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Surgical Procedure

Face Lift

A face lift corrects many of the signs of facial ageing such as saggy cheeks, loss of facial volume, folds between your nose and mouth (nasolabial folds), lines between your mouth and chin (marionette lines) and the jowls by supporting saggy tissues and removing any excess skin.

An incision is placed from the hair line in the temple downwards in front of the ear crease, round and behind the ear and into the hair line (as to disguise the scar). Through this incision there is undermining of the skin and also of the strong connective supportive tissue called the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system).

Surgical Procedure

Face Lift

A face lift corrects many of the signs of facial ageing such as saggy cheeks, loss of facial volume, folds between your nose and mouth (nasolabial folds), lines between your mouth and chin (marionette lines) and the jowls by supporting saggy tissues and removing any excess skin.

An incision is placed from the hair line in the temple downwards in front of the ear crease, round and behind the ear and into the hair line (as to disguise the scar). Through this incision there is undermining of the skin and also of the strong connective supportive tissue called the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system).

The SMAS is then secured and tightened with specialized internal supporting stitches and the skin is redraped and any excess skin is removed. Very fine soft specialized drains are placed in the wound to reduce the risjk of fluid accumulations.

Facelifting is often performed in combination with a neck lift, browlift, blepharoplasty and other facial rejuvenation treatments such as skin resurfacing and volume replacement with fat transfer.

A face lift is performed under general anaesthesia and if performed in isolation, can be performed as a day case operation which means you can go home the same day as the surgery.

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Fast Facts Sheet

Frequently
Asked
Questions

What is the aim of Face Lift surgery?

To soften the signs of facial ageing.

These signs include saggy cheeks, loss of facial volume, folds between your nose and mouth (nasolabial folds), lines between your mouth and chin (marionette lines) and the jowls.

The face lift supports saggy tissues and removes any excess facial skin.

You are advised to bring younger photographs of yourself to your consultation with Dr Rory in order to discuss goals and act as a reference point.

How long will the results last?

As we become older our faces loose volume in terms of bony support and soft tissues. In addition, there is the constant effect of gravity.

These are some of the causes of the characteristic signs of facial ageing.

The results of a face lift will withstand time but the above factors will still have an ongoing ageing effect on the facial appearance and this must be taken into consideration. This effect varies from patient to patient and can be difficult to predict and so individual results do vary over time.

The most longstanding outcomes from facial rejuvenation are often in those who have had combination treatments.

Combination treatments and more extensive surgery has a longer recovery period but longer lasting results.

What happens on the day of surgery?

Prior to the day of surgery you will be given the following information and it is critical to know these details ahead of time:

  1. Surgery day and exact time of arrival and where to report to
  2. Presurgery instructions for food, drink and medications (avoid taking Aspirin, Non-Steroidal medicines, vitamins or homeopathic regimens as this can increase bleeding risk)
  3. Organise transport to collect you from the hospital on the day of discharge if you are not driving. If performed under local anaesthesia it is safe to do so.
  4. Provide contact details of friends or family
  5. To organize toiletries, sleepwear (if overnight) and a suitable change of clothing
  6. Your list of medicines and allergies (if known)
  7. The nature of your particular surgery, recovery details and follow up plan

On the day of surgery you will be checked in by a nurse and all your details will be confirmed and you will be changed into a surgical gown.

Dr Rory will see you before your surgery to run through all the details of the surgery, the consent forms as well as performing all your surgical markings. Multiple ID checks and procedure confirmation will be performed prior to your operation as safety is a priority.

After your surgery Dr Rory will notify your friends or family to let them know the procedure has finished and put their mind at ease. Depending on the procedure he will see you after the surgery and discuss the procedure.

When you are feeling comfortable, the team will then allow you to be discharged as planned that morning. All medicines and instructions will be given to you on your discharge.

How long will the surgery take?

If done in isolation, the surgery takes approximately four hours.

This does not include anaesthesia time. In total, the whole procedure may last longer.

Will the procedure be painful?

One of the primary aims of any procedure performed by Dr Rory is to create a pain free experience.

A long acting local anaesthetic agent is injected at the end of the procedure within the wound to make you comfortable.

In terms of recovery, there will be some tenderness in the surgical area and some discomfort as well as swelling in the face.

You may also experience a new sensation of tightness in your face.
Dr Rory places a soft compression dressing and a very fine soft specialized drains in the wounds to reduce the risk of fluid accumulations and to keep you comfortable. These are removed at day two after surgery.

What is the recovery period?

This is a major procedure and so the recovery is two weeks.

During this time you can fully mobilise and are encouraged to walk around. In addition, you are advised to sleep with three to four pillows to elevate your head in order to further reduce swelling.

You should avoid bending over, strenuous activity or heavy lifting for two weeks.

What should I consider when recovering from the procedure?

Bulky dressings and drains are removed at day two, after which you can wash your hair carefully. Don not use a hair drier as your ability to feel the heat may be compromised.

All the stiches are removed at one week

There may be some numbness over the scalp and facial area which returns over a few weeks and can start with the sensation of itching.

A slight overcorrection is always performed and so your final results are normally apparent at six months.

The final appearance of your scars will be at 18 months.

What is the cost of the procedure?

If performed alone, the cost of the procedure varies depending on the extent of the surgery but starts at 65,000 AED (excluding VAT).

The final cost is determined on a case by case basis dependent on complexity and additional procedures. Combination surgeries will lower the price of individual surgeries if done together.

A full surgical no-commitment consultation with Dr Rory will provide all the necessary details for your particular case.

What are the risks of the procedure?

These include some discomfort, infection, risk of bleeding, swelling, asymmetry, ear lobe deformities, nerve injury with areas of numbness or muscle weakness, recurrence of signs of facial ageing and areas of hair loss or visible scars in the hairline.

Smokers face delayed wound healing and poorer quality scars generally from most surgeries. Dr Rory is therefore very strict when it comes to smoking and Face lift surgery. You are advised to stop smoking two months before and after this surgery.

The results in terms of resolution of swelling will be at approximately two weeks. This varies between patients.

A slight overcorrection is always performed and so your final results are normally apparent at six months.

Anything in particularly important I should know about the procedure?

It is an artful and technically demanding procedure with high satisfaction rates if performed in the appropriate individuals.

It is most often performed with other facial rejuvenation techniques.

The scars are well hidden and Dr Rory aims to make you look as natural as possible. Therefore planning and discussing your goals with younger photographs at your consultation is critical.

What is the follow up after the procedure?

Each patient has a follow up schedule that is different.

You will be advised by Dr Rory and his team your particular follow up journey.

Typically it involves seeing the team at day two and a week after surgery for a wound check and removal of stitches.

Thereafter, scar checks are performed at the six week point. This schedule will differ between individuals.

Who is involved in my care?

Dr Rory is the primary physician in charge of all your care. He performs all procedures himself and is meticulous about every aspect of your care.

Once he has performed a procedure on you he is available for you as your on-call doctor.

He will provide you with contact details and will be available for you. If you have any questions or concerns at any time he is available to support you.

He has trained his team around him to an exceptionally high standard from his aesthetic coordinators to aesthetic nurses.

In some instances, for example, for photography, garment fitting, wound dressings, checks or removal of stitches, his highly trained team will perform the care liasing directly with Dr Rory with real time updates.

I cannot recommend Dr Rory enough. In a location we’re we struggle to find certified, competent and capable surgeons finding Dr Rory has been an absolute god send and he has exceeded all expectations I had.

After loosing a significant amount of weight I was left with many areas of my body that had excess skin and needed fixing and a face that required signigant rejuvenating I now have the body and face I’ve always dreamed of.

If you are looking for great results, realistic opinions and a Dr you can trust he’s your surgeon. Thank you Dr. Rory for everything!

