The results of a forma facelift are more significant and longer-lasting than those that can be achieved with a non-invasive procedure, however, the trade-off is that there will be a longer recovery period. At Veda Medical in Live Oak, TX, Dr. Pradeep Mohan expertly performs this popular surgery with the goal of achieving beautiful results in the shortest recovery timeframe possible.
What to Expect When Undergoing a Forma Facelift
Having facial cosmetic surgery is a big decision but one that can have very rewarding results. The biggest concern that many patients have is how much downtime will be required following the procedure. Generally, most patients will require about two weeks of rest before they can return to normal daily activities, and at least four weeks before they can resume more intense physical activity.
Before you go home after your procedure, medication will be prescribed to relieve any tenderness. The most important thing to do after surgery is to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and ensure that you are following the doctor’s instructions for post-operative care.
Week One Post-Op
When you wake up after surgery, you will feel very sleepy and will definitely need help getting home. Hopefully, you also have someone at home who can help you for the first couple of days after your procedure. Be careful to take your medication exactly as directed and follow any other instructions the doctor may have given you.
The incisions and bandages must be kept dry, so it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions about bathing and washing. You will be sent home with a list of specific directions for what you should and should not do in the days following surgery. Paying close attention to these instructions will go a long way towards keeping your recovery time as short as possible.
Week Two Post-Op
By the second week, you will be starting to feel much more like your normal self and will be getting your energy back. Most patients no longer need to take medication at this point. It is important not to overdo it even though you might be feeling better — you are still recovering and don’t want to experience any setbacks.
You may feel some numbness or stiffness around your face or neck – this is normal and should gradually disappear in the weeks ahead. At some point during week two, or sometimes even at the end of week one, your sutures will be removed.
Weeks Three and Four Post-Op
This is when patients often begin to see a significant improvement in their face. Everything should be healing up nicely at this point and the more youthful contour of your face will be evident. You will likely feel much more comfortable going out in public, and can resume exercising.
The incision sites should have faded to a light pink color at this point. Incisions are made in spots that are not readily noticeable to others, so you don’t need to worry about having obvious scars. It is important to continue using any ointment or cream your doctor has recommended to speed healing at the incision sites.
After the First Month
Life should be back to normal at this point, and your scars should be less and less visible with each passing day. You will be fully enjoying your lifted, tighter, and more youthful appearance. While you will certainly look younger and more refreshed at this point, you will likely continue to see improvements over the months that follow, with the final result apparent in about three months.
What to Expect in the Long Term
While a forma facelift can produce remarkable anti-aging results, it is important to have realistic expectations for what this type of procedure can do for you. It will not dramatically alter your appearance, nor will it halt the aging process. Taking meticulous care of your skin moving forward will be very helpful in maintaining your results.
Will There be Permanent Scarring?
A skilled surgeon will be able to use the most advanced incision and suturing methods to ensure that you are not left with noticeable scarring. Dr. Mohan makes each incision in an inconspicuous location, such as behind the ears or hairline. Within 12 to 18 months, any scarring will have faded considerably. Eventually, there will only be a very thin white line that will be barely perceptible.
How Long Do Results Last?
There are several factors that can influence how long your new, youthful appearance will last. The technique employed by the surgeon, the quality of the patient’s skin, and the patient’s lifestyle habits following surgery will all impact the long-term results.
You can realistically expect to still look very good at the 10-year mark. Yes, your skin will continue to age as soon as your initial recovery is over, however many patients find that they still look younger years after surgery than they did before the procedure itself. While we sometimes have repeat patients who eventually want to have another procedure, there are also many who find that one well-timed forma facelift is sufficient.
How To Maximize Results
Not all facelifts are created equal, which is why it’s important to do your homework and make sure you are working with a very skilled plastic surgeon. Choosing the right doctor is your best bet for ensuring a positive outcome with long-lasting results.
The second most important thing you can do to ensure positive results that will last for years is to stay in a healthy lifestyle routine. This means not smoking, not drinking alcohol to excess, avoiding the sun, and eating a balanced diet. Using high-quality skin care products is also important.
Is There an Ideal Age for this Procedure?
We all eventually notice the signs of aging, but the exact age at which this occurs can vary widely. Sun exposure, lifestyle habits, genetics, and one’s environment can all add up to premature aging, sometimes even as early as a person’s 30s. Cosmetic facial surgery should of course wait until there are noticeable signs of aging, but it should not be postponed so long that the patient no longer has adequate skin elasticity.
While most patients seeking a forma facelift tend to be in the 50-to-70-year age range, this is a highly personal decision that can depend on a variety of factors. During your consultation, we will evaluate your health and the condition of your skin to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure. More mature patients may find that they would benefit from having other procedures, such as eyelid surgery or a brow lift, performed at the same time for a more balanced look.
Best Candidates for Facial Cosmetic Surgery
If you are in good health, are a non-smoker, and have reasonable expectations for what facial cosmetic surgery can do for you, then you are likely a good candidate for this type of procedure. While younger patients (that is, patients under age 65) tend to have the best results, we have also seen very good outcomes with older patients who still have some remaining skin elasticity.
If you fit this description and have any of the following signs of aging, then you may wish to consider this procedure:
- Loss of definition around the jawline
- Wrinkles around the eyes
- Sagging cheeks
- Deep “marionette” lines around the nose and mouth
- Excess fat or loose skin on the neck
Choosing the Right Lift for You
There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to lifting the face. During your consultation, Dr. Mohan will discuss whether you need a traditional forma facelift, which targets both the mid-face and neck, or a “mini” facelift, which uses fewer incisions and only focuses on the lower face. Some patients might benefit from also scheduling an eyelid lift and/or brow lift at the same time.
Is Facial Cosmetic Surgery Safe?
The overwhelming majority of patients have positive results with no complications during surgery or throughout the recovery process. We do, however, ask that patients be upfront about their medical status during their consultation. Dr. Mohan will not be able to operate on patients who have active health problems or who are on certain medications, such as blood thinners.
Book a Consultation with the Best Plastic Surgeon in Texas
If you are considering turning back the clock on your appearance, contact us today at Veda Medical in Live Oak, TX. We would be pleased to set up a meeting to discuss your goals and options.
