There may come a time when you look in the mirror and ask yourself, “Is there anything I can do to improve my appearance?” When the changes that you see start to bother you—sagging skin, looseness in your neck and a poorly defined jawline—consider consulting with a plastic surgeon about a facial contouring procedure, the only option that will provide you with real, long-lasting improvements. But before you proceed with a facelift, there are a few things you should know:
Your expectations must be realistic
Just because you’re opting to undergo surgery doesn’t mean you’ll look like you’re 20 again. “The goal is to look refreshed and make improvements, but still look like you,” says Dr. Brad Robertson, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. It is important to know that we can’t always eliminate every line and wrinkle.
Surgery can restore a youthful shape to your face, but it will not improve the look of brown spots, redness or fine lines. These concerns can be address with other procedures, such as laser treatments and chemical peels. At Belcara Health, we offer an extensive range of technologies and treatments to select from as we work with you to create a comprehensive treatment that addresses your concerns and meets your goals.
You will have scars
While technology and techniques have improved over the years, a facial surgery will still leave some degree of scarring. At Belcara Health, our surgeons make every effort to minimize the appearance of scars. Incisions are hidden in the natural creases and lines of the face, mostly around the ears, and sutures are carefully placed to reduce tension and protect facial tissues. “For our patients, scars drastically improve over time and blend into their natural features, so they are virtually undetectable,” states Dr. Robertson.
You must allow time for recovery
Depending upon the extent of your procedure, it can take anywhere from 10 days to a couple of weeks before you are ready to resume normal activities, and upward of a few months before your results are finalized. At Belcara Health, we educate patients in detail on what to expect and steps they can take to aid and hasten their recovery. Liquid facelifts are a less-invasive option for contouring, that provide exceptional results.
Trust your plastic surgeon
It is crucial to check your doctor’s credentials, to ensure you’re in the right hands. The first step is to confirm your surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, to ensure your surgeon has had the proper education and training, has met nationally recognized high standards and fulfills continuing education requirements.
At Belcara Health, we take qualifications very seriously. Every medical staff member is highly credentialed in their specialties: from surgeons and anesthesiologists to registered nurses and aestheticians. Also, our on-site surgical facility meets the most stringent qualifications including a rigorous and voluntary accreditation by the AAAHC, an achievement only a few local facilities have earned.
Even when a surgeon is qualified and experienced with a procedure, that person might not be right for you. You’ll get the best results from a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable and trust. “My patients and I enter into a unique partnership. Therefore, I feel it is very important to earn their confidence and trust. Communication is the key; I listen actively, answer every question posed and educate my patients about the procedures that can help them meet their goals,” says Dr. Robertson. Compassion, respect and sincere care for every patient are fundamental elements of our philosophy at Belcara Health.
