When looking at the ageing face, we sometimes see not only wrinkles but also excess skin. It may look as though the skin is suddenly two sizes too large for the face.
In mild cases, this can be corrected by injecting fat taken from elsewhere in the body. This restores volume to the upper face and fills the loose skin envelope. At the same time, excess fat accumulated under the chin can be treated with liposuction. The treatment is usually performed under general anaesthesia. Possible risks include bleeding under the skin (a haematoma) and temporary changes in skin sensitivity.
Recovery
Swelling of the face is normal after surgery and usually subsides after two weeks, when it is generally possible to resume a normal social life. The final result may take two to four months to appear.
Fat injection can be performed at different ages, but is commonly used between 30 and 45. At a later age, it is more often used to complement a facelift.
When skin excess is more severe, fat injection alone will not solve the problem, but it can complement a facelift by restoring natural volume to an ageing face.
Facelift incisions are hidden around the ears and are usually discreet. The operation removes surplus skin from the face and neck and can be combined with neck liposuction. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. Bleeding and haematoma are possible, which is why an overnight hospital stay may be recommended for observation.
Changes in skin sensation are a common side effect and generally disappear within three to four months. Complete healing takes around four weeks. Swelling and bruising usually subside after two weeks, while the final result develops during the following weeks.
Eyelid surgery
The first signs of facial ageing often appear around the eyes. The upper and lower eyelids have very fine skin, where wrinkles and excess skin may develop. Lower-eyelid bags and a fold of excess upper-eyelid skin can be corrected with blepharoplasty.
This procedure, usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, can restore a more rested and open look. Lower-eyelid incisions are placed either behind the eyelid or just below the eyelashes. On the upper eyelid, the incision is placed in the natural fold. Once healed, the scars usually become very discreet.
Healing takes around two weeks, after which work and normal physical activities can generally be resumed. Some swelling may remain, so the full result usually takes one to three months to become visible.
The information above is general and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, risks, recovery and pricing must be assessed individually.
Procedure information
Body rejuvenation
Pregnancy and childbirth can significantly change the body. Most women recover well, but others are left with stretched abdominal or breast skin, stretch marks, breast ptosis or a loose abdomen. Similar changes may also follow obesity and significant weight loss.
An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can correct these changes. With the patient under general anaesthesia, the surgeon repairs the abdomen through a low incision just above the pubic area, designed to remain covered by underwear. Excess skin is removed and the underlying abdominal muscles can be repaired to restore a narrower waistline and a flatter abdomen.
Recovery
This is major surgery and most patients need around two days in hospital. Healing takes approximately four weeks, after which many patients can resume work. Full abdominal strength generally returns after about eight weeks, when the final result becomes visible.
Possible risks include slow wound healing and thrombosis in the lower legs, which is why it is essential to follow the surgeon's instructions carefully.
The procedure is not age-dependent; it is indicated according to the patient's anatomy and needs. Maintaining a stable weight, eating well and staying active help preserve the result.
The information above is general and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, risks, recovery and pricing must be assessed individually.
