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Manly, Northern Beaches Facial Rejuvenation

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Facelift after Weight Loss with dr turner

Massive weight loss is a significant achievement that brings numerous health benefits and enhances physical well-being. However, substantial weight reduction can often leave individuals with loose, sagging skin and a prematurely aged appearance, especially in the face.

Dr. Turner, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney, offers tailored facial rejuvenation procedures to help patients restore a balanced facial aesthetic after significant weight loss.

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Why Does Weight Loss Cause an Aged Appearance?

Extreme weight loss can significantly impact facial aesthetics due to:

  • Loss of Facial Volume: Fat that previously provided natural fullness is diminished, leading to a hollowed, gaunt appearance.
  • Skin Laxity: The skin loses elasticity as it stretches over time, and massive weight loss can result in loose, sagging skin that hangs or folds.
  • Reduced Collagen Production: Age-related declines in collagen and elastin are exacerbated by weight loss, creating deeper wrinkles and folds.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Facelift Surgery?

Suitable candidates for facelift surgery should meet the following criteria:

  • Physical Health: Be in good overall health with no underlying medical conditions that could interfere with the wound healing process.
  • Emotional Well-being: Have realistic expectations and a positive mindset regarding the outcomes of facelift surgery. As of 1st of July 2023, patients are required to have a psychological evaluation to ensure they are suitable to proceed with surgery.
  • Stable Weight: It is recommended to be near your target weight before undergoing the procedure. Dr Turner does not perform facelift surgery on patients with a body mass index (BMI) > 30.
  • Non-smoker: Smoking or vaping dramatically interferes with the healing process and increases the risk of complications. Therefore, candidates are required to cease smoking for a minimum 6 weeks before surgery.

Options for Facial Rejuvenation After Weight Loss

There are several treatment options to rejuvenate the face after weight loss. These range from non-invasive treatments to advanced surgical procedures.

Non-Surgical Options

Non-surgical treatments are ideal for younger individuals with mild concerns related to facial ageing due to weight loss. These options include:

  • Cosmetic Injectables: Used to restore lost volume in areas such as the cheeks, under the eyes, and around the mouth.
  • Skin Tightening: Technologies like radiofrequency and ultrasound aim to stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness.
  • Thread Lifts: Absorbable threads are used to lift sagging skin temporarily. However, results are subtle and may not address severe skin laxity.

Surgical Options

For more pronounced sagging or volume loss, surgical interventions provide long-lasting, dramatic results. Procedures include:

Facelift

  • Addresses sagging skin in the mid-face, jawline, and neck.
  • Removes excess skin while tightening the underlying muscles.
  • Restores youthful facial contours and smooths wrinkles.

Neck Lift

  • Targets loose skin and vertical bands in the neck area.
  • Creates a defined jawline and eliminates “turkey neck.”

Facial Fat Grafting

  • Involves harvesting fat from another area of the body and injecting it into the face to restore volume.
  • Provides a natural look and feel, complementing other rejuvenation procedures.

Brow Lift

  • Corrects drooping brows and reduces forehead wrinkles.
  • Opens up the eye area for a more refreshed appearance.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

  • Removes excess skin and fat from the upper or lower eyelids.
  • Addresses puffiness and sagging, enhancing the eyes’ appearance.

Facelift Surgery: What to Expect

Facelift surgery is always performed under general anaesthesia in a fully accredited hospital with the assistance of a qualified anaesthetist. Depending on the complexity of the procedure it generally takes 4 hours and Dr Turner recommends an overnight hospital stay to ensure optimal post-operative care before discharge.

Surgical Planning and Preparation

  • Incision Marking: The procedure begins with precise marking of incision locations along the hairline, around the ears, and under the chin. Dr. Turner also marks the deep plane entry points, areas of facial volume loss to be corrected with fat transfer, and important anatomical landmarks, such as the frontal nerve, ensuring safety and accuracy.
  • Local Anaesthetic Infiltration: A local anaesthetic is administered to the areas being dissected. This step minimizes bleeding during the procedure and reduces discomfort during the initial recovery phase.

