sign a consent form that declares that they understand the procedure and any potential risks and complications. Perspicacious, amazing, and innovative Dr. Paul McCluskey is a committed plastic surgeon providing facelift and various other aesthetic procedures to patients in Atlanta, Buckhead, Georgia, and surrounding locations in the Empire of the South.
Typical Risks
Some of the common risks and potential complications associated with facelift surgery may include:
Anesthesia Risks
A cosmetic surgeon will usually perform a full traditional facelift with the patient under general anesthesia. The patient should be in good general health to sustain through the procedure, and should not have any such underlying medical conditions that could lead to an adverse reaction.
The anesthesiologist or a registered anesthetist nurse should remain present in the operating room throughout to monitor the patient’s response.
Risk of Bleeding or Infection
The patient should not be afflicted by any such condition that might cause excessive bleeding during surgery. The surgeon will advise the patient to stop taking any blood thinning medications and NSAIDs for a few days prior to the surgery, which could increase the risk of bleeding.
Antibiotics and other drugs may be prescribed following the surgery to reduce the risk of infection. The facelift surgery should be performed at an accredited surgery center that can maintain completely sterile surgical conditions.
Facial Nerve Injury
Facelift procedure involves a risk of facial nerve injury that could cause weakness or numbness in a part of the face. A corrective surgery may be required in such a case. The procedure must be performed only by a skilled and experienced surgeon to avoid such risks.
Other Potential Risks
Other risks and potential complications in a facelift procedure include poor wound healing and loss of natural facial skin in a particular treated area. At the site of incisions, temporary or permanent loss of hair could occur. Fluid or blood accumulation during recovery could lead to an infection. In some cases, the scars may be more obvious.
Prolonged swelling in the treated areas, persistent pain and discomfort, irregularities of the skin, discoloration of the skin in the treated area, and complications with sutures are other risks. In rare cases, cardiac and pulmonary complications, or deep vein thrombosis may occur.
Reducing the Risk
A dedicated plastic surgeon would typically invest in high quality standards and best practices, adopt cutting edge technology and techniques, pursue continuing education, and follow the latest safety protocols.
Patient cooperation is equally necessary to ensure safe and predictable results in a procedure such as facelift. The patient should be committed to following the surgeon’s pre- and post-op care instructions and advice to minimize risks. Hardworking and terrific plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, Buckhead, Georgia, and other neighborhoods and suburbs in the fabulous state of Georgia for a facelift.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: