Is it typical for there to be zero bruising or structural change for a facelift?

Question

Hi, I had a procedure about a year ago that I was told it was SMAS lift. I had stitches in front of them behind my ears. However, after swelling subsided, I noticed there wasn’t really any lifting and I didn’t have any bruising. I think it’s possible that this was more of a surface level lift is it typical for there to be zero bruising or structural change for a facelift?

Elie Ramly, MD · Answer

Although modern perioperative and operative techniques and meticulous technical execution should produce minimal to no bruising after any type of facelift, it is Not normal to have no visible structural change. The whole point of a facelift is to reposition the deeper tissues to recreate proportion and harmony and reverse the vectors of aging. This can be achieved through deep plane or advanced SMAS techniques. Without knowing the details of your case and your physical exam, as a general concept: if no change is seen at all postoperatively, this is not a normal expected outcome of facelift surgery, and it may mean that your procedure was practically more of a "mini-lift", skin-only procedure, or limited "SMAS" procedure where very minimal management or lifting of the SMAS layer was actually performed.
An in-person examination by a qualified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation and review of your operative report during consultation (if available) can clarify your diagnosis and what your specific revision options are (if desired) in order to help you achieve your goals safely and effectively.

Is it typical for there to be zero bruising or structural change for a facelift?

Answers (1)

More Facelift Revision Questions

I got a face and neck lift one year ago - is a revision an option? (Photo)

Down turned mouth after lip lift - options for correction? (Photos)

What is the best way to correct the dents when I smile, post deep plane face lift? (POST OP)

Cobra neck 5 years post lower face and neck lift - how invasive is it to fix?

Why do I have this mid cheek groove on one side after my facelift? Is this volume loss or do I need a revision? (Photos)

Dimple and crease - doctor offered revision of one cheek. What would you do about cheeks? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS