A woman looking at her face in the mirror and frowning

Can a Bad Facelift Be Corrected?

Back to all posts May 15, 2023

From nose jobs to brow lifts and from breast augmentation to liposuction, you expect your plastic surgery procedures to go flawlessly. After all, that’s what cosmetic surgery is for. Facelift surgery is no different. It is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to help people achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance. 

However, like any surgery, there is always a risk of complications or a less-than-desired outcome. If you have recently undergone a facelift and are unhappy with the results, you may be wondering what steps you can take to correct the issue. 

How do you know if a facelift is bad? Can a facelift be corrected? We’ll explain below. 

What causes a botched facelift?

A facelift gone wrong can occur for a number of reasons, including inexperienced or poorly trained surgeons, unrealistic patient expectations, and pre-existing medical conditions that can impact healing. Additionally, some patients may not be good candidates for a facelift due to skin laxity or other factors that can affect the outcome. In some cases, bad facelift results may be due to complications during the healing process, such as infection or improper aftercare.

Can a bad face lift be corrected?

A woman touching her face with a look of dismay

When it comes to plastic surgery, a bad facelift can be a distressing and disappointing experience for patients. A botched facelift can result from a variety of factors, including poor surgical techniques, a lack of experience or expertise on the part of the surgeon, or unexpected complications during the healing process.

The good news is that many bad facelifts can be corrected through revision surgery. During revision surgery, a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon will address the issues that caused the unsatisfactory result. This may involve adjusting the incisions, repositioning or removing excess skin, or addressing other issues that may have contributed to the problem.

Revision surgery can be more complex than the initial facelift, and it is important to find a highly skilled and experienced surgeon to perform the procedure. Patients should look for a plastic surgeon who specializes in revision surgery, has extensive experience in facelifts, and has a proven track record of successful outcomes.

The exact approach to revision surgery will depend on the individual patient’s circumstances and the extent of the issues that need to be corrected. In some cases, a minor revision or touch-up procedure may be all that is necessary to achieve the desired outcome. However, more extensive revision surgery may be required in other cases.

It is important to note that revision surgery may not always be possible or advisable in some cases. Patients who are considering revision surgery should discuss their options with their plastic surgeons and carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks before deciding to undergo another surgical procedure.

What do you do if you are unhappy with plastic surgery?

If you are unhappy with the results of your plastic surgery, the first step is to schedule a consultation with your surgeon to discuss your concerns. In some cases, minor adjustments or touch-ups may be all that is necessary to achieve the desired outcome. However, if more extensive revision surgery is required, your surgeon may refer you to a specialist or recommend a revision procedure.

Why do some facelifts look so bad?

There are several reasons why some facelifts may look less than ideal. In some cases, a poorly executed surgery or inadequate aftercare may be to blame. However, other factors can also impact the outcome, including skin texture, facial bone structure, and the natural aging process. Additionally, some patients may have unrealistic expectations or may not have been properly informed about the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

How long does it take for your face to look normal after a facelift?

The healing process following a facelift can take several weeks to several months, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing factors. During this time, it is not uncommon for the face to appear swollen, bruised, or discolored. However, most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few weeks and notice a significant improvement in their appearance within several months.

How can you tell if a facelift is bad?

There are several signs of a botched facelift, including visible scarring, asymmetry, unnatural contours, and an overall “pulled” or distorted appearance. In some cases, patients may also experience telltale signs of ongoing pain, discomfort, or other complications that can be indicative of a botched procedure.

Takeaways

While facelifts are generally safe and effective procedures, there is always a risk of complications or a less-than-desired outcome. If you are unhappy with the results of your facelift, it is important to speak with your surgeon about your concerns and explore your options for revision surgery. By working with a skilled and experienced surgeon, you can achieve the natural and refreshed appearance you desire.

Dr. Andrew Jacono

Dr. Andrew Jacono, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a Dual Board Certified, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with a thriving practice on Long Island’s Gold Coast and in Manhattan on Park Avenue.

Dr. Jacono specializes in reconstructive surgery, specifically facelifts, rhinoplasties and eyelid lifts with flawless, yet natural results. He’s internationally recognized for his innovative non-surgical and minimally invasive facial rejuvenation techniques. As Director of the New York Center for Facial Plastic & Laser Surgery, Dr. Jacono's expertise attracts a wide range of clientele, from prominent celebrities to everyday individuals seeking various enhancements. He is also sought-after for his expert opinion as a lecturer and presenter. Dr. Jacono has presented his innovative techniques at leading universities in the US, and has conducted live surgery at over 100 global plastic surgery meetings and symposiums across multiple countries and organizations.

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