Face-Lifts: Learn More About The Procedure!

Face-lifts aren’t what they used to be. Years ago, the procedure consisted of merely tightening the skin. Today, however, they involve so much more, including repositioning skin, fat, and muscle for a more youthful, natural appearance. Usually, the people seeking out face-lifts are those who have begun to show signs of aging around their face, whether with droopy cheeks, wrinkles, and baggy skin near the neck or chin. Because of this, most face-lift patients tend to be between forty and seventy-years-old

Face-Lifts: Pre-Surgery Consultation

If you’re interested in a face-lift and want to move forward, the first thing to do is to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During your consultation, you and your surgeon will discuss your goals, why you want a face-lift, your medical history, current health, and any medications you may be taking. From there, your surgeon will examine your face and run through your options. At the end of your consultation, your doctor may also discuss topics such as costs and risks

Face-Lifts: Preparing for the Procedure

Prior to your procedure, there are a few things your doctor may instruct you to do to prepare. For example, if you’re a smoker or take certain supplements or vitamins, you should stop taking them in the days or even weeks leading up to your face-lift. Additionally, make plans to have someone stay with you for at least two days after the procedure to help you manage your home and rest. It’s also a good idea to arrange a recovery area in your home ahead of time where you can rest without having to go too far from your bed or couch when you need something. Consider placing ice packs in your freezer for your swollen skin, and arranging ointments, creams, a thermometer, and other items on your bed stand or coffee table so they’re easily on hand while your recover and rest.

Additionally, make arrangements with your job ahead of time by taking at least two to three weeks off work.

Face-Lifts: During the Procedure

During your face-lift procedure, your plastic surgeon will make incisions at the temple near your hairline and continue behind your ear. The incisions will allow your surgeon to access the tissues and muscles beneath your skin. Overall, most procedures take between two and six hours, depending on how extensive your face-lift is. Once complete, your surgeon will stitch and bandage your face and give you care instructions for when you’re recovering at home. It’s important to follow every instruction just as your surgeon lists them.

Does Insurance Cover a Face-Lift?

Because face-lifts are cosmetic procedures, most health insurance companies won’t cover the cost of your face-lift unless it’s medically necessary. That said, you should plan on paying the entire cost out of pocket yourself. To get a better idea of what you may have to pay for, consult with your doctor ahead of time for estimates on any anesthesia you may receive during the procedure, operating and recovery room costs, follow-up care costs, and any prescriptions you may receive after the procedure.

It’s also important to consult with your health insurance company to see how a face-lift will affect your coverage. For example, some insurance companies raise premiums after you undergo a cosmetic surgery. If you don’t like the sounds of any changes to your policy that may take place after your procedure, consider signing up for a supplemental insurance policy.