What is Involved in an Upper Facelift ?

Dr Michael Kernohan MBBS, MSc, BDS, MRCS, FDSRCS, FRCS(Plast), FRACS (Plast

Upper Facelift Surgery Sydney with Dr Kernohan

An upper facelift is a surgical procedure designed to revitalise the upper third of the face, including the forehead, eyebrows, and eye area. This advanced aesthetic intervention aims to address signs of ageing such as drooping brows, forehead wrinkles, and “frown lines” between the eyebrows, thereby creating a more refreshed and rested appearance. By repositioning the skin and underlying tissues, an upper facelift can provide a subtle lift.

Dr Michael Kernohan is a specialist plastic surgeon in Southwest Sydney. Find out more about what an upper facelift procedure involves, the range of recovery time, the benefits and risks of surgery.

Are You Ready for Surgery? Find Out

Benefits of Upper Facelift

Primarily, it can significantly reduce the appearance of deep creases across the forehead, lift heavy eyebrows, and diminish the look of tiredness around the eyes.

➔ Facial Aesthetics

  • Reduction of Forehead Wrinkles: By smoothing out the deep lines and creases on the forehead, an upper facelift can change the appearance of the skin, leading to a more refreshed look.
  • Elevated Eyebrows: Heavy eyebrows can contribute to a tired or aged appearance. An upper facelift can raise the position of the eyebrows to a more natural level.
  • Improved Eye Appearance: This procedure can help in reducing the lax skin on the upper eyelids, thereby opening up the eye area. It can make the eyes appear larger, more alert.

➔ Results Over Time

  • Durability: While non-surgical treatments may offer temporary solutions, an upper facelift provides more durable and longer lasting results. With proper care, the outcomes of the surgery can be maintained for many years.
  • Cost-effectiveness Over Time: Considering the possible longevity of its results, an upper facelift can be seen as a cost-effective investment, potentially reducing the need for frequent non-surgical interventions over time.

➔ Minimal Downtime Compared to other Facelift Procedures

  • Faster Recovery: Although recovery times can vary among patients, the upper facelift generally involves a shorter recovery period compared to more extensive facelift procedures. This allows patients to return to their daily routines and activities more swiftly.
  • Targeted Improvements with Less Invasiveness: Since the upper facelift focuses on specific areas of the face, it can offer targeted alterations with less overall invasiveness than a full facelift, which might be preferable for those seeking changes with minimal intervention.
Watch Dr Kernohan Explains How Old is Too Old for a Face Lift - YouTube Video Shorts
Watch Dr Kernohan Explains How Old is Too Old for a Face Lift – YouTube Video Shorts

Is Upper Facelift Right for Me?

Determining who is a good candidate for an upper facelift requires a nuanced understanding of both the physical signs of ageing that the procedure targets and the broader considerations that affect a person’s suitability for elective surgery.

  • Deep Forehead Wrinkles and Creases: People who have prominent lines across their forehead or between their eyebrows, which contribute to an aged or worried appearance, may benefit from an upper facelift.
  • Heavy Eyebrows: A common sign of ageing is the descent of the eyebrows, which can lead to a tired, sad, or angry appearance. Those who wish to elevate their brows are potential candidates.
  • Lax Upper Eyelids: Excess skin on the upper eyelids, which can sometimes impair vision, can also be addressed during an upper facelift, making those affected by this condition potential candidates.

➔ Physical Health and Lifestyle

  • Good Overall Health: Candidates should be in good physical health to reduce the risk of complications during surgery and to ensure a smooth recovery. This includes having no significant medical conditions that could impair healing or increase surgical risks.
  • Non-smokers or Willing to Quit: Smoking can significantly impact the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Ideal candidates are non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking well in advance of the surgery and throughout the recovery period.
  • Realistic Expectations: Understanding the potential outcomes and limitations of the procedure is paramount. Candidates should have a realistic perspective on what an upper facelift can achieve and the natural appearance it aims to restore.

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Before Your Upper Facelift

Below are key considerations and steps to follow before your surgery:

  • Discuss Goals: Clearly articulate your aesthetic goals and expectations with Dr Kernohan.
  • Medical History Review: Provide a complete medical history, including any previous surgeries, current medications, allergies, and any health conditions.
  • Physical Examination: Dr Kernohan will examine your face, focusing on the skin, bone structure, and the specific areas to be addressed.
  • Medication Adjustments: Dr Kernohan may advise you to stop taking certain medications or supplements that could increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and specific vitamins and herbal supplements.
  • Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, you’ll be asked to stop well in advance of the surgery to promote better healing.
  • Alcohol Restriction: Avoid alcohol for at least a week before your surgery, as it can exacerbate swelling and affect recovery.
  • Skin Preparation: Follow any specific skin care instructions given by Dr Kernohan, which may include using certain products to prepare your skin for surgery.
  • Fasting: You may be instructed to fast, usually starting at midnight before your surgery, especially if you’ll be under general anaesthesia.
  • Prepare Your Home: Set up a comfortable, restful space at home where you can recover without needing to move around too much. Include plenty of pillows to keep your head elevated.