Surgical Technique

  • Incision and Dissection: Incisions are made along the marked locations. The skin and subcutaneous tissues are elevated to expose the deep plane entry point, preparing the area for precise dissection.
  • Deep Plane Dissection: Dr Turner dissects beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) within specific facial spaces. The SMAS, skin, and subcutaneous tissues are elevated together as a composite flap, allowing for greater correction of sagging and facial contouring. Retaining ligaments, which contribute to skin laxity, are carefully released to facilitate repositioning.
  • SMAS Repositioning: The SMAS layer is lifted and repositioned vertically, addressing midface and jowl laxity. This technique provides a more natural appearance by correcting the deep structural changes caused by weight loss.

Neck Rejuvenation

The neck is frequently addressed during the deep plane facelift to ensure a seamless transition between the face and neck:

  • Liposuction: Excess fat deposits in the neck are removed to enhance contour.
  • Platysmaplasty: A formal neck lift is performed to correct deep neck laxity and improve the definition of the jawline.

Fat Transfer for Volume Restoration

Significant weight loss often results in volume depletion in areas like the cheeks, temples, and under the eyes. Fat transfer, performed in conjunction with the facelift, restores this lost volume. The addition of fat transfer enhances the overall results, especially for patients experiencing pronounced volume loss.

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Specialist plastic surgeon

Dr Scott J turner

Dr Turner FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons – Plastic Surgery) is a Sydney Plastic Surgeon with clinics in the Eastern Suburbs at Bondi Junction and Northern Beaches at Manly.

Dr Scott J Turner has over a decade of experience in private practice solely focused on performing cosmetic surgery.

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Dr Scott J Turner Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Recovery After Facelift Surgery?

Recovering from facelift surgery after significant weight loss involves several stages and requires strict adherence to Dr Turner’s post-operative instructions to ensure safe healing and optimal results.

  • Rest & Elevation

Rest is crucial in the initial recovery period. For the first two weeks, it’s essential to keep your head elevated at all times, including during sleep, to minimize swelling. Avoid lying flat or bending forward during this phase to reduce pressure on the healing tissues.

  • Post-Operative Dressings

Dressings are applied to protect the incisions and support the facial tissues. These will typically be adjusted or removed during your first follow-up appointment with Dr Turner.

  • Surgical Drains

In some cases, surgical drains may be used to prevent fluid accumulation. These are typically removed within the first few days after surgery, often before you leave the hospital.

  • Compression Garments

A facial compression garment may be recommended to reduce swelling and provide support to the healing tissues. This garment should be worn as instructed, usually at night for the first six weeks.

  • Incision Care

Proper care of incision sites is critical to prevent infection and ensure optimal healing. Dr Turner will provide guidance on cleaning and dressing the incisions. Scar management techniques, such as silicone gel, may be recommended to minimize visible scarring over time.

  • Medications

You will be prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection and pain medication to manage discomfort during the first week of recovery. Any additional medications or supplements should only be taken after consulting Dr Turner.

  • Swelling and Bruising

Bruising and swelling are normal and will peak within the first few days’ post-surgery. These effects gradually subside over two to four weeks. Using cold compresses, as advised, can help alleviate discomfort and swelling.

  • Normal Activities & Exercise

Light activities such as walking can be resumed within a few days to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Gradual return to normal routines, including work, is typically possible after two to three weeks.

  • Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor your healing progress. Appointments are usually scheduled at one week, one month, three months, six months, and one year post-surgery.

By closely following these recovery guidelines, you can maximize the success of your facelift surgery and achieve long-lasting, rejuvenated facial contours after weight loss.

Risks and Complications

Facelift surgery is a powerful tool to address the signs of aging and restore facial contours, especially after significant weight loss. However, it is essential for patients to understand the potential risks and complications involved. Being well-informed not only helps in making an educated decision but also ensures a smoother surgical journey.

It’s essential to fully understand these risks, which will be discussed in detail during your consultation with Dr. Turner.

