Several less invasive techniques to perform facelift cosmetic surgery have evolved over the years, which make the procedure safer and more effective. However, like any other surgery, certain risks still remain inherent to facelift procedure.
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss various aspects of facelift surgery, and will also apprise the patient about its potential risks and complications. This will help the patient to make an informed choice. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman provides facelift to patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and surrounding locations.
Potential Risks
Some of the risks that are usually associated with facelift cosmetic surgery procedure include:
Poor Reaction to Anesthesia
General anesthesia in case of facelift will only be performed by an anesthesiologist or a qualified anesthetist nurse. They will determine the patient’s fitness for the procedure, and will remain present through the surgery to monitor the patient’s response. The surgeon will also perform a medical review to anticipate the risk of anesthesia and prepare appropriately for it.
Infection
The risk of infection to some extent is inevitable in any surgical procedure. However, the risk can be mitigated if the surgery center maintains robust standards of hygiene and sanitation. The patient will also receive post-operative care instructions from the surgeon to minimize infections during the early phase of recovery.
Fluid Accumulation
Excess fluid or blood accumulation below the skin in the incision areas can cause the risk of hematoma following facelift cosmetic surgery. Revision surgery may be required to correct severe cases of hematoma. Temporary drain tubes will be placed under the skin to reduce this risk.
Nerve Damage
In exceptional situations, a cut or a nick in a facial nerve may occur while the facelift surgery is being performed. This may lead to numbness or even partial facial paralysis. Although most patients will recover from it soon, a few patients may need corrective surgery. A conservative approach to facelift surgery can help to minimize this risk.
Unfavorable Scarring
Some amount of scarring cannot be avoided in a major surgery such as facelift. But an expert plastic surgeon will usually manage to camouflage most of the scars in inconspicuous locations or in natural facial creases.
In rare cases, if the incisions are not well hidden in the hairline or behind the ear, some scarring may become visible after the surgery. Dr. Kaufman receives patients from Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and other communities in this part of northern Ohio for a facelift.
Risk Reduction
The patient should ideally choose a board certified plastic surgeon for facelift in order to minimize risks. These surgeons will invest in the highest quality standards and best practices, adopt the latest techniques and technology, pursue continuing education, and follow current safety protocols.
The patient, on their part, should be prepared to disclose full required information to the surgeon and carefully adhere to their pre- and post-operative care instructions. A relationship of trust and open communication between the patient and the surgeon will help to minimize risk.
To learn more about cosmetic treatment and procedures or to schedule a consultation by Cleveland Ohio area plastic surgeon, Dr. Bram Kaufman, please contact us at 1-216-778-2245 or click here.