A facelift is a great way to take control over your looks, and it's easier and cheaper than ever before. Although the potential for complications is low, there is still some risk. Know when it's time to call the doctor, and you can get it treated quickly.

Swelling And Bruising

One of the most common complications of a facelift (and it's not so common, but does occur) is developing hematomas. Hematomas are collections of blood in the face, in areas where the facelift has been done. It usually involves swelling and a tingling sensation.

The good thing about hematomas is that they will get better. Apply an ice pack, and most times they will go away. The only trouble is that it takes time to recover from them. In severe cases, they need to be drained, and for this you'll have to head back to the surgeon.

I Can't Feel My Face!

Another one of the more common problems is numbness in the face. Following your facelift, some part of the face like the ears or cheeks may feel numb from time to time. Or, some part may go numb when you turn your head or open your mouth widely.

This is caused by nerve damage from the operation. It is almost never permanent, but you should still contact the surgeon and make sure. Most nerve damage is minimal, and it goes away naturally as the nerves heal themselves and reconnect. It is often felt in the first few months after the surgery.

Post-Facelift Infections

Infections are another risk of getting a facelift. They can range from tiny infections that are easily treated, to highly resistant viruses that can mean lots of follow-up work.

The key to treating infections is to get them treated quickly. It's not hard to tell you have an infection. There will be swelling, pain, pus, discoloration and possibly a fever to accompany it. Contact your surgeon immediately if you even think you have an infection, and they can get you on anti-biotics quickly.

When Is It Time To Call The Surgeon?

Calling the surgeon immediately is the best way to treat all complications. If you have any pain, discharge or swelling, call the doctor immediately. If your stitches pop or the incisions change color, give the surgeon a call. In general, if anything looks funny, go ahead and make the call just in case.

Another way to avoid all complications is to choose another operation instead. You can get lip augmentation, a nose job, brow lift or any other kind of face work done part by part, rather than getting it all done at once with a facelift. This is a little more complicated and will cost you more, but it's another option if you're worried about the risks.

Most facelifts go just fine, and people recover easily from them. Keep in communication with your surgeon and understand what you should expect from your recovery. Then, make the call if anything seems odd.