Lower face & neck lift—I wanted to avoid going under general anesthesia

I had been contemplating a lower face/neck lift for a few years and decided this was the year to do it. Dr. Athre was the 3rd doctor I interviewed. Almost immediately, I knew he was the one I wanted to perform my lower face/neck lift. I wanted to avoid going under general anesthesia (due to a few reasons...recovery and costs). Dr. Athre and Barbara didn’t sugarcoat anything...told me what to expect before, during, and after. I booked the procedure with some apprehension. A week prior to the surgery, I had to deal with my elderly mother. I almost rescheduled but told myself to keep the appointment and follow through with it, which I did. On March 18, 2021, my husband and I arrived at Dr. Athre’s office. I took the sedation medication (which took effect quickly), and surgery began. He numbed me up and started with my neck. That went quickly. Then, it was on to the right side of my lower face. That took the longest. I got a quick break. Dee (love her!) took me to the bathroom and gave me a drink of water, then we were on to the left side of my lower face. Believe it or not, I dozed a little bit during the last part...how? I don’t know with all the pulling, tugging, cutting. Anyway, it was finally over, and my husband took me home. That first night was the hardest because I was bandaged up. Barbara came to my house the next morning and took the bandages off, removed the small drains, and gave me instructions going forward. And, then the swelling/bruising kicked in. I looked pretty rough for the next 4-5 days. I had to sleep elevated and the stitches were uncomfortable as the days progressed. I went back in on day 5 to get my chin stitches out. At that appointment, Dr.Athre assessed everything (all good) and I got a deep tissue neck massage (which was intense) to work my neck muscles. I went yesterday (Mar. 31) to get the rest of the stitches and staples removed. Dr. Athre said I’m healing as expected. Today, it’s been exactly 2 weeks since my surgery. I’m pleased so far. It’s getting better and better each day. RS is only letting me post a few pics. Will post more as I can and as time goes by.

This pic was taken on April 3 2021. (I’m on the left.) I used to hate having pics taken of me. This one isn’t too bad and I can really see the improvement. Still some swelling and numbness, but overall happy with what I’m seeing.

It’s been 7 months and I need a neck revision. Scheduled for Nov. 11. Went for a post consult a few weeks ago. Dr. Athre told me to gain weight and everything would be OK. I think (hope) he was kidding. Trusting he’ll will make it right. So, I’ll reserve judgement until then.