What Types of Facial Plastic Surgery Are There?
There are several techniques that your board-certified plastic surgeon can use to correct the signs of aging, facial irregularities, and other concerns. The most commonly performed facial procedures include:
- Eyelid rejuvenation (blepharoplasty)
- Facelift
- Brow lift
- Rhinoplasty
- Otoplasty (ear pinning)
Depending on your desired outcome, you may be a good candidate for one or more of these procedures. Facial aging does not affect only one area, nor does it affect every area in the same way. Our accomplished surgeons plan each treatment plan according to the details of each patient's anatomy, lifestyle, and goals. In addition to surgical facial rejuvenation, we also perform minimally-invasive treatments including Accutite and Facetite. To learn more, contact our office at (585) 922-5840.
How is Facial Plastic Surgery Done?
Facial plastic surgery procedures are generally performed on an outpatient basis. You do not need to stay in the hospital overnight. After a short stay in the recovery area to fully awaken from your anesthesia, you will be able to go home to begin your recovery period. Each facial procedure follows its own unique steps to achieve the intended outcome. In a broader sense, though, facial plastic surgery works by manually repositioning and trimming tissue and skin as needed to restore a smoother, firmer, more lifted appearance. When you consult with us about facial rejuvenation or enhancement, your doctor will provide you with the details of each procedure they recommend. At that visit, you have the opportunity to ask questions and obtain the extent of information you need to feel confident in your decision.
Is Facial Plastic Surgery Painful?
All plastic surgery procedures are performed using appropriate anesthesia. Some procedures require only a local anesthetic or nerve block to prevent any discomfort during the surgery. Blepharoplasty is one example. The careful use of local anesthetic is often augmented by sedation, which may be administered intravenously. This combination allows you to rest comfortably and without any anxiety and also to recover quickly from the anesthesia. Some procedures, such as rhinoplasty, are performed using general anesthesia. This monitored sedation places you into a deep sleep state during which you have no awareness of your surroundings or body sensations.
After a facial plastic surgery procedure, it is normal to have some soreness, tenderness, tingling, numbness, and other sensations. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help you remain comfortable during your initial recovery period. You may need this medication for approximately one week, after which you can transition to an over-the-counter pain reliever. With proper rest and use of appropriate medication, you should not experience any significant pain after your facial plastic surgery.
Is Facial Plastic Surgery High Risk?
Plastic surgery is not considered major surgery because it focuses primarily on soft tissues, not bones or organs. Still, plastic surgery is surgery. Your doctor does make incisions and does place stitches or sutures to close your skin. This is inherently risky to some degree. The risks that are associated with facial plastic surgery procedures include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Seroma or hematoma
- Prolonged sensation changes
- Nerve damage
- Poor wound healing/scarring
- Poor aesthetic outcome
There are several ways that you and your doctor can work together to decrease surgical risks. Your doctor has various safety protocols that they follow during your procedure. On your end, you can reduce surgical risks by following your pre-surgical and post-surgical instructions regarding rest, nutrition, smoking avoidance, sun protection, and skin care. If you have questions about your surgical risks and how to maximize your facial plastic surgery outcome, please do not hesitate to talk to your doctor.
Can Plastic Surgery Completely Change Your Face?
Facial plastic surgery can alter a number of different nuances of your face. Altering the shape of your nose alone can have a profound impact on your facial appearance. By combining various procedures, the changes become more dramatic. That said, it is nearly impossible to completely change a person's face using plastic surgery. The amount of structural alteration that would be necessary is more than what most people wish to endure. You may see movie or soap opera storylines that involve a complete transformation and change in the identity of a character, but this is best left in the realm of fiction than in real life. Most people who seek plastic surgery do so because they want to bring out the very best in their natural facial characteristics, not disguise them. Your doctor is interested in knowing what your goals are and to what extent you would like your appearance to change from its current state. This way, they can discuss the possibilities from a place of clear understanding.
Schedule Your Consultation In Rochester, NY to see how we can help you look and feel your best!
Call (585) 922-5840 today to schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our talented doctors. We look forward to helping you reach your aesthetic goals!