— Charlotte BA

Dr. Rory is not only one of the best doctors I have met but also one of the most genuine people I have ever met. He takes the time to explain and listen to your wants or concerns.
Not only is he THE BEST but his team of nurses and assistants go out of their way to help in any way possible! Thank you Dr. Rory for always looking after me.

— Kendra L

Very happy with my breast augmentation results and so glad i chose Dr.Rory as my surgeon. He’s a professional compassionate and very skilled doctor. He was very attentive before and after my surgery. My breasts look natural and not overdone. It was an easy and stress free experience with great results.

— Vlada V

After 10 years of contemplating breast augmentation surgery I have finally done it! I’m so glad that I decided to finally have my surgery performed by Dr Rory McGoldrick and his wonderful team. I’m so happy with the results and would highly recommend him if you are looking to have this procedure done.

— Lauren M

Does not disappoint. Dr Rory is always so professional and honest. He takes the time to explain everything so you know exactly what you are getting.

— Katie S

An artist! Absolutely hands down would recommend Dr. Rory to everyone looking for an honest, professional and ethical doctor who isn’t afraid to say no to unrealistic requests but yes to enhancing natural beauty.

Very kind, friendly and patient. 10 stars from me!

— Somaiah D

I have never experienced such a professional consultation before the treatment. He is focusing of getting natural look and i really liked that. It wasnt my first time, but im very impressed the way of communication. Not to mention the result. Thank you so much Dr. Rory, I will honestly recommend you to all my friends and definitely will come back!

— Olga M

I recently had surgery (4weeks ago) with Dr Rory and from the moment I met him I felt in safe hands no question was too silly or too small!! Even on the day of surgery his calm, professional manor put me at ease even though I was very nervous!!

After having a very bad experience before I did lots and lots of research and I would have no doubt recommending Dr Rory to anyone that was looking for an amazing surgeon.

— Emily G

Dr Rory is an absolute superstar. He is not only outstanding surgeon but his approach to patients is “human”. He listened to my opinion and what I wish to achieve with the treatment I opted for.

His caring but professional approach before, during and after the procedure made the whole journey ja pleasant one. Would highly recommend him to anyone who considering cosmetic procedure in Dubai.

— Eniko S

He is professional, highly competent and his relaxed caring bedside manner instills confidence that you have chosen the well. I have recommended family members and friends to him and they have all been very pleased with their results.

— Jo C

Dr Rory is absolutely incredible, made me feel so relaxed about my surgery. His level of care and expertise sets him as one of the best plastic surgeon in the region.

— Alexandra A

He explains everything in detail and will not oversell any procedure for the sake of it. His advice and technique are tailored to each patient and you always feel that he is giving you a service above and beyond the norm. I trust his work implicitly.

— Kerry S

Dr Rory is not only a gentleman but a true professional. His surgical approach and results are of the highest standard. In addition, his bedside manner and dedication to his patients is a welcomed change in an already saturated mediocre market.

I cannot recommend Dr Rory enough and have full confidence in his ability and amazing results. Any client pursuing enhancement at any level will not be disappointed.

— Louise D

I am an absolute fan of Dr Rory for his real and matter-of-fact approach to his work and his natural and confident talent at administering it. In a matter of my first visit I knew I was in the hands of a true professional and ever since he has exceeded expectations.

— Eliza S

Dr. Rory takes plastic surgery to a whole new level. Highly professional, amazing supporting staff and a true gentleman. I had a full tummy tuck done a year ago with beyond amazing results.

— Ange A

I had been considering Rhinoplasty & Breast Augmentation surgery in Dubai for quite a while, I visited a number of surgeons but the one person that I was eager to meet was Dr Rory, not only had I heard great things about him, I had been left a little dubious about other surgeons I had met here and just never felt comfortable enough to make the decision to book the surgery and go ahead…. I genuinely cannot recommend Dr Rory enough!

