The Surgery Most facelifts are done on an outpatient basis, under local or general anesthesia. If the neck needs work, a small incision may also be made under the chin. The surgeon then separates the skin from the fat and muscle below. Fat may be trimmed or suctioned from around the neck and chin to improve the contour. The underlying muscle and membrane is then tightened and the excess skin is removed.
Stitches secure the layers of tissue and close the incisions.
Metal clips may be used on the scalp. After Your Surgery Following surgery, a small, thin tube may be placed under the skin behind your ear to drain any blood that collects. Your head may also be loosely bandaged to minimize swelling and bruising. The drainage tube will be removed a day or two after surgery. Bandages are usually removed after one to five days.