Been trying to get up courage to have a facelift for 4 years concerned about recovery process and downtime. any suggestions how to get past that?

Facelift recovery: The downtime can be quite variable, some people bruise and swell more than others. Plan on taking about 2 weeks off, that way you're safe. When you get back, you will look refreshed. Make sure you are in good health and your blood pressure is well controlled.

Due diligence: The most important factor in the doctor - patient relationship is 'trust'. Once you trust your doctor you will be at ease with your decision to have surgery. To gain that trust in , make sure that he is experienced board certified plastic surgeon. Check his or hers before and after pictures and talk to his patient. You can also check his reviews on the web. Best of luck, .

Talk to surgeon: Explain your anxiety and concerns to your surgeon so that he or she can help dispel your issues.

Plastic Surgeon: Express your fears to a board certified plastic surgeon. He/she can help reassure you of the risks and benefits. The biggest anxiety of surgery is the unknown- discussing your fear will help you overcome this! good luck!

Facellift recovery: Facelifts alone heal quite quickly. It is more the associated procedures such as eyelid lift (blepahorplasty), fat injections, laser peels, etc that actually prolong the recoveyr or make it more obvious. Most sutures, if used, are removed by 7-10 days. Activity may be limited for 3 weeks. Facelifts vary tremendously in their extent and get answers from your surgeon will help to ease your mind.

Knowledge: Understanding what your surgeon will do and what to expect is an important step. Ask you surgeon if some of his/her prior patients would speak with you about their experience. Make sure you are fully committed to the process, and of course, make sure your surgeon is a board certified facial plastic or plastic surgeon with experience in facelifting.

Facelift recovery: If you are considering having a facelift, you could ask your surgeon if you could speak with someone who has already had the procedure. Hearing someone else discuss their experience may alleviate your fears.