Face Lift Surgery
A face lift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery techniques that tightens the skin and muscles and therefore reduce fine lines, wrinkles and the effects of aging. The surgery aims to give a more youthful appearance and to some extent reverse the signs of aging.

Face lift procedure
Face lift surgery is usually carried out under a general anaesthetic and can take up to two hours. The surgeon may use a variety of techniques such as endoscopic surgery and sometimes only a partial face lift will be required. Traditionally with a full face lift, the surgeon will make an incision right around the hairline and then separate the skin from the underlying muscles of the face. Excess skin are removed and fat and muscles are tightened.

After surgery
After face lift surgery you should be able to leave the hospital after 1-2 days. You will be required to take at least one week off work and strenuous activity must be avoided for approximately three weeks. Your face will be swollen for a number of days nd you may experience numbness or mild pain. You may need to sleep in an elevated position for several days. The effects of a face lift are not permanent but should last for approximately 10 years.

Face lift risks and side effects
Face lift risk, side effects and complications include infection, hematoma, problems with wound healing, and fluid build up. There is a small risk of permanent scarring in the facial area, and as the hairline recedes with age surgery scars may become visible. Facelift patients may also experience temporary hair loss around the incision site as well as numbness and muscle weakness in the face.

Face lift surgery cost
The price of a face lift in the UK is anything from around £4000 - £10000, depending on the clinic used. If you choose t have a face lift abroad you can save several thousand pounds. For example a face lift in Belgium will cost somewhere in the region of £3000.

Face lift - NHS, private or abroad
Face lift surgery is not available on the NHS because the operation is cosmetic rather than clinical. However, facelifts are available at many private cosmetics surgery clinics both in the UK and abroad.

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