What are the benefits of Facelift under Local Anesthesia?

Most patients are surprised to find out that they can have a facelift performed while awake. After the initial surprise, they come to understand why this may be the best option for many people. At Givens MD | Faces Medspa, located in Dubuque, IA, many of our patients opt to undergo deep-plane face and neck lifts under local anesthesia with light IV relaxing medicine in our office surgery suite. This modern approach to facelift surgery is an option that many patients find surprising at first but ultimately come to appreciate for its minimal downtime and quicker recovery compared to traditional methods that require general anesthesia.

The Deep-Plane Face and Neck Lift Procedure

A deep-plane facelift is one of the most effective surgical techniques for rejuvenating the lower face and neck area. It addresses common aging signs such as sagging skin, jowls, neck folds, and loose facial tissues. This technique goes beyond the superficial layer of the skin and works deeper into the underlying facial structures, lifting and repositioning muscles and tissues for more dramatic, longer-lasting results. When performed correctly, a deep-plane facelift can restore youthful contours without leaving visible scarring or an overly "tightened" appearance.

Unlike traditional facelifts that may only pull on the skin to remove sagging, a deep-plane facelift lifts and tightens the deeper layers of the face, repositioning the underlying tissues, muscles, and fat. This approach allows for a more natural and balanced result that lasts longer while minimizing tension on the skin itself. The added benefit of the procedure is that it effectively addresses the neck area, providing a complete rejuvenation for the face and neck together, without the need for separate surgeries.

Why Awake Facelifts?

Most patients are familiar with the traditional facelift surgery, which is performed under general anesthesia, often requiring several days of recovery and the discomfort associated with it. However, facelifts performed under local anesthesia have become increasingly popular, offering many benefits that make it a top choice for many of our patients. The most common concerns regarding surgery while awake involve fear of pain, discomfort, or the procedure itself, but these concerns are often alleviated once patients learn more about the process and understand the benefits of local anesthesia.

A common misconception is that a facelift requires general anesthesia, where the patient is completely unconscious during the procedure. However, with advancements in surgical techniques and anesthesia options, patients can undergo facial rejuvenation procedures while awake and still experience minimal discomfort. During this process, local anesthesia is administered to numb the surgical area, while light IV sedation helps to keep the patient relaxed, calm, and at ease.

One of the main reasons patients opt for a facelift under local anesthesia is the significantly reduced recovery time. The use of local anesthesia means that there is no need for the body to "wake up" from the effects of general anesthesia. Many patients find that they feel alert and clear-headed immediately after surgery, with little to no grogginess, nausea, or the feeling of being "drugged" that sometimes accompanies general anesthesia.

How Local Anesthesia Works for Facelifts

Local anesthesia is a highly effective method for numbing a targeted area of the body without affecting the rest of the system. For facelifts, this involves a combination of high-concentration numbing injections placed along the incision lines, where the skin will be lifted, and a dilute numbing solution injected into the remainder of the face. This ensures that the areas affected by the surgery are completely numb, and patients typically do not experience pain during the procedure.

For additional comfort and relaxation, a light IV sedative and pain medication are often administered as well. This ensures that the patient remains calm, relaxed, and pain-free throughout the surgery. The sedative helps reduce anxiety and contributes to a stress-free environment, allowing the surgeon to perform the delicate procedure with precision and care while the patient remains comfortable.

Local anesthesia can provide several benefits, especially in an outpatient setting. Recovery is faster because there are no residual side effects from general anesthesia. Patients are typically able to go home the same day after the procedure and rest in the comfort of their own homes. The absence of a lengthy recovery from anesthesia also means that patients can avoid the discomfort of the "hangover" feeling that sometimes accompanies general anesthesia.

Comparing General Anesthesia vs. Local Anesthesia

General anesthesia, while an effective way to perform surgery, has its own set of potential risks and drawbacks. It requires a licensed anesthesia provider to monitor the patient’s vitals and ensure their safety throughout the entire procedure. After surgery, patients can experience several hours of grogginess, nausea, and stiffness in their body. These symptoms typically take 1-2 days to subside, making the recovery process slightly longer.

In contrast, facelifts performed under local anesthesia generally do not cause these hangover-like symptoms. Patients often report feeling more alert immediately after the surgery, with no issues related to nausea, dizziness, or confusion. The absence of these symptoms is a key reason why many people prefer this option.

Additionally, local anesthesia eliminates the need for an invasive breathing tube, which can sometimes cause irritation or discomfort in the throat after general anesthesia. Local anesthesia also reduces the likelihood of complications such as blood clots, which are sometimes associated with general anesthesia.

Is a Facelift Under Local Anesthesia Right for You?

While a facelift performed under local anesthesia is a highly effective option for most patients, it is not necessarily the best choice for everyone. If you are the type of person who immediately thinks, “I can’t be awake for this,” you are probably correct. Some individuals may not feel comfortable being awake during a surgical procedure, and in these cases, a general anesthetic performed by a licensed anesthesia provider is definitely a better option.

However, for many people, a facelift under local anesthesia is a perfectly comfortable option. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how well they tolerate the procedure. The combination of local anesthesia and light sedation means that they experience very little discomfort during the surgery and have a quick recovery afterward. Additionally, being awake during the surgery allows patients to have a better understanding of the process, which can provide peace of mind.

Personalized Approach to Facelift Surgery

One of the most important aspects of any surgical procedure is the personalized approach that the surgeon takes with each patient. Dr. Givens, the expert surgeon at Givens MD | Faces Medspa, takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and preferences. During the consultation, he listens to your concerns, answers any questions you may have, and helps you decide whether a facelift under local anesthesia is the best option for you.

For some patients, a facelift can be performed entirely in our office surgery suite using local anesthesia. For others, general anesthesia may be necessary for the best possible results. Dr. Givens takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to each case, ensuring that the surgical plan aligns with the patient's goals and comfort level.

At Givens MD | Faces Medspa, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible results and the highest level of care. Whether your procedure can be performed in our office surgery suite under local anesthesia or will require general anesthesia, you will achieve the utmost best results. Dr. Givens and our experienced team are dedicated to helping you look and feel your best.

Local Anesthesia Facelift and Neck Lift: Conclusion

A facelift performed while awake is an excellent option for many patients seeking facial rejuvenation. The use of local anesthesia, combined with light IV sedation, makes the procedure comfortable, effective, and minimally invasive. Patients experience less downtime, avoid the side effects of general anesthesia, and can return to their daily routines more quickly. With the expertise of Dr. Givens and the personalized care provided at Givens MD | Faces Medspa in Dubuque, IA, you can achieve natural-looking, youthful results without the need for general anesthesia. Contact us today to learn more about this innovative approach to facelift surgery and how it can help you achieve the appearance you desire.