Endoscopic Facelift: Benefits Of This Technology

One variation on the traditional facelift is the endoscopic kind. This means that the doctor uses an endoscope, which is a tiny device that has a camera on the end. He or she inserts it beneath the skin, and then watches the images that come up on the monitor since this acts as a guide to ensure accuracy during the procedure. Not every surgeon performs this kind of procedure, but many of the most modern offices do use this technology, so ask if this is a possibility. Find out the pros and cons about it before you decide that this is the best option for your situation.The main point of using an endoscope during a facelift is that the doctor can depend on the camera to show underneath your skin, instead of having to check it out through the incision. As a result, the incision does not need to be nearly as large as with a traditional procedure. In fact, most doctors only have to make a few tiny incisions instead of a single long one that runs the width of the face. In most cases, the doctor will make about three short cuts in the forehead area, just along the hairline so that the incisions are not noticeable to others. He or she will then insert the endoscope into each cut, looking at the monitor before proceeding to see the image that is projected. Not only does this allow for much smaller incisions, but it also results in better accuracy during the surgery.The obvious benefit for you is less visible scarring, as a few tiny ones are easier to hide than one long scar. Another advantage, though, is the fact that you have a lower chance of suffering from nerve damage when you have tiny incisions, so your risks are reduced with this type of procedure. In addition, smaller cuts heal faster so you can expect less bruising, swelling, and bleeding as you try to recover. Therefore, your recovery period should be shorter and less painful, allowing you to show off the results as soon as possible. You can also get back to work or school sooner than with a traditional facelift, which is a major benefit since plastic surgery can often result in several weeks of recovery, which means lots of missed days.Despite the fact that this procedure involves more technology than most types, it is often less expensive. This is because you can get it done as an outpatient so you do not have to stay in the hospital or even get general anesthesia. Your wallet should appreciate this fact, allowing you to get the surgery done sooner than you thought if you are saving up money before scheduling the appointment.The biggest drawback of an endoscopic facelift is that you cannot get your neck lifted at the same time since doctors do not tend to use an endoscope for a neck lift. However, if you are not worried about the skin of your neck, then this may be the perfect treatment for you. Talk to your doctor about it at an initial consultation.