FACELIFTS FAQs

What are the risks and complications involved with having a facelift?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. However, having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the chances of complications. Some possible risks are nerve damage, asymmetry, poor scarring, and delayed wound healing. Dr. Weniger will fully present any risk possibilities to you during your consultation.

Who are the best candidates for a facelift?
The ideal candidate for a facelift is someone with sagging skin around the face and neck.

How long will my facelift last?
A facelift can take off 7 to 10 years. Some people have a single facelift and never need the procedure repeated. Others, however, decide to have more surgery in 15 years or so.

How can I hide the scars?
It is a good idea to let your hair grow a little bit longer than you would normally. This will help to hide the scars during the healing process. In addition, there are cosmetics available that are designed specifically to conceal and/or disguise the scars. Dr. Weniger will usually place the scars at the very edge of the hairline so that hair will eventually grow through the scar and help to camouflage it.

Can multiple procedures be done simultaneously?
Yes, including eyelid lifts, forehead and neck lifts.

Will I be able to be in the sun?
Sun protection (at least an SPF 15) should be used for the first six months after surgery. In addition, it is best to wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face. It is always a good idea to protect the skin from the damaging rays of the sun, and this can also preserve the facelift.

Is there such a thing as a scarless facelift?
Endoscopic surgery can be done with very small scars, and is usually used to lift the eyebrows, remove frown lines, and elevate the cheeks. But, if there is excess skin, it must be removed with standard facelift incisions. Most of the scars from a facelift, however, are barely noticeable, especially as time goes on and they fade. In addition, Dr. Weniger is able to treat most patients with a “mini-lift” which is a short-scar facelift which avoids scars in the obvious area behind the ear.