5 Things you Need to Know About Facial Liposuction

1. Meant to Make You Look Younger

Facial liposuction is a plastic surgery technique that removes fatty deposits under the skin of the face and the neck. Removing the excess facial fat can make cheeks look less plump and can also get rid of a double chin, both features that can make you look older.

2. Decide if You're a Good Candidate

A good plastic surgeon will not perform facial liposuction on anyone with the money to pay for the procedure. You must be in good health and not have any pre-existing medical conditions or active diseases. It's also a good idea to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. You should discuss your expectations with the surgeon well before the facial liposuction is done. You must also be emotionally and mentally stable. Healing will not be as painful as more invasive plastic surgery procedures, but you will need patience to deal with the swelling and discomfort. Also, be aware that if you currently suffer from any minor mental or emotional problem, you may feel slightly depressed after the surgery. It's important to be monitored by a physician during this low period to make sure it doesn't develop into a more serious issue.

3. Meeting With the Plastic Surgeon

You'll meet with your chosen plastic surgeon twice before the facial liposuction is performed. The first meeting is the consultation where you'll discuss your goals with the surgeon, your anesthesia options and any concerns you may have. You'll also let the surgeon know your health background. The second appointment is the pre-operative meeting where details about the surgery will be discussed in more detail. You may be given medications to take after the procedure. You'll also get a pre-operative information packet that will tell you what you need to do to prepare for the surgery.

4. 1 Hour for a Less Flabby Face

Facial liposuction takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete. You'll first be attached to monitoring equipment so that the surgical team can keep an eye on your vital statistics. Then you'll be given your choice of anesthesia, and the anesthesiologist or surgeon will make sure you're properly sedated before the procedure begins. The surgeon will mark the fatty areas to be removed and scrub the area with Betadine. A 1- to 1 1/2 -inch long incision is made along the jaw line and a special vacuum to suck out the fat will be positioned in the incision. Some surgeons remove the fat manually.

5. Recovery and Risks

You should keep your head elevated for 7 to 14 days after surgery, and you may need to eat a restricted diet. Sutures are removed between 5 to 10 days after surgery. Be prepared for swelling and an uncomfortable tingling sensation for about 3 weeks. Risks with facial liposuction are minimal but include numbness, asymmetry, skin puckering, excess scar tissue and lumps, or an allergic reaction to the anesthetic.