Facial Liposuction

What is Facial Liposuction?
Facial and neck liposuction is effective for removing localized fatty deposits in the face, the undersurface of the neck area and the lower neck region. It is also effective in the cheek region and in front of the ears, as this area is often times more plump than it should be. Often times, despite dieting and exercise, the face can appear more full than desired. Exercise and diet are generally recommended and can certainly improve the overall appearance. However, in many cases, no matter how much we diet or exercise, the prominence and roundness of our facial features persist. Facial liposuction is therefore, in these instances, required to satisfactorily reduce the deposition that is produced by time and by abnormal fatty deposition. Particular success is achieved for those patients who have recently lost weight, yet feel that their face appears more full and round.

The consultation:

woman with red lips The initial consultation is very important, so that you may discuss with Dr. Bourget, the changes you would like. Facial rejuvenating is a very individualized procedure, therefore Dr. Bourget will explain to you the different types of surgeries, injections, laser resurfacing, and/or liposuction, the best method for you will be discussed at that time. The doctor will suggest the procedure that he feels would best conform with the look you want. Photos may be taken at this time. Medical conditions should be brought to the doctors attention at this time (high blood pressure, blood clotting problem’s, tendency to form excessive scars, etc.). Make sure you provide all information about medication on your questionnaire, including aspirin, vitamins and any natural products that you are taking. It is very important to advise the staff if you are a smoker.

Preparation:
The preparation for facial and neck liposuction may start a few months prior to surgery. Dr. Bourget may want to see you for a pre-op appointment 2 to 8 weeks before your actual surgery date. Certain facial creams may be stopped a few days before surgery. No makeup should be worn the day of surgery. Your hair should be washed prior to surgery, and dried without any hair products. The nursing staff may go over post-operative bandages and medications a few weeks before your surgery. Medications may be altered at this time (if possible). Smoking should be stopped, ideally, 2 weeks prior to surgery; smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin, and may interfere with the healing of incisions. It is advised that you purchase all necessities that will be needed during your recovery; such as medication, ice, ointment; prior to your surgery.
 
Instructions:
Carefully following these instructions, on the day of your procedure, will help your surgery go smoothly:
  • You should be fasting 6 hours prior; if you must take medication, drink as little water as possible.
  • No facial creams or makeup can be applied.
  • Your hair should be washed the day of surgery, do not apply any hair spray or other preparations.
  • Remove nail polish.
  • Bring in all current medications (that you are taking).
  • Leave all valuables and jewelry at home.
  • Wear loose fitting clothing.
  • It would be very beneficial to have someone stay with you for 24 hours after surgery.
  • Avoid using medication or food containing aspirin or aspirin like compound (see list).
Surgery:
You will be asked to be at the clinic 30 minutes before surgery time. Upon arrival a nurse will prepare you for your surgery, help you to feel at ease. Your sedation will then be started. Surgeries usually take a few hours, but may take longer, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
Liposuction is usually performed by making a tiny incision under the chin in one of the natural creases. In some cases a small incision can be made behind the ear lobes. After removing the fat by method of suction the neck is wrapped with dressing for pressure. It helps expedite the healing and adjusting the skin in its new position. After your surgery the nurses will go over all instructions with the person that will be accompanying you at home.
Don’t be surprised at the pale, bruised, and puffy face you see. This is normal and will last around 10 days.
There is usually no significant discomfort after surgery; pain medication will be prescribed by Dr. Bourget to diminish any discomfort you will have.
Cold or ice packs help to reduce swelling, bruising, and pain. Use frozen peas in the package or crush ice cubes and put the ice into a zip-lock bag. This should help not hurt. If the ice feels too uncomfortable, don’t use it as often. Ice 20 minutes per hour, when not asleep. (Stop icing if it gives you a headache). We recommend that you do NOT eat salty foods following surgery. This will only increase your swelling.
Your head will be bandaged after your surgery (and should not be removed). The dressing will typically be removed, by a team nurse or Dr. Bourget the next day during your appointment. Starting one day after surgery, wear the neck support strap we issue full time for the first week and at least half time for the second week. After two weeks you may want to wear the neck garment at night for another two weeks for additional support.
Some numbness of the skin is quite normal; it will disappear in a few months.
Sutures will be removed in 7 to 10 days after surgery.
 
