Revision Facelift

For those who have undergone a facelift and aren’t pleased with the results (or whose facelift is over ten years old), a revision facelift may be needed to refresh your results.

What is a revision facelift?

A revision facelift is a facelift performed for the second (or third) time. While the reasons for having this surgery vary from patient to patient, one thing is certain: it takes an expertly trained, highly skilled plastic surgeon with plenty of experience who specializes in cosmetic facial surgery to perform it properly.

It can be a challenging surgery, as the surgeon will have to deal with elements such as scar tissue and overly-stretched skin. As an internationally respected plastic surgeon who is triple board-certified in Plastic Surgery, Facial Plastic Surgery, and Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Henry Mentz is the ideal choice to perform a revision facelift.

Common reasons for a revision facelift

The facelift was performed at least a decade ago
The skin has been pulled too tight
There is unsightly leftover scarring or scars were placed poorly
Ear scars that are quite visible, or the earlobe is pulled forward (“pixie ear”)
Unsatisfactory outcome (often residual jowling or skin laxity)

Facelift resulted in puckering, dimpling, or creasing of the skin
Unwanted changes to the hairline, ears, or mouth
Asymmetrical or unnatural-looking results
Facelift was performed with an outdated or unsatisfactory technique

Revision facelift surgical details

Dr. Mentz performs revision facelift surgery at his AAAASF-certified SurgiCentre facility in Houston under general anesthesia. The procedure takes 3 to 5 hours, depending on how much work is required to be done, and if the patient is undergoing any other procedures on the same day. In general, the same incisions that were used for the first facelift can be used, but in some cases the incisions may need to be moved if they healed badly.

Revision facelifts require meticulous care, as the patient will already have stretched skin from their first facelift and there will most likely be scar tissue to work around. Dr. Mentz will correct asymmetries, re-position tissues, and improve other problem areas in order to achieve a better-looking, more aesthetically pleasing outcome. After the incisions have been closed, dressings will be placed to help with recovery.

Recovery

The majority of revision facelift patients need approximately two weeks to recover. During this time, swelling, discomfort, and soreness is to be expected for several days, with swelling taking a bit longer to heal because of the scar tissue.

For some patients, Dr. Mentz recommends an overnight stay at his SurgiCentre where you can be easily cared for by a trained plastic surgery recovery nurse. Or, if you live within 20 miles of the SurgiCentre, a nurse who is trained in post-operative recovery can visit your home. The nurse will change any dressings, monitor your recovery, assist you with your medication, and provide the doctor with an update on your consultation. This is part of Dr. Mentz’s signature concierge surgical and recovery experience. Most sutures are removed 5 to 7 days after surgery. Peak swelling takes place within 24 to 48 hours, with moderate swelling may lasting for weeks. We recommend elevation of the head (even during sleep) to reduce swelling.

Candidates for revision facelift

Want to correct mistakes or outcome from their first facelift
Underwent their first facelift at least one year ago

Are non-smokers in overall good health
Have realistic expectations about what a revision facelift can accomplish

Dr. Mentz for revision facelift surgery

Since 1991, Dr. Henry Mentz has been one of the leading experts in aesthetic plastic surgery. He has trained with skilled surgeons in facial aesthetic plastic surgery, and has received numerous prestigious honors for his contributions to the medical industry. Moreover, facial rejuvenation procedures account for about 250 services a year at his practice — so you can be assured you’re in excellent hands. One of the country’s best facelift doctors over 30 years in practice, Dr. Mentz is the ideal choice to perform a complex surgery such as revision facelift. Not only does he have special experience, expertise, and training; he also provides a higher level of pre-and post-operative care with his signature concierge surgical and recovery experience, in which you will receive five-star service. It’s Dr. Mentz’s goal to provide you with an exceptional patient experience that results in your aesthetic empowerment. To schedule your consultation, we welcome you to contact us today.