The Psychology of Facelift Surgery

One of my favorite surgeries to perform is the facelift. Seeing the twinkle in the eye and the smile on the face of my patients when they see the final results is breathtaking. Not only is it an emotional experience for them, but it’s an extraordinary reminder of how far we’ve come as partners on this surgical journey.

When my patients first come to see me, the most important thing I can do for them is to listen. They tell me about their desire a have a more beautiful, younger or vivacious appearance. We spend a lot of time discussing their “problem areas” and what can be done to correct them. But that’s not all. We take the time to explore their “why.”

The “Why” of Knowing the “Why”

Aesthetic surgery is unlike any other surgical procedure. It is elective surgery meaning it is initiated by the patient. When a patient wants to undergo aesthetic surgery, they have a distinctive “why, and this tells me what they are expecting with the surgical outcome.

If a patient wants to look like a celebrity, the risk of disappointment is great after surgery. And it is this emotion that can lead to a more damaged self-view and a drop in self-esteem.

However, if a patient simply wants a better version of themselves, then he or she will be more satisfied with the surgical experience. And it is this result that we aim for in the field of aesthetic surgery.

Getting to the Nitty Gritty

When patients come to see me, I ask questions such as…

·      What area of the face seems to be “flawed”?

·      Would other people perceive it to be normal?

·      Why do you think it’s flawed?

·      Does the problem area cause pain or get in the way of everyday activities?

·      What are your expectations before, during and after your facelift surgery?

·      Is there someone you would like to resemble?

·      Will this surgical procedure be a boost to your self-esteem? How so?

·      Are you looking to simply change your appearance or do a total life makeover?

·      Why have you chosen this time in your life to seek aesthetic surgery?

Understanding the Psychology of Facelifts

Many would-be patients want to look and feel better, and some want the advantage of a boost in confidence because they are dating again or want to advance in their careers.

Sometimes patients want to shake things up during or after a traumatic event. They may be going through a dramatic change – the loss of a job, divorce or the death of someone who is close to them. It’s common to want to shake things up after such events, but it may be a good idea to postpone elective surgery until the issues have settled.

And still, there are those who want to play up to external influences such as cultural, social, physical and sexual influences. Sometimes they are pressured into having facelift surgery to keep the attention of a significant other. If this is the case, I believe it’s good for my patients to hear themselves tell me if this is the cause because it may prompt them to reconsider unhealthy relationships.

Naturally aesthetic surgery isn’t off the table in situations like these, but it is helpful to know what patients are dealing with so I can address their concerns and support them emotionally throughout the surgical process.

At Your Service

If you would like to learn more about the consultation process, contact us today. And be sure to ask us about our January special. Save 5% on a lower facelift and 10% on a mid or full facelift.*

*To take advantage of this special offer, you will need to pay a booking fee before January, 31, 2014. All procedures must be complete by May 31, 2014.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7360810