If you are considering a less invasive facelift, the MACS lift may be the best option for you.
MACS facelift, known as rhytidectomy, has evolved through the decade as a surgical procedure to lift the lower two-thirds of the face and neck as well as address wrinkles around the mouth and jowls.
The exact period for the recovery may vary depending on age and health status. However, knowing what to expect after your MACS facelift and adhering to your surgeon’s post-surgery care instructions can be a great help in your recovery.
MACS Facelift: The procedure
MACS facelift is carried out in our Dubai Healthcare City clinic under local anaesthesia with sedation. It is considered as a day surgery case where patients, accompanied by family or friends, can go home the same day. The surgery will take around 2 to 2.5 hours.
The first week is the most crucial recovery period. Make sure to follow the surgeon’s instructions to avoid complications like bleeding or infections.
Remember that in a MACS facelift, it gets worse before it gets better. You might be alarmed that your face is swollen and bruised; this is a normal reaction of the body to any type of surgery.
Day 1 – the first day
You will feel tired and maybe a little bit dizzy. Make sure you have a friend or family member help you out at home, especially during the first two days. A support face garment is worn for a week to help minimise swelling.
When at home, make sure to rest with your head propped up with a couple of pillows. An ice pack should be placed intermittently and as instructed by the surgeon. Some oozing on the wound is normal. However, profuse bleeding, a rare complication, is a concern. Apply pressure on the area and immediately inform the surgeon.
Day 2 –the first follow-up
If everything looks well and healthy, the area will be cleaned, and a new dressing is applied. You may already feel discomfort and tightness around the regions. Make sure to take pain killers, antibiotics and arnica (medication for bruising). Early ambulation is also advised to improve circulation and recovery.
Day 3-4 – the Most Intense Days
Bruising and swelling around the eyes and neck generally peak at this time. These side effects continue typically up to a few additional weeks. Make sure to rest well.
Day 5-7 – Getting Better; Getting There
During this time, you may start to feel slightly better. You will also see the swelling slowly goes down. However, you may also feel tightness and some numbness around the face, which is a normal occurrence.
Day 8-14 – Improving
There may still be swelling and light bruising at this time. Crusting on the wound is also present, make sure not to peel them off, it will just fall off on its own. The scars will start to itch, be sure not to scratch them.
You can apply light concealer or makeup once the stitches are removed on Day 10; however, do not use concealer on open wounds.
Day 15-30 – Feeling and looking better
You will generally feel and look better. During this time, you will see improvements on the facial contour. The scars will still look a bit reddish but will eventually fade and flatten. You can now start light activities such as walking.
Day 30 and beyond – back to normal
By this time, you will be back to your normal activities. Numbness may persist as it takes a few more months to all settle down.
Bear in mind that these are general expectations. The recovery and experience of each individual may vary. Patients who follow their surgeon’s post-surgery care treatments and those who take necessary precautions typically have the smoothest transition and recovery.
Here in Dubai, MACS FACELIFT is available at London Centre for Aesthetic Surgery located in Dubai Healthcare City.
Drs. Maurizio and Roberto Viel have over 25 years of experience in the field of cosmetic surgery industry and are known for their expertise in cosmetic treatments and surgeries.
To book an appointment, or consultation in Dubai at our LCAS Dubai Healthcare City Clinic, please contact 04-375 2393, WhatsApp +971 52 915 1461 or email gulf@LCAS.com
To book an appointment at our LCAS 15 Harley Street, London practice, please call +44 207 636 4272 or email info@LCAS.com