How to have a legit deep plane facelift under local anesthesia and recover fast!

At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we’ve spent the last eight years perfecting the art of deep plane facelifts  and neck lifts  under local anesthesia. This approach offers significant benefits, including increased safety compared to intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, along with a faster recovery. While the procedure takes longer and limits us to one surgery per day, we take pride in dedicating our full attention to each patient and their aesthetic goals.

In this blog, we’ll cover what to expect before and after a facelift under local anesthesia, tips to avoid complications, and how to see past some of the hype and marketing in the cosmetic surgery world.

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What is a Deep Plane Facelift and Neck Lift?

A deep plane facelift and neck lift is a major surgical procedure that targets the deeper structures of the face. Here’s what the surgery involves:

• Repositioning facial fat: We separate tissue layers and release retaining ligaments to lift and restore volume.
• Tightening muscles: The superficial muscular layers are tightened for a natural, long-lasting result.
• Skin rejuvenation: Excess, wrinkled, or thinned skin is removed where appropriate.

We often combine a deep plane facelift with other procedures, such as:

• Lip lifts  for a more youthful pout.
• Brow lifts to open u p and brighten the eyes.
• Eyelid surgery (upper or low er blepharoplasty) for refreshed, younger-looking eyes.
• Fat grafting to restore  volume lost with age.

Additionally, skin resurfacing  is available and we will be adding CO2 laser resurfacing PhantomClear by MDElite will soon at our practice, providing enhanced skin rejuvenation.

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Why Don’t All Surgeons Perform Facelifts Under Local Anesthesia?

While local anesthesia offers clear benefits, it requires unique skills and adjustments:

• Expertise: Performing effective nerve blocks for patient comfort takes time and practice. Not all surgeons are experienced or comfortable with these techniques.
• Time Commitment: Preparing a patient under local anesthesia, including administering medications and blocks, can take over an hour. This reduces the number of procedures a surgeon can complete in a day.
• Cost Considerations: Some surgeons own surgical centers and benefit financially from charging facility fees associated with general anesthesia.
• Patient Interaction: Performing surgery with the patient awake may not appeal to every surgeon, though we find it an enjoyable and engaging part of the process.

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What to Expect Before Your Facelift Under Local Anesthesia

At Levesque Plastic Surgery in Austin, TX, we focus on personalized care every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect at your consultation 

You’ll meet personally with me, Dr. Levesque for a detailed one-hour consultation to discuss your goals and concerns.

A preoperative visit includes photos, consent forms, payment, and prescriptions. Some patients may require additional visits, which we’re happy to accommodate.

Medications

We’ll prescribe the following medications ahead of time for your comfort and safety:

• Oxycodone: For breakthrough pain, typically needed only the first evening.
• Halcion (triazolam): A mild sedative taken during the procedure to help you relax.
• Zofran (ondansetron): For nausea prevention.
• Keflex (cephalexin): An antibiotic to prevent infection.
• Gabapentin (Neurontin): To manage nerve-related discomfort.
• Tylenol (acetaminophen): For general pain relief.

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What Happens on Surgery Day?

• Arrival: Bring your prescribed medications, which we’ll review with you.
• We will get you checked in typically right at clinic opening, complete our surgical markings and go over the plan in as much detail as desired.
• We will get you comfortably positioned on our surgical bed and once the medications have you in a comfortable state we will begin injecting the numbing solutions.
• Surgery will then begin and typically is completed in the early afternoon.
• Transportation: A responsible adult must drive you home—no Uber or Lyft.
• Post-Surgery Care: You’ll leave with a light neck bandage and gauze for support. A small amount of drainage is normal, and you can shower and gently cleanse your face the next day.

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Follow-Up Care

We prioritize close follow-up to ensure a smooth recovery:

• First Visit: Typically within 1-3 days post-surgery, we check for any issues like bleeding or skin health. Rare complications are addressed immediately.
• Stitch Removal: At 1 week, we remove stitches and assess healing. By this time, most patients are off prescription medications and feel comfortable with light makeup.
• Additional Visits: Follow-ups continue at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and annually, free of charge.
• Recovery is a crucial part of the journey. At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we emphasize post-surgical care, including guidance on scar management to minimize th eir appearance and protect your results.

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Tips to Avoid a "Botched" Facelift

Doing your homework can save you from unsatisfactory results. Check out our before-and-after gallery for real examples of patient transformations. You can also visit our about  page to learn more about Dr. Levesque’s qualifications and philosophy.

Choose a Qualified Surgeon: Look for board certification in plastic or facial reconstructive surgery.

Review Before-and-After Photos: A surgeon’s portfolio speaks volumes about their expertise.

Do Your Research: Follow your surgeon’s social media and observe their approach to patient care and results.

Consult Multiple Surgeons: Comparing consultations can clarify who best aligns with your goals and comfort.

Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that filtered images and celebrity results may not reflect reality.

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How to Speed Up Recovery

Rest: Prioritize sleep and avoid strenuous activity.

Elevate: Keeping your head elevated minimizes swelling.

Protect Scars: Use sunblock, silicone gels, and follow your surgeon’s guidance.

Consider Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT): This can reduce inflammation, improve mood, and accelerate healing.

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Explore Related Procedures

If you're exploring facial rejuvenation, don’t miss out on other services we offer, like non-surgical treatments, including Botox and  fillers, which  complement surgical results beautifully.

At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we’re with you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and safe journey to achieving your aesthetic goals. Whether you're from Austin or traveling from out of town, we’ll provide exceptional care and attention throughout your facelift recovery.

Ready to learn more? Schedule a consultation today and t ake the first step toward a refreshed, confident you!