Possible Complications

Written by: Dr Kristie McNealy                                      Reviewed 28 June 2010

Nerve Damage

During the operation small sensory nerves to the facial skin are divided, so there will invariably be some numbness. Sometimes this is localized to a small area in front of the ears, but there may be diminished sensation over a wider area of the cheeks, behind the ears and occasionally up into the scalp. This usually clears within two to three months. As feeling returns over the next few weeks you may notice some strange sensations in the facial skin as the nerves regrow. Permanent damage of the facial nerve is very uncommon with facelift surgery.

Infection

Wound problems can occur as with any surgery, though in the case of the facelift, infection is most likely to occur behind the ears. This may sometimes require a course of antibiotics.

Haematoma

Occasionally a large blood clot may form under the raised skin flaps in the immediate post op period. The surgeon will take you back into theatre to clear the clot, stop the bleeding and resuture the wound.

Scarring

It is unusual for patients to be left with obvious scarring. Scars in front of the ears become imperceptible. The only visible scar is that which runs from behind the ear into the scalp, and this is usually hidden by the hair. Delayed healing may cause scarring which takes longer to settle.

Hair Loss

Patches of temporary or permanent hair loss may occur where the incisions were made in the hair, but these are easily hidden behind other hair.

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Facelift Surgery Index

• Facelift Surgery Overview
• Is a facelift right for me?
• Before Facelift Surgery
• The Facelift Procedure
• After Facelift Surgery
• Possible complications

Related Treatments

• Mini facelift Surgery
• Browlift Surgery
• Eye Lift Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
• Nose Reshaping / Nose Job (Rhinoplasty)
• Dermal Fillers
• Collagen Injections