The pursuit of lost harmony over time is the primary goal of surgical facial rejuvenation. Facial aging is influenced by factors such as severity, skin type, damage caused by sun exposure, genetic factors, unhealthy life, etc.

These factors cause a number of changes in the facial anatomy characteristic of aging such as loss and redistribution of fat, muscle atrophy in some areas and hypertrophy in others, bone resorption, tissue sagging, skin thinning and wrinkling.

The surgical objective is to obtain natural results without distortion of the facial anatomical structures, with incisions as visible as possible, and that these results are long-lasting, therefore we will treat the facial features that betray the passage of time, especially when they cause discomfort And insecurity, lack of identification or rejection of one's own image, or emotional and social difficulties. The main indications for surgery are:

• Disappearance of the angle of the jaw

• Fall and flaccidness of the cheek

• Excess skin

• Neck: sagging, fat accumulation (jowl) and appearance of bands of the platysma muscle

The surgical act is based on repositioning the superficial and deep tissues of the face by stretching and remodeling, as well as the removal of excess fatty tissue commonly on the jowls and the replacement of facial volumes, basically on the cheekbones. This procedure is performed under anesthesiologist-controlled intravenous sedation and complete monitoring.

It is vital to carry out a previous evaluation of each patient to carry out the correct treatment of each case. This surgery requires thoroughness and extreme attention to the smallest details. It should be understood that with the operation the skin is lifted and detached along with a layer of fat through which the vessels that feed this flap circulate, and that this circulation is compromised in the cases of smokers, diabetics, arteriosclerotics, etc. So we must have precautions and limitations in these cases. It is always better not to operate than to risk a complication.

Prior to surgery, the patient must clearly understand the scope and limitations of surgery and have real expectations. You should know your post-surgical obligations and what is expected of him or her during recovery.

At this stage, the patient should maintain rest, sleep with the head high, hydrate well, avoid the sun and take the indicated medications. Anti-inflammatory therapy with ultrasound or lymphatic drainage is recommended to accelerate recovery. During the first three weeks, continuous medical follow-up is carried out to ensure a perfect evolution. Given the importance of face exposure for the human being, this surgery is of vital importance and produces a high degree of satisfaction for both patients and us surgeons. It implies the greatest act of confidence that we can deposit and we must accept it with the highest standards of competence and responsibility.

BEFORE SURGERY 

• The night before dinner had something light. Do not ingest anything from 12:00 p.m.

• Do not take aspirin for at least two weeks before surgery.

• Supplements such as Omega3, Ginkgo Biloba, Vitamin E (over 800 mg.) Should be discontinued at least five days before operating.

• Do not smoke 15 days before and after surgery.

• You should list all the drugs or supplements you use.

• Notify if you have had an allergic reaction to any medication.

• If you suspect that you may be pregnant, it is important to perform a pregnancy test before proceeding with the operation.

• Laboratory tests and cardiovascular evaluation will be done to all patients normally one or two days before the intervention in our clinic.

THE DAY OF THE SURGERY

• Coming in total fast for at least 8 hours (including water).

• You must make the deposit before your ingress.

• Si presenta algunos síntomas como tos, congestión, males  tar o nerviosismo exagerado deberá notificarlo.

• Venir sin maquillaje y uñas sin pintar.

• Procure no traer prendas ni objetos de valor.

• Bring comfortable clothes and sleeping pajamas, as well as your personal items.

• You should bring a tissue to cover your head and sunglasses for when you leave the clinic.

• It is important to come along with someone you trust who can accompany you, even to sleep.

• Fill in the internment forms, read it and sign the medical consent for the operation. If you have any doubts before signing we are ready to clarify them.

• Before the surgery we take the preoperative photos and review the surgical goals to clear any last questions you have before the intervention.

• Finally you will have the consultation with the anesthesiologist who will talk everything about your health and medical history. You will then take one tablet of a sleep inducer to start your sedation.

• At the end of the surgery, the patient will spend some time in the recovery room, then will be moved to his room.

• You can drink fluids and food after the effect of anesthesia. About three hours.

• Usually waking up is gentle and pleasant but you may feel strained, difficult to move your lips and raise your eyebrows for a few hours.

• You will have an elastic bandage that covers the entire face except the eyes, nose and mouth. Because of the placement of the drain behind the ear stains of blood could be present. The bandages will be changed if necessary.

• When eyelid surgery is performed concomitantly, a cold compress will be placed on the eyelids and the nurse will change several times during the afternoon and evening.

POSTOPERATORY CARE

• Take antibiotics for six days after surgery.

• Although the surgery is usually not painful, you may feel tingling, tightness, swelling, if necessary, you can take some analgesic indicated by us.

• Sleep with your head elevated (about three pillows). It is normal for asymmetries to appear on the face, eyes, or neck due to sleeping position and differences in lymphatic and venous drainage. Try to sleep with your head upright without bending your neck or sideways or down.

• A rolled up towel placed on the neck and secured by a handkerchief may be suitable.

• Wash the hair with neutral shampoo and then dry the wounds well with cold air from the second postoperative day.

• Recomendamos ultrasonido para ayudar en el proceso desinflamatorio iniciando a los seis días de la operación. Puede ser conveniente también realizar masajes de drenaje linfático.

• We recommend ultrasound to help in the process of starting the inflammation six days after the operation. It may also be convenient to perform lymphatic drainage massages.

• Hair dye may be applied four weeks after the procedure.

• Removal of the suture is done in our consulting room between 7 and 12 days after surgery.

• Carry a diet rich in proteins and vitamins and good hydration. Hard foods that require effort when chewing should be avoided.

• Avoid the sun until the bruises completely disappear (about six weeks).

• You can exercise after a month, starting with walks and increasing progressively.

• Do not focus on the small details but on the overall improvement. Avoid mirrors as they will look strange and may increase your restlessness. Do not worry, your appearance is transient and will improve day by day.

• Finally, know that the result must be natural and should not leave stigmas that denounce the passage through the operating room. A facelift rejuvenates but will not modify the face or the expression.