While there is no exact timeline on when to consider a facelift, the aging process does start earlier than you may think. The ideal candidates for facelift procedures are individuals showing signs of facial aging, generally men and women who have entered into their 40s or 50s. Even individuals in their 60s or 70s, who still have good skin elasticity, can be good candidates for a facelift. It has become a popular cosmetic procedure as everyone struggles with the natural process of aging and finding a solution to looking younger.
If you have questions about facelift aftercare and when you can wear makeup afterward, read on to learn more from award-winning and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery in Tucson, AZ.
What causes facial aging?
Before any candidate in Tucson, AZ considers this aesthetic procedure; they should be in good health, know what to expect with their facelift recovery, and consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Rao. Today’s facelift techniques offer more to patients by not only tightening loose skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles, but results are also more natural-looking and can last longer. Facial aging occurs mainly due to changes in the deeper soft tissues of the face and changes to the outer layer or epidermis. While some individuals experience the signs of facial aging earlier than others, certain factors can speed up the aging process, such as:
- Genetics
- Stress
- Ethnicity or skin type
- Sun exposure
- Excessive use of alcohol or smoking
- Routine skin care
- Excessive facial movement
What is a facelift?
A facelift procedure is performed by making incisions, loosening the facial skin, and then tightening the underlying deep connective tissue known as the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurosis System). Dr. Rao will tighten the SMAS layers to ensure more natural-looking, long-term results. While there are different facelift options, including a lower facelift, a mini facelift, and a full facelift, some women opt for only a neck lift. When facial injectables, like dermal fillers or BOTOX®, are no longer providing the desired outcome, a facelift may be the next step for facial rejuvenation. Patients can look years younger by reducing facial sagging, improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and having a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion.
When can I wear makeup after facelift surgery?
Recovery typically takes around two weeks, and most men and women in Tucson, AZ can resume regular activities after about four weeks. Most patients experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. In about 10 – 14 days, bruising will begin to fade. Female patients often inquire about when they can wear makeup after facelift surgery to cover up any visible bruising before venturing out into the public. Women should avoid using makeup and other skin care products for a few days, especially in the incision areas. Makeup and skin care products can quickly enter into incisions, increasing the risk of infection. Even applying pressure could cause an incision to reopen, delaying the healing process. It is generally advised to wait at least ten days post-op before applying makeup. After a patient is cleared to wear makeup, sunscreen should be worn daily as facial skin is susceptible to sunburn during the recovery period.
While no one can stop the aging process, a facelift can take years off your appearance. It has become a popular cosmetic procedure with men and women turning to this rejuvenating surgery to recapture their youth. Patients can enjoy their facelift results for five years, sometimes even ten, if not more, when certain precautions are taken afterward. Individuals should wear sunscreen, avoid direct sun exposure, eat a healthy diet, and use the right skin care products to maintain their facelift results. Several noninvasive treatments offered at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery can also complement facelift results after the recovery period is over.
If you live in Tucson, AZ, and struggle with facial aging like sagging skin and wrinkles, then considering a facelift may be your answer. If you are interested in options for facelift surgery, we invite you to contact our knowledgeable, caring, and bilingual team at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao to learn more about this life-changing procedure.
Tags
* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.
