Question 1

What does a facelift consist of?

Accepted Answer

Each case may vary in terms of the placement and length of the incisions, the areas of the face to be improved, the use of complementary procedures (eyelid surgery, facial fat grafting, etc.), and the duration of the surgery. There are currently many techniques that differ in incision location and length, but typically, the incision starts in front of the sideburn and the hairline at the temples, extends along the natural creases in front of the ear, and continues around the earlobe. If the neck requires specific treatment, an additional incision is made just below the chin.

The procedure essentially involves tightening the muscular layers and the skin, repositioning the structures that have sagged over time, and removing excess tissue. Once completed, the wounds are closed with stitches, and small tubes or drains are temporarily placed under the skin to prevent fluid or blood buildup. Finally, a dressing is applied.

In the case of a mini facelift, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia and sedation, with shorter scars and minimal skin dissection. It aims to reposition mildly sagging skin and muscle with minimal invasiveness and a quicker recovery.

Question 2

Where is a facelift performed?

Accepted Answer

A facelift is performed in a medical center, usually on an outpatient basis without the need for hospitalization, under general anesthesia or sedation. In some cases, a hospital stay of one to two days may be required. Patients with diabetes or high blood pressure may need special care after surgery or during hospitalization.

Question 3

What type of anesthesia is needed for a facelift?

Accepted Answer

A facelift can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Your stay at the clinic will depend on the type of anesthesia used and the extent of the procedure. In some cases, it is done on an outpatient basis, although for more extensive surgeries, it is preferable to stay overnight.

Question 4

And what about after the facelift?

Accepted Answer

It is advisable not to work and to avoid strenuous activities or exercise for at least two weeks after the operation. The facial skin will require specific care, and you should avoid sun exposure or tanning beds for at least three months.

At first, you may feel concerned about the appearance of your face, but keep in mind that most patients return to normal life, including work, around two weeks after the surgery, depending on the case. During this time, swelling subsides and bruises fade. Scars may take a few more weeks to fade but will eventually become almost unnoticeable. During the first two weeks, rest as much as possible and allow your body time to recover. By the third week, your appearance will significantly improve, as will your mood. If returning to work is necessary, makeup can be used to cover any remaining bruises.

Question 5

What can I expect from a facelift?

Accepted Answer

The results of the facelift will not be immediately noticeable. It is important to be aware of this during the first few weeks. After the initial 2–3 weeks of swelling and bruising, you can usually resume your normal activities, using concealer or makeup if any bruising or discoloration persists.

The skin on the cheeks will remain redder and drier during the first few months, so proper hydration and sun protection (sunscreen) are necessary.

After several months, the scars will become imperceptible, hidden in the natural folds of your face (around the ears and earlobes) or within the hair. While the scars are still immature, they will require sun protection and massage to ensure proper healing.

A facelift does not “stop the clock” of aging, but it provides lasting results. Your face will continue to be affected by time and damaging factors (sun exposure, smoking, pollution), and you may wish to repeat the procedure after several years.

Question 6

Can a facelift be combined with another aesthetic procedure?

Accepted Answer

El lifting facial se suele asociar a otros procedimientos accesorios como la blefaroplastia (cirugía de párpados) o al lipofilling o lipoestructura facial (relleno de grasa facial)

Facelift

Before & After