What It’s Like to Get a Facelift

by Dr. Andrew Jacono

Back to all posts June 12, 2024

Deciding to get a facelift is a significant step. It’s a journey that can change how one feels about themselves and how others see them. But like any journey, it’s important to be prepared. Here, a facelift patient shares their experience to help others understand what to expect. Here’s what they wish they’d known before getting a facelift.

The Consultation: Starting the Journey

The journey begins with a facelift consultation. This is the chance to discuss goals, ask questions, and get a feel for the surgeon. This patient had their consultation with Dr. Jacono, a top facial plastic surgeon. His calm demeanor and thorough explanations put them at ease. For those considering a facelift, checking out the facelift reviews and mini facelift reviews on his website is recommended. Seeing five-star reviews from other patients can boost confidence.

Choosing the Right Type of Facelift

There are different types of facelifts. This patient opted for a deep plane facelift because it addresses deeper layers of the face, providing long-lasting results. There are also mini facelifts, which are less invasive and have a shorter recovery time. It’s essential to discuss with the surgeon which type suits best based on signs of aging and personal goals.

The Surgical Procedure: What to Expect

On the day of the facelift surgery, the patient felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The procedure itself was smooth. They were given local anesthesia, so they didn’t feel pain during the surgery. One common question is, “Are facelifts painful?” Most patients, including this one, experience minimal discomfort thanks to modern techniques and anesthesia.

Recovery: Expectations vs. Reality

Recovery was one of the patient’s biggest concerns. They read about swelling and bruising and wondered how bad it would be. Here’s a realistic look at what to expect during the healing process:

Days After Surgery: The first few days were the hardest. The face was swollen and bruised. It looked worse than it felt. Remembering that this is normal is important.
First Week: By the end of the first week, the swelling and bruising started to subside. Keeping the head elevated and applying cold compresses helped.
Two to Four Weeks: During this period, most of the bruising was gone. Swelling reduced significantly, but the face still didn’t look like its old self. Patience and following the surgeon’s advice are crucial.
Two to Three Months: The real results began to show. The face looked refreshed and natural. The healing process is gradual, but it’s worth it.

Managing Expectations

Managing expectations is crucial. A facelift doesn’t make someone look like a different person; it makes them look like a younger, more rested version of themselves. Checking out the before and after pictures in the photo gallery on Dr. Jacono’s website provides a realistic idea of what to expect.

Side Effects and Care

Every surgical procedure has side effects. Here are some common ones experienced by the patient:

Swelling and Bruising: This is unavoidable but temporary.
Tightness: The face felt tight for a few weeks. This sensation gradually faded.
Numbness: Some areas of the face were numb, which is normal and resolved over time.

To minimize side effects, following the surgeon’s pre-op and post-op care instructions closely is essential. Avoiding strenuous activities and protecting the skin from the sun are also important.

The Emotional Journey

Getting cosmetic surgery is not just a physical change; it’s an emotional journey too. Seeing the face transform was exciting, but there were moments of doubt and impatience. Having a support system and communicating with the surgeon about any concerns is crucial.

The Final Result

Seeing the final facelift result was incredibly rewarding. The sagging skin was gone, the jawline was defined, and the face looked years younger. It was everything hoped for. Remember, patience is key. The best results take time to develop.

Considering Additional Procedures

During the consultation, other cosmetic procedures like a brow lift were also discussed. Combining procedures can enhance overall results and maintain facial harmony. It’s best to talk to the surgeon about what’s best.

Reviews and Real Stories

Before deciding on their surgeon, the patient spent hours reading facelift reviews, mini facelift reviews, and deep plane facelift reviews. Hearing other patients’ stories helped set realistic expectations. It is recommended to visit the review page on Dr. Jacono’s website to read five-star reviews from happy patients.

Questions to Ask

Here are some helpful questions to ask during a consultation:

What type of facelift is best for me?
What can I expect during the recovery process?
What are the potential side effects?
Are there any additional procedures that could enhance my results?
Can I see before and after photos of your previous patients?

Final Thoughts

Getting a facelift was one of the best decisions the patient made for themselves. It boosted their confidence and made them feel more youthful. However, it’s important to be well-informed and have realistic expectations. The journey requires patience, but the results are worth it.

For those considering a facelift, this story aims to help understand what to expect. For more visual reviews, checking out the before and after pictures in the photo gallery and reading the five-star reviews on Dr. Jacono’s website is recommended. The key to a successful facelift is choosing a skilled surgeon and having a clear understanding of the process.