Facial Surgery Consultation in Brisbane: Five Areas That May Be Discussed

Facial surgery may be considered by some patients when discussing changes in facial tissues, skin quality, tissue position, or the relationship between the face and neck. The suitability of surgery varies between individuals and can only be assessed after consultation and examination.

A consultation should include discussion of the patient’s medical history, anatomy, previous surgery, medications, healing factors, reasons for seeking information about surgery, alternatives, risks, recovery, and the option of not proceeding with surgery.

This article outlines five areas that may be discussed during consultation. It is general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice.

1. Assessment of facial tissue position

Changes in facial tissue position may occur over time and can vary between individuals. During consultation, the practitioner may assess the skin, soft tissue, facial structure, and the relationship between the cheeks, jawline, and neck.

Surgical options, if suitable, may involve repositioning facial tissues. The approach depends on individual anatomy, medical history, previous procedures, and the patient’s suitability for surgery.

No surgical technique is appropriate for every patient, and no specific outcome can be predicted from the procedure name alone.

2. Assessment of facial volume and tissue support

Some patients may have changes in facial volume or soft tissue support. These changes may be related to anatomy, ageing, weight change, previous procedures, or other individual factors.

During consultation, the practitioner may assess whether any surgical or non-surgical options are relevant. In some cases, no procedure may be recommended. In other cases, options such as facial fat grafting or tissue repositioning may be discussed as part of a broader surgical plan.

Any decision about volume adjustment should be based on clinical assessment and a discussion of risks, limitations, recovery, and alternatives.

3. Assessment of the lower face and neck

The lower face and neck may be assessed together because the position of tissues in one area can affect surgical planning in the other. A practitioner may assess skin quality, soft tissue position, neck anatomy, and any functional or medical factors that may be relevant.

Surgical procedures involving the lower face or neck require careful planning. They may involve incisions, tissue repositioning, wound care, anaesthesia, and a recovery period. The likely recovery process and possible complications should be discussed before deciding whether to proceed.

4. Decision-making and expectations

Facial surgery should not be presented as a way to achieve a particular social, emotional, or psychological outcome. Individual experiences vary, and surgery may not address broader concerns about self-image, social confidence, work, relationships, or wellbeing.

A consultation should provide an opportunity to discuss the patient’s reasons for seeking information about surgery, whether those reasons are appropriate for surgical decision-making, and whether referral or further assessment is needed before considering a procedure.

Patients should have time to consider the information provided, including the risks, limitations, costs, recovery requirements, and alternatives.

5. Recovery and follow-up

Recovery after facial surgery varies between individuals. Swelling, bruising, discomfort, tightness, altered sensation, temporary changes around incision sites, and activity restrictions may occur. The time required to return to work, exercise, and usual activities depends on the procedure performed, whether procedures are combined, and individual healing.

Follow-up appointments are important so that healing can be reviewed and any concerns can be assessed. Patients should follow the post-operative instructions provided by their treating practitioner.

Risks of facial surgery

All surgery has risks. Risks of facial surgery may include, but are not limited to:

• bleeding or haematoma
• infection
• scarring
• delayed wound healing
• pain or discomfort
• bruising and swelling
• altered sensation or numbness
• asymmetry
• facial nerve injury
• hairline or skin changes near incision sites
• skin loss or wound breakdown
• anaesthetic complications
• dissatisfaction with the outcome
• need for revision surgery

The likelihood and significance of these risks varies between individuals. A consultation is required to discuss personal risk factors and whether surgery is suitable.

Consultation and further information

A consultation with Dr Adam Honeybrook can be used to discuss facial surgery, available surgical options, risks, recovery, alternatives, and whether surgery is suitable for your circumstances.

Dr Adam Honeybrook is a registered medical practitioner with specialist registration in Surgery – Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Registration number: MED0001602935.

To contact the practice, call:

• New patients: 07 3485 0596
• Existing patients: 07 3488 8118

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