FACIAL RHITIDOPLASTY
WHAT IS IT?
Ritidoplasty is the surgery aimed at facial rejuvenation, improving sagging, wrinkles, and grooves. Additionally, it repositions the facial muscles. It shows good results, always considering the individual characteristics and age range of each patient. This procedure visually delays the facial aging process but does not stop the body's evolutionary process.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Scar
The scars are located on the scalp and a small portion on the front of the ear, pre or post tragal, according to preference.
Anesthesia
Both general anesthesia and local anesthesia with sedation are used.
Surgical Time
Typically, around 2 and a half to 3 hours.
Hair Dye
If hair dye is used, it should be done one week before the surgery so that its effect lasts until it can be done again, after the third week.
Haircut
Hair is not cut during the surgery.
PRE-OPERATIVE
1) Complementary exams to be specified.
2) Photography of the area is important for evaluation, surgical planning, and documentation.
3) Arrive at the clinic on the agreed day and time, preferably accompanied.
4) Do not bring jewelry and other valuables to the clinic.
5) Do not paint your nails.
6) Any intercurrence such as illnesses (flu, fever, infection) or other reasons that lead to the suspension of the surgery should be reported to the professional in advance.
CARE:
1) Fasting for at least 6 hours before the start of the surgery.
2) Medication for hypertension and other diseases should be informed to the surgery for further guidance.
3) Do not take medication containing acetylsalicylic acid (e.g., AAs, Rhonal, Buferin, Aspirin) one week before and one week after the surgery as it increases bleeding.
4) Weight loss medication should be suspended 15 days before the surgery.
5) Do not smoke 15 days before and 15 days after the surgery. How about taking the opportunity to quit smoking?
POST-OPERATIVE
Pain
The surgery is generally painless. It rarely presents slight pain, which can be perfectly managed with common painkillers.
Hospital Stay
Generally, 24 to 48 hours.
First Dressings
Upon leaving the surgical center, you will have a helmet-shaped dressing. After removal, the hair can be washed normally (bring shampoo and conditioner to the clinic) and can be dried with a discreetly warmed hairdryer and gently styled. The eyes are not occluded, and cold boric water compresses or cold chamomile tea is recommended for 48 hours.
Shower
After the drains are removed, you can wash your hair (shower).
Diet
Light, liquid, and soft.
Edema (Swelling)
Swelling is progressive during the first 48 hours, after which it becomes stable and then begins the regression process, faster in the eyelids and slower in the rest of the face. The treatment of the neck muscles results in a feeling of "tight neck." This may be aggravated by edema and tends to improve, especially after the start of massages.
Bruises
These are the purple spots on the skin, which can be more or less intense, depending on personal characteristics and post-operative compresses (very important). The use of Arnica in the pre-operative phase prevents bruises.
Itching (itching, burning, numbness, or hypersensitivity)
These may occasionally occur over the scars, which are initially red. This is temporary and tends to disappear.
Physical Efforts
Wait 15 days.
Removal of Stitches
The stitches on the eyelids are removed in about 5 to 7 days, and the remaining ones are usually not removed.
Dressings after discharge
Only hygiene of the scars (water or antiseptic solutions),
Sun
Not allowed for a minimum period of 2 months. We recommend the use of sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), reapplied every 3 hours, strictly for 2 months.
Massage
Facial and lymphatic massage during the first 2 months accelerates the regression of edema.
Makeup and Hair Dye
Makeup is allowed after the first week and dyeing after the third.
Depression
A short period of emotional depression may occur in the first few days due to the initial appearance. This is temporary and usually arises from anxiety to achieve the result as soon as possible. Be patient.
Remember that no result of facial aesthetic surgery should be evaluated before 3 months post-operative.
Sensitivity
There is usually a decrease in sensitivity in the area. Recovery is gradual, and a small area may remain less sensitive.
"WILL THIS DISAPPEAR?"
Every surgery involves its own recovery period. Give it time, as your body will take care of dissipating small inconveniences that will inevitably attract someone's attention, who will not hesitate to observe: "Will this disappear?" Do not hesitate to communicate any concerns. We will provide the necessary clarifications for your peace of mind.
RESULT
During the first four months post-surgery, the area may appear slightly edematous (swollen), with a gradual accommodation of organic tissues over time. The scar will initially be more reddish and hardened, then becoming paler and thinner. This process is slow and may take several months. However, it is not possible to predict exactly how it will turn out, as the process depends not only on the technique used and post-operative care but also on individual factors.
After the initial four months, a re-evaluation and new photography will be conducted for comparison of pre and post-operative (before and after). If this re-evaluation indicates the need for any touch-up, a procedure considered common in plastic surgery, it should be performed after the 6th month and within a maximum period of 10 months after the surgery.