Wound Care:
Your hair should be washed gently everyday beginning the day after surgery. – Incisions may be cleaned twice a day using a Q-tip with dilute peroxide (50% water) followed by the application of Polysporin antibiotic ointment over all suture lines. If oral incisions were used, brush your teeth gently three times a day and rinse with warm salty water.
 
Recovery:
  • It is recommended that you keep your head elevated and as still as possible for a couple of days after surgery, to keep the swelling down.
  • Continuously apply cold compress for 24 to 48 hours after your surgery.
  • Recovery time will vary, depending on your surgery, usually a period of 7 to 12 days will be needed.
  • Avoid driving an automobile for at least 24 to 48 hours after surgery.
  • Avoid strenuous activities, heavy housework for at least 2 weeks. Alcohol, steam baths and saunas should be avoided for several months.
Your first post-op appointment will be scheduled the day after surgery, and other follow-up appointments will be scheduled depending on your progress.
 
Do not apply makeup or facial creams until Dr. Bourget feels you are ready.
 
Expectations:
Every individual is unique and results vary from person to person depending upon ones inherent anatomy and underlying medical condition. Inherent elasticity of the skin and underlying medical conditions as well as the age of the patient are important factors. Post operative swelling may camouflage the result initially and sometimes the overall result is not seen until months subsequent. Sometimes there can be small irregularities or firmness in the regions treated; however, this will soften and smooth out over time. The final result is generally evident by approximately six weeks to six months after the procedure.
 
Medicalia:
Dr. Bourget may suggest some skin care products from Medicalia.
Medicalia has a complete line of skin care products for patients who are expected to undergo surgical procedures.
Pre-Operative Care will help prepare the skin for surgical procedure, encourage spectacular results and prevent hyperpigmentation. Product use should commence an average of 6 weeks prior to surgical procedure.
Post-Operative Care will accelerate the healing process. After undergoing any operative procedure, there is no substitute for powerful post-operative care. Most importantly, preventing the dreaded formation of post-operative milia (acne).
Special Instructions: Swelling and bruising are normal. Some bloody drainage is normal. Signs of hematoma – Painful, extreme hardness or bleeding, often accompanied by major bruising that may be one side causing asymmetry. Call us immediately if you have any symptoms you are concerned with.
 
Risks Involved:
Facial and neck liposuction surgery outcome are generally very positive. However, as with any surgery, complications may occur. Dr. Bourget will answer any questions you have about possible risks.
Although allergic reactions to medications or sutures are rare, they may occur. Any known allergies should be mentioned to Dr. Bourget prior to surgery.
There may be formation of a hematoma (blood clot).
Most patients experience some numbness following surgery. In the vast majority of patients, this is temporary but in a few cases, there may be permanent numbness and nerve damage. This should be discussed with Dr. Bourget.
Infection is a potential risk following any surgical procedure. If an infection does occur, it is usually treated with antibiotics. If fever, persistent swelling and pain or pus develop following surgery, contact Dr. Bourget.
Minor bleeding may occur after certain “open” surgical procedures, but this is easily controlled. In the rare event excessive or prolonged bleeding occurs after you return home, contact Dr. Bourget.
 
There may be poor healing, scarring, loss of tissue or relapse and rarely second surgeries may be necessary.
Dissatisfied results the practice of medicine and surgery is not an exact science, no specific results, guarantees or assurances have been given to me by Dr. Bourget or his staff, as to the expectations or results that may be achieved.
There are some potential drawbacks to injudicious liposuction. When to much neck fat is removed, the lymphatic system is disrupted. This can result in prolonged (weeks to months) swelling and edema. Overly aggressive fat removal can also leave ridges and distortions of normal facial contours. The thin layer of fat in the face provides the padding underneath the skin . If to much is removed, the movement of the jaw and cheek muscles may become disconcertingly apparent.
It is normal for some patients to experience a brief period of “let-down” or depression after cosmetic surgery. Some may subconsciously have expected to feel and look better “instantly,” even though they rationally understand that this will not be the case. Patients commonly question their decision to have surgery during the first few days after surgery. As the healing occurs, these thoughts usually disappear quickly. If you feel depressed, understanding that this is as a “natural” phase of the healing process may help you to cope with this emotional state.