As the face ages, the skin loses elasticity and volume causing the skin to sag, wrinkles to deepen, and jowls to develop. Rhytidectomy, more commonly known as a face lift, is a surgical procedure that aims to reverse these visible signs of aging. It is usually combined with a neck lift to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Multiple techniques can be used for a facelift which will be discussed during consultation.
The incisions are carefully planned to blend with natural facial lines around the ear extending into or along the hairline based on the patient’s hair pattern. The skin is lifted off the face and the underlying structural tissues are repositioned to recreate a youthful facial contour. The skin is redraped and the