— Nathalie H

Couldn’t ask for anything more from a doctor. Honest, professional, helpful and the best results you could ask for.

I’ve been seeing Dr Rory for about 3 years now and I wouldn’t go anywhere else in Dubai or London. Couldn’t recommend him highly enough.

— Lorraine H

The best plastic in Dubai hands down. Such an amazing experience as a patient from start to finish

— Sarah P

Dr Rory is an incredible, professional and ethical plastic surgeon who I would recommend to anyone. His warm and welcoming approach instantly puts you at ease in what is often a daunting process.

He offers honest and professional advise/recommendations that will not go beyond your bodies limits leaving you feeling confident, supported and positive in your decision.

— Stacey C

I had a reconstructive surgery following mastectomy with Dr Rory and he was beyond amazing. He is extremely professional. He took special care of me considering my situation.
The second I met him I was at an ease. I felt very comfortable discussing all the tiny details with him.

His level of follow up is remarkable. He doesn’t mind contacting him at anytime and responds to all questions patiently. He is a true example of what an outstanding surgeon can be like.

— Zeinab R

I had my breast augmentation surgery with Dr Rory as have three of my friends. We all had the same experience. Five stars.

— Chloe W

I would never recommend anyone else, his professionalism, knowledge, experience are all spot on and would not trust anyone else in Dubai. He is also a great person and takes the time to listen and adjust his approach based on your needs.

— Nadina T

He is a perfectionist and the best plastic surgeon in Dubai! Cannot recommend him enough.

— Ahmed B

Super knowledgeable, professional & personable – highly recommended!

— Heidi R

Dr Rory is an absolute professional. I cannot recommend him highly enough. Always impressed with the personalised services of him and his team.

The facilities at the Lutetia clinic are very hard to beat – the whole experience is very unique.

— Karis K

Dr Rory McGoldrick has been my Dr and Surgeon for over a year. I cannot recommend his services enough. He is highly experienced, extremely professional yet empathetic at the same time.

— Kate H

After meeting a few other surgeons, I was not sure I would proceed with my surgery in Dubai. Then I was referred to Dr. Rory from a friend and this changed my mind after the first consultation.

He is professional, patient, and made me feel comfortable and confident in every decision along the way. I am ecstatic with my results and thankful for the expertise of Dr. Rory!

— Lara D

I recently had breast reduction surgery with Dr. Rory. I can honestly say it was the best thing I have ever done, after 4 children and turning 50, I feel like a new person.

Dr. Rory was amazing from the moment I walked into his office, until now with my aftercare 2 months later. If you are thinking of having this or any other type of surgery done, he is your surgeon, genuine, understanding and most important he listens to what you want and gives his best guidance. Thank you Dr. Rory for changing my life.

— Kim A

I have been a patient of Dr Rory for a couple of years and have been extremely pleased with the results.

He is very professional and caring. He consults with each patient to achieve the desired results for each individual. I would highly recommend Dr Rory for any of your cosmetic needs.

— Kirsty S

I had some light facial procedures over a 6 month period with Dr Rory and then found the courage to undertake a Mommy makeover with him. It has been the best decision I ever made.

The care I received from him and his team were second to none, he never laughed at my daft questions and really reassured me every step of the way.

The surgery and the aftercare was fantastic. He has done an amazing job and even 10 months on I still look in the mirror completely thrilled. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Dr Rory.

— Dominique W

Dr Rory is definitely one of a kind. He is not only an expert in his field, he is also a wonderful human being.

Dr Rory made me feel at ease during the consultation as well as treatment and explained every step throughout the procedure.

— Katja

Dr. Rory is an amazing plastic surgeon. Not only he knows the best his job , but also he is very polite and attentive to his patients after treatment too. Highly recommend.

— Ramina B

The most professional service and a level of care which is exceptional. Absolute pleasure. Big thank you to Dr. Rory and his team.

— Martina T

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