A ponytail facelift differs from a traditional one, including in terms of the incisions, recovery time, results, and candidacy. A traditional facelift requires more incisions than a ponytail facelift. Consequently, the procedure results in more noticeable scars. In addition, there is less downtime after a ponytail facelift since the procedure is minimally invasive. Recovery after a traditional facelift takes longer. However, the procedure gives more long-lasting and youthful results than a ponytail facelift. This is because your surgeon will not remove excess skin during a ponytail. People who qualify for a traditional facelift are older people with drooping facial skin. On the other hand, you are a good candidate for a ponytail facelift if you are experiencing the early signs of aging.

Surgeons carry out ponytail facelifts under general anesthesia. Therefore, you shouldn’t feel discomfort during the procedure. When the effects of the anesthesia wear out, you may experience slight discomfort. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you feel more comfortable during the initial days of the recovery.

When you visit Dr. Chopra for a facelift, you should be prepared to discuss your surgical goals, previous surgeries, and current medications. You will also discuss your medical conditions and allergies. Your surgeon will also evaluate your health status and risk factors. You will also discuss the likely outcome of the procedure, potential risks, and the type of anesthesia you will use during the surgery.

A facelift can make you look about ten years younger. Usually, older patients see more dramatic results. Nevertheless, the procedure also makes younger patients look even younger.

You may experience slight bruising and swelling for about two weeks after your surgery. However, the discomfort should wear off if you follow your surgeon’s post-procedure instructions. Avoid combing or brushing your hair vigorously to speed healing and prevent complications. Otherwise, you may irritate the incision areas and sutures. Instead, treat your hair gently and use non-irritating shampoo until the sites heal.

Although a ponytail lift restores your youthfulness, the procedure does not address a saggy jawline or neck. Therefore, you may need additional surgery to target these areas. This procedure may not be for you if you are looking for a more lifted appearance.

Before getting a ponytail lift, it is ideal to visit Dr. Chopra for an ENVISIONS consultation. During the consultation, ensure you ask questions to understand the procedure, its risks, and its benefits fully. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to ask. Also, make arrangements for your transportation home after the procedure. It would be best if you also got your prescriptions beforehand. Furthermore, stay off alcohol for at least two weeks before your surgery. You should also avoid aspirin and other medications that may increase bleeding and bruising.

After your procedure, it is advisable to sleep on your back. Sleeping on your back does not put pressure on your incision sites and thus prevents complications. If you usually sleep on your side or stomach, you may find it difficult to sleep on your back. You can prop yourself with additional pillows to avoid rolling off your position or moving excessively while sleeping. When you have recovered fully, your surgeon will evaluate your scars and let you know if you can return to your favorite sleeping position.

Exercise stresses you and strains your stitches. Consequently, it can have adverse effects on the results of your surgery. Therefore, avoiding physical activity is best. It would be best if you also allowed your body to rest after the procedure. Make sure to ask your surgeon before you resuming your workouts or gym training. It would be best if you start with light exercises like walking and stretches.

After getting a ponytail lift, you need to rest to speed up your recovery. When you want to start exercising, it is best to do so progressively and not push yourself. For instance, walking is a light exercise. After a few weeks, you can start cycling and stretching. When cycling, you don’t necessarily have to do so at an incline. Instead, you can use a stationary bike or ride slowly on a straight road. Cycling helps you exercise your legs without stressing your body. Nevertheless, take breaks whenever you feel tired. Stretches relieve stress and relax your body. But avoid doing intense poses. If you feel any discomfort, it is best to stop or change poses. You can also try out pilates after your facelift. Pilates targets muscle groups and builds your strength without using weights. This low-impact exercise is excellent after a ponytail facelift. But, again, it is best to start with slow, non-intensive exercises.

The results of a ponytail facelift do not last forever because the aging process continues. However, you can slow down aging and make the effects of your surgery last longer. You can protect your skin and slow down aging by:

• Eating a balanced diet. A balanced diet nourishes your skin and reduces the signs of aging. It is best to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet while limiting refined carbohydrates and sugars;
• Use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It would be best if you also avoided exposure as often as possible;
• Exercising improves blood flow and boosts your immune system to give you a more youthful appearance;
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Tobacco smoke damages skin cells and leads to premature aging. Excessive alcohol consumption also accelerates aging;
• Get enough sleep. Sleeping improves blood flow, allowing your organs to repair collagen and reduce wrinkles and spots. It is best to sleep for at least 7 hours every night.