It is possible to get a facelift twice, but it is not always recommended. A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that is designed to improve the appearance of the face by addressing issues such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and jowls. It can also restore a more youthful appearance. A secondary or revision facelift is a procedure that can be performed after a previous facelift to correct any issues or address any concerns that the patient may have with the initial results.
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It’s important to keep in mind that the face continues to age even after a facelift, and additional changes may occur. The goal of a secondary facelift is to address these changes and to improve the overall appearance of the face. However, as the skin and underlying structures continue to age, multiple facelifts may have diminishing returns and can lead to a less natural appearance.
Another important factor to consider is that with each facelift, the risk of complications increases, and recovery time may also be longer. It’s important to have realistic expectations and to understand that a secondary facelift is a more complex procedure than a primary facelift and may have more risks and recovery time.
What is a secondary facelift?
How is a revision facelift performed?
One common technique used in a revision facelift is the deep-plane facelift. This technique involves the surgeon making an incision in the hairline, typically similar to the incision made in a primary facelift, and then carefully lifting and repositioning the deep layers of the face. This allows the surgeon to address sagging skin, jowls, and other issues that may have developed since the initial facelift.
Another technique is the subperiosteal facelift, which is used to address issues in the mid-face. This technique involves making an incision in the upper gums and then lifting the skin and underlying structures of the mid-face to reposition them higher on the face. This can help to address issues such as sunken cheeks or a sagging brow.
In some cases, additional procedures such as a neck lift, eyelid surgery, or a brow lift may be performed in conjunction with a revision facelift in order to achieve the desired results.
It’s important to note that the recovery process for a revision facelift can be longer and more involved than for a primary facelift. The surgeon will provide detailed instructions for care after the surgery, and it is important for the patient to follow these instructions closely in order to promote healing and minimise the risk of complications.
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How will I know if I need a revision facelift?
- Unsatisfied with the results of the previous facelift: Some patients may find that their initial facelift did not meet their expectations, and they may be unhappy with the results. In such cases, a revision facelift can help to address any issues and achieve the desired outcome.
- Changes in the face due to ageing: The effects of ageing, such as skin laxity and loss of volume, can occur after a facelift. A revision facelift can help to address these changes and restore a more youthful appearance.
- Asymmetry: Asymmetry can occur after a facelift, and a revision facelift can help to correct this issue.
- Scarring: Scarring can occur after a facelift, and in some cases, the scarring may be more visible or noticeable than desired. A revision facelift can help to address this issue.
- Sagging skin or jowls: Sagging skin or jowls may develop after a facelift, and a revision facelift can help to address these issues.
It’s important to consult with a facelift surgeon who has experience in performing revision facelift surgeries. They will evaluate your case and determine if a revision facelift is appropriate for you. They will also be able to discuss the specific changes you would like to see in your face and what techniques can be used to achieve those changes.
It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that a revision facelift is a more complex procedure than a primary facelift and may have more risks and recovery time. Your surgeon will be able to provide you with more detailed information about the procedure and what you can expect before, during, and after the surgery.
How difficult is it to perform a revision facelift?
- Scar tissue: Scar tissue from the previous facelift can make it more challenging for the surgeon to work with the underlying structures of the face. This can also make it more difficult to achieve a natural-looking result.
- Changes in the face: The face can change over time due to ageing, weight fluctuations, or other factors. These changes can make it more difficult for the surgeon to achieve the desired outcome.
- Complexity: A revision facelift may involve a combination of different surgical techniques, and this can increase the complexity of the procedure.
- Risk of complications: The risk of complications is generally higher with a revision facelift than with a primary facelift. This may include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and other issues.
It is important to note that revision facelift surgeries require a high level of skill and experience from the surgeon. It’s essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has the experience and a good track record of performing revision facelift surgeries. They will be able to evaluate your case, discuss the specific changes you would like to see in your face, and determine the best approach to achieve those changes.
In summary, a revision facelift is a more complex procedure than a primary facelift, and it requires a high level of skill and experience from the surgeon. It’s important to have realistic expectations and to choose a qualified surgeon who can provide you with the best outcome possible.
Is a secondary facelift safe?
Like any surgical procedure, a secondary facelift carries certain risks and potential complications. However, with a skilled and experienced surgeon, the risks of a secondary facelift can be minimized.
- Anaesthesia risks: General anaesthesia is used for a facelift, and as with any surgery, there are risks associated with anaesthesia. Your anaesthetist should discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
- Bleeding and infection: These are potential complications of any surgery, including a facelift. Your surgeon will take precautions to minimise the risk of these complications.
- Nerve damage: There is a small risk of temporary or permanent nerve damage, which can result in changes in sensation in the face.
- Scarring: Scarring is a potential complication of any surgery. Your surgeon will make every effort to minimize scarring and to place incisions in inconspicuous locations.
- Asymmetry: Asymmetry can occur after a facelift, and a revision facelift can correct it.
- Unsatisfied with the results: Some patients may not be satisfied with the results of the revision facelift, and in some cases, additional revision surgeries may be needed.
It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that no surgery can stop the ageing process and no one can guarantee a perfect outcome. It’s important to choose an experienced plastic surgeon who has the experience and a good track record of performing revision facelift surgeries and of having a detailed discussion with them about the risks and potential complications of the surgery.
Revision facelift surgery at Centre for Surgery
Centre for Surgery is a specialist plastic surgery clinic renowned for its expertise in the full range of facelift procedures, including deep plane, facelifts, mini facelifts and revision facelifts. Although a facelift can reverse the signs of facial ageing, it cannot stop the ageing process, which means a second facelift may be required several years later to maintain the results of the initial procedure. Please book a consultation today by calling us on 0207 993 4849.
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