What are face and neck lifts?
What are face and neck lifts?
As we age, our skin loses its youthful elasticity causing the skin on the face and neck to droop and sag. This may give the face a fatigued and tired appearance and can affect self-confidence. A face lift is a procedure intended to restore the skin’s tightness and shape and is focused on lifting the cheeks and jawline to create a youthful and rejuvenated look.
Apart from general looseness and sagging, the skin on the neck can also suffer from age-related issues, such as neck lines and folds. A neck lift can alleviate these issues in a similar fashion, by removing excess skin and fat, while tightening the skin. A neck lift is often performed in conjunction with a face lift.
Full face lift vs mini face lift
Full face lift vs mini face lift
A full face lift is an extensive procedure, and typically involves addressing areas such as the cheeks, midface, lower face, jowls and jawline. However, a mini face lift is intended to make more minor corrections to specific parts of the face, usually focusing on a limited are of the face. For example, a mini face lift can be used to improve the contour of the jawline with a lower face lift, or rejuvenate the eyebrow and upper cheek in a upper face lift. A mini face lift is a suitable option for those who have less prominent signs of facial aging, or who prefer less extensive procedure involving fewer and smaller incisions. During the consultation, our surgeon will discuss your goals for the surgery and advise you on which procedure is most suitable for you.
If you are an individual who falls under these categories, you may be suitable for a tummy tuck surgery.
- Post weight loss from diet and exercise
- Post weight loss after bariatric surgery
- Women after multiple pregnancies
- Individuals who have lost weight but have localized areas of fat or loose skin that cannot be reduced with further diet or exercise
An ideal candidate should have no serious health problems, no upper abdominal scars, stable weight for some time, and realistic expectations. Smoking should be stopped at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. You should also inform our surgeon if you are taking long term medication or supplements.
What to expect from a face/neck lift procedure
What to expect from a face/neck lift procedure
If you are seeking a face or neck lift, a consultation with our surgeon is important. During the consultation, our surgeon will examine your face and discuss potential options for the face or neck lift procedure.
A full face lift is usually done under general anaesthesia. Bruising and swelling is expected after the surgery, as the body heals. This should last around 1-2 weeks, and you should be able to return to work after 4 weeks. A compression garment will need to be worn to ensure a smooth recovery.
A mini face lift can be done under local anaesthesia and you will be able to return home right after the procedure. Bruising and swelling is limited to the area operated on and your recovery time will be shorter
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is an ideal candidate for this procedure?
Individuals who notice they have loose skin around the face and neck may be interested in this procedure.
How should I prepare for the surgery?
Prior to the surgery, you may need to stop taking blood thinning medication such as aspirin and ibuprofen, or other supplements. Do inform our surgeon if you are currently on such medication. Smoking and other forms of nicotine should also be avoided 4-6 weeks before surgery, as this can hinder the healing process. As you will be under general anaesthesia, you should also fast from food and liquids 6 hours before the procedure.
Are there any side effects associated with the surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with face and neck lift surgery. These include bleeding, infection and poor wound healing in the initial recovery period. Our surgeon will take all necessary precautions to reduce the risk of these complications. You can also minimize adverse reactions by following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments regularly.
Will this surgery leave scarring?
As incisions are made to adjust the shape of the face and neck, there will be some scarring after the surgery. However, these incisions will be placed in such a way that the resulting scars will be well hidden within the natural folds and lines of your skin. In certain cases, scars can also be hidden within the hairline. These scars will fade with time as your body heals. We will advise you on how to take care of the wound for proper healing and advise on scar management after.
How long does recovery take?
Bruising and swelling is expected after the surgery, as the body heals. This should last around 1-2 weeks, and most bruising and swelling should subside after 4 weeks. The final results should start to show within 1-3 months, and full healing is expected after 4-6 months.
What is needed for post-surgical care?
After surgery, you should allow your face to rest and avoid any strenuous activities to aid the healing process. Compression garments may be required after a full face lift to reduce the amount of swelling in the face. Medication will be provided by the clinic to help you manage any pain and swelling that may arise after the procedure.
Can I file an insurance claim for this procedure?
Face and neck lifts are usually done for cosmetic reasons. If the face/neck lift is done for medical reasons, our clinic will be able to assist you with direct insurance e-filing and Medisave claims.
Contact Us Today
Dr Ong is a fully accredited Singapore plastic surgeon. She currently practices at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery at Gleneagles Medical Centre, serving patients in all Parkway hospitals and Mount Alvernia Hospital. Under the competent and experienced hands of one of the best female plastic surgeons in Singapore, you can be assured of quality care and treatment.
