A facelift improves the visible signs of aging by removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles, and redraping the skin of the face and neck. In particular it can improve cheek folds, jowls, and sagging skin around the neck.

A face lift usually takes several hours and is usually done under local anesthetic. Incisions are usually made at the hairline. The procedure tightens underlying muscles and membranes, and may remove fat as well to improve the contour of the neck and chin.

Recovery usually takes one to two weeks to be back to normal activities. Some numbness in the skin is normal and it often takes several months to return to normal.

Potential side effects for facial surgery
As with all surgical procedures, there are certain side effects and restrictions following the procedure that you should be aware of, for example, you may have temporary bruising, swelling, soreness, numbness, and infection. Additionally, there may be lumpiness or asymmetry or scarring. With a face lift, there could be nerve injury that control facial muscles or feeling (temporary or permanent). There may be other risks associated with a particular type of surgery and the anesthesia used that you should discuss with your doctor to fully understand these risks.