Face lift
Potential complications and risks of a face lift
All operations carry potential complications and risks, and your consultant will ensure you are fully aware of all these before you commit to surgery.
With all operations there can be problems with infection in the wounds and some scars become lumpy and may remain raised for up to 18 months. The risks of wound infection, delayed healing and loss of skin are very small.
Please remember that you will continue to age naturally following the operation, and you must expect that the face will become lined and will sag again over time.
Blood clots may form underneath the skin, and this may mean a second operation to remove the clot.
There is potential for damage to the nerve which supplies the muscles of the face, particularly where it runs over the jaw bone and the cheekbones. If this occurs it may leave you with some weakness of the forehead or at the corner of the mouth. This is usually temporary as it is unusual for the nerve to be cut, though it may be pulled upon.
There is also potential for damage to the nerve that supplies feeling to the bottom of the ear. If damaged, this is repaired and sensation usually returns within two years. The risk of these complications is very small.
Please remember that you will continue to age naturally following the operation, and you must expect that the face will become lined and will sag again over time. We do our utmost to achieve the best possible result for you, but this cannot be guaranteed. If further procedures are required, there may be additional fees.
All patients are advised not to take drugs containing aspirin, ibuprofen or gingko biloba for at least a week before their operation as these can cause bleeding. Smoking affects your skin blood vessels and makes both bleeding after the operation and the risk of skin dying more likely.
