Is it standard procedure to use drains for a facelift?

Standard Use of Drains - It is very common and normal to use drains for a Facelift. I use them for at least two days post op as it minimizes the bruising and swelling.

It is very common to use drains when performing a facelift. I personally always use them as do most of the other plastic surgeons that I know. However, it is not a requirement that they be used and I know of some plastic surgeons who do not use them, especially when they are using tissue glue under the flaps. The specific method used will be the one that the particular surgeon has used successfully in the past and is comfortable with.

I always use drains in facelifts. There are many excellent surgeons who do not do this. The risk of a drain is minimal and the benefits are substantial. In my practice, I ALWAYS use drains because it decreases the swelling, it decreases the bruising, and it allows for the tissues to heal together without any fluid accumulation. I remove these the morning after surgery and it is painless. I have never been sorry I have used a drain. I have been sorry when I did not.