Cosmetic surgeons have traditionally performed multiple surgical procedures such as face lifting and eyelid (blepharoplasty) or brow lifting surgery at the same surgical setting.  I have added laser resurfacing to this group of surgeries as well because these surgeries in combination will allow a complete facial rejuvenation with only one recovery period.  It is important to realize that face lifting only reduces the sagging tissues.  The laser is necessary to revitalize the skin and reduce or in some cases remove the wrinkles completely.

Reasons For Considering Multiple Cosmetic Facial Surgical Procedures

 

       •  Only one recovery period.

       •  Less expensive than if performed separately.

       •  Reduction or elimination of wrinkling and aged appearance.

 

General Procedure

 

Depending upon the combination of procedures such as facelift in combination with laser resurfacing or eyelid or brow lift and laser resurfacing, the surgery may take between 3 to 5 hours.  The physician will discuss with you during your private office consultation which procedures would be necessary to achieve your best possible result.

 

Recovery Process

 

Generally, postoperative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time.  Some swelling will be noticed, however, most swelling will begin to disappear after a week.  Patients must refrain from smoking for several weeks before and after the surgery.  After a facelift, a light fluffy dressing is placed and will be removed the following day.  You may also wash your hair the day following surgery.  If you had eyelid or brow lift surgery, cool compresses are required.  Following laser resurfacing the skin healing process takes seven to ten days.  Specific skin care instructions are given by my office staff.  The facial skin must be well protected from the sun for the first year after the laser resurfacing while the skin adjusts to the healing process.  Patients sometimes report minor discomfort associated with the surgery.  This can be effectively treated with oral medications which we will prescribe.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize the risks of potential problems by carefully following the post surgical instructions given by the surgeon.