A facelift, technically known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck.

Sagging in the midface can create deep creases, such as below the lower eyelid and/or between the nose and mouth (nasolabial fold) giving one a tired or sad appearance.  Fat that has fallen (or become displaced) and loss of muscle tone in the lower face can create jowls, a jaw line that sags into the neck.  Loose skin and excess fatty deposits under the chin and jaw can make even a person of normal weight appear to have a double chin.

A facelift is designed to correct all of these aging features, restoring a more youthful, rested appearance with uplifted contours and improved tone in the facial skin and underlying muscle. As a restorative surgery, a facelift does not change your fundamental appearance and cannot change the aging process. Although you will continue to age naturally, aging will progress from the more youthful version of yourself that has been restored by facelift.

Who is a Candidate?

If you are bothered by the signs of aging in your face, a facelift may be right for you. In general, a facelift corrects sagging facial skin and muscles, removes excess fat and restores firmness to create a younger, restored appearance.

A facelift is best performed on adult men and women who feel that their facial aging no longer reflects the youth and vigor they feel physically and emotionally. Good candidates are:

• Healthy individuals who do not have illnesses or medical conditions that can impair healing
• Non-smokers
• Individuals who have a positive outlook and specific realistic goals for improvement of their appearance

Your Consultation Visit

 A consultation visit is the first step in learning how a facelift can improve an aging face and neck. The consultation is designed to fully educate you about your facelift in a non-pressured environment. During your consultation visit we will talk about:

• Your goals and evaluation of your current signs of aging
• The options available for you
• The likely outcomes and potential risks and complications
• The course of treatment recommended by your plastic surgeon

Overall health and personal outlook can greatly impact the outcome of a facelift.  These will be carefully evaluated during your consultation visit. You will have the opportunity to ask any additional questions or concerns that you may have. You are also welcome to tour our accredited surgery center so that you can be comfortable with where your surgery and recovery will be performed. Our patient care coordinator will give you pricing information for the procedures you have chosen and financing options, if you are interested.

The Procedure

A facelift is a highly individualized procedure. I will evaluate your skin, muscle and bone structure and the specific conditions that contribute to your aging appearance. These factors are the most significant considerations in determining the appropriate technique or combination of procedures to achieve your realistic goals.

A traditional facelift restores the midface, jowls and neck by removing excess skin. Your goals, anatomy and my surgical judgment are all factors in determining the best approach to your individual case.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used for your comfort and safety.

Recovery

Initial healing will include swelling and may include numbness and mild discomfort. Your skin may be bruised or discolored and face movements may be temporarily restricted. These are common conditions. A return to light, normal activity is usually possible within a few days of surgery.

We will instruct you to keep your head elevated at all times until the initial swelling has subsided. You will also be given post-op instructions which includes specific directions for the cleaning your face and hair.  It is essential that you follow all instructions carefully.

Generally, facelift incisions are well-healed within a week. You will be ready to return to work and light, normal activity in 2-4 weeks. Cosmetics can usually camouflage any remaining bruising.

Healing will continue for several more weeks as your swelling resolves and incision lines improve. Facelift recipients should practice diligent sun protection until the healing process is fully complete. Additional instructions on your care and healing will be provided in follow-up visits.