Common Risks and Complications

  • Bruising and Swelling
    Post-operative bruising and swelling are typical and generally subside within a few weeks. These temporary effects are part of the natural healing process.
  • Numbness
    Temporary numbness in certain areas of the face may occur due to nerve involvement during surgery. Sensation typically returns as healing progresses.
  • Infection
    Although rare, infections can develop if post-operative care guidelines are not followed. Prompt medical attention ensures effective treatment if an infection occurs.
  • Hematoma and Bleeding
    Hematomas, or localized collections of blood under the skin, are uncommon but may require surgical drainage. Careful monitoring and proper surgical technique minimize this risk.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
    Though extremely rare, blood clots (DVT) or clots traveling to the lungs (PE) are serious complications. Precautionary measures, such as early mobilization help mitigate this risk.
  • Anaesthesia-Related Complications
    General anaesthesia is a vital part of facelift surgery but carries risks, including allergic reactions or respiratory issues.
  • Unsatisfactory Results
    Despite meticulous planning, some patients may feel their results do not fully meet their expectations. Factors such as natural aging, skin elasticity, or individual healing responses can influence the outcome. In some cases, revision surgery may be required to refine the results.

Specific Risks and Complications

  • Facial Asymmetry
    Asymmetry, where one side of the face heals differently than the other, can occur post-surgery. Although mild differences are natural, significant asymmetry may require revision surgery for optimal results.
  • Seroma (Fluid Accumulation)
    Fluid buildup under the skin, known as seroma, can develop after surgery. It may require drainage to prevent infection or discomfort.
  • Sialocele (Salivary Leak)
    Rarely, a saliva leak may develop post-surgery, particularly in patients with thin subcutaneous tissue. This condition usually resolves with time but may require drainage in some cases.
  • Changes in Skin Sensation
    Temporary changes in sensation, such as numbness or tingling, are common and usually improve over time. Rarely, permanent changes in sensation may occur.
  • Fat Necrosis
    Fat necrosis, or the breakdown of fat cells, may result in lumps or irregularities under the skin. This is more likely in cases involving significant tissue repositioning or large-volume fat grafting.
  • Nerve Damage
    Nerve injury is a rare but serious complication. Temporary facial weakness or numbness is more common and typically resolves during recovery. Permanent nerve damage, resulting in lasting muscle weakness, is very rare.
  • Delayed Healing
    Factors such as smoking, certain medical conditions, or poor post-operative care may delay healing. This can extend the recovery period and increase the risk of complications.
  • Scarring and Skin Irregularities
    While facelift incisions are carefully placed to minimize visible scarring, some patients may develop prominent scars, such as hypertrophic or keloid scars. Skin dimpling or puckering may also occur during the healing process.

It’s important to approach surgery with a clear understanding of these risks and realistic expectations for the outcome. Dr Turner and his team are committed to providing comprehensive pre-operative education and post-operative care to minimize complications and support a smooth recovery.

Costs of Facelift Surgery in Sydney

The cost of facelift surgery in Sydney, Australia varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatments are combined. Factors influencing the price include:

  • Surgeon’s Fees: Based on experience and expertise.
  • Hospital Costs: Including anaesthesia and facility fees.
  • Procedure Type: Deep plane, neck lift, vertical restore
  • Additional Procedures: Brow Lift, Blepharoplasty, Lip Lift
  • On average, the total cost for FDL abdominoplasty surgery in Sydney can range between $20,000 and $45,000.

On average, the total cost for face and neck lift surgery in Sydney can range between $25,000 and $65,000.

Dr Turner’s fees:

Standard Face and Neck Lift (Deep Plane Facelift)

  • Cost: $32,000 – this includes the surgeon’s fees, hospital fees, anaesthesia fees and all follow up visits.

Vertical Restore Facelift

  • Cost: $40,000 – this includes the surgeon’s fees, hospital fees, anaesthesia fees and all follow up visits.

A formal quote will be provided after your consultation with Dr Turner that gives a better estimate of costs involved in your planned procedure.

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Dr Scott J Turner Specialist Plastic Surgeon “We are equally as passionate about cosmetic plastic surgery as we are about you and your experience with us. We are here to listen, educate, and support you throughout your cosmetic surgical journey.”

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1300 437 758

Manly Clinic

Suite 504, Level 5 39 East Esplanade
Manly NSW 2095

Bondi Junction Clinic

Suite 1902, Level 19 Westfield Tower 2 101 Grafton Street
Bondi Junction NSW 2022