The Upper Facelift Procedure

The upper facelift procedure, tailored to revitalise the upper third of the face, involves several detailed steps:

➔ Initial Preparation

  • Anaesthesia: To assist with comfort and a pain-free experience, the procedure usually starts with the administration of general anaesthesia or, in some cases, local anaesthesia with sedation.
  • Pre-operative Marking: Dr Kernohan may mark specific areas on your forehead and around your brows to guide incisions and highlight the regions requiring adjustment.

➔ Making the Incisions

  • Incision Location: Incisions are usually made within the hairline or, in some cases, directly above the eyebrows for patients with a high forehead. The incision approach is chosen based on individual goals and anatomy.
  • Limiting Visibility: Strategic placement of incisions in natural skin folds or the hair-bearing scalp may help conceal any potential scarring.

➔ Adjusting Tissues and Repositioning

  • Muscle and Tissue Adjustment: Dr Kernohan adjusts the underlying muscles and tissues. In some cases, portions of the muscles responsible for deep furrows or frown lines may be removed or altered to address the area.
  • Skin and Brow Lifting: Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is gently lifted to elevate the eyebrows and reduce forehead wrinkles. Dr Kernohan repositions the skin with the aim of achieving a natural appearance.

➔ Closing the Incisions

  • Sutures or Clips: The incisions are closed with sutures or skin clips, which are usually removed within a week or two after the surgery.
  • Dressing Applied: A dressing may be applied to the area to protect the incisions and help manage swelling.

➔ Monitoring and Recovery

  • Immediate Post-operative Care: After the procedure, you are taken to a recovery area where vital signs are monitored as the anaesthesia wears off. Patients typically return home the same day, but overnight stays can be required based on individual circumstances and the extent of the surgery.

➔ Special Techniques

  • Endoscopic Upper Facelift: In some cases, an endoscopic approach may be used. This technique involves smaller incisions and the use of an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) to view the structures underneath the skin. While this method can lead to less scarring and a potentially shorter recovery, it is only suitable for certain candidates.

Recovery after Upper Facelift

Recovery time varies among patients but generally includes a period of rest and limited activity to allow for healing. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common in the initial days following the procedure, but these symptoms will gradually diminish. Dr Kernohan will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for your incisions, when to resume normal activities, and any follow-up appointments. You can return to work and other daily activities within two weeks, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least a month.

Risks of Upper Facelift Procedure

Like any surgical procedure, an upper facelift carries certain risks. These may include complications related to anaesthesia, infection, bleeding, nerve injury, asymmetry, and unsatisfactory results requiring revision surgery.

How Much Is an Upper Facelift in Sydney?

The cost of an upper facelift in Sydney can vary widely depending on the surgeon’s expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and the facility where it is performed. Generally, prices can range from AUD 12,000 to AUD 20,000. It is important to note that this is a rough estimate, and the final cost may include your surgeon’s fees, anaesthesia, hospital or surgical facility costs, and follow-up care.

How Do I Find the Right Upper Facelift Surgeon in Sydney?

Finding the right surgeon for an upper facelift in Sydney involves researching and evaluating potential candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and reputation. Look for a surgeon who is certified in plastic surgery and has extensive experience in facial cosmetic procedures. Reviewing before-and-after photos of previous patients can give you insight into their aesthetic style. A thorough consultation will allow you to ask questions, discuss your goals, and assist you to feel comfortable and confident with your choice.

Questions to Ask During Your Consultation

When meeting with potential surgeons for your upper facelift, it’s important to have a set of questions ready so you cover all aspects of the procedure and your surgeon’s experience. Here are some essential questions you might consider:

➔ Certification and Experience:

  • Are you certified in plastic surgery?
  • How many years have you been performing upper facelifts?
  • How frequently do you perform this procedure?

➔ Procedure Details:

  • What technique will you use for my upper facelift?
  • Where will the surgery be performed, and what kind of anaesthesia will be used?
  • Can you walk me through the steps of the procedure?

➔ Expected Outcomes and Recovery:

  • What results can I realistically expect?
  • How long will the recovery period be, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
  • What are the potential risks and complications, and how are they handled?
  • Do you have before-and-after photos of patients who have had an upper facelift?
  • Can you show me examples of patients with similar facial structures or ageing concerns as mine?

➔ Cost and Financing:

  • What is the total cost of the procedure? What does this cost include?
  • Are there financing options available?

➔ Follow-up Care:

  • What does the follow-up care entail?
  • How are emergencies outside of office hours handled?

FAQs about Upper Facelift

FAQs

Further Reading about Facelift with Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Michael Kernohan

Medical References about Upper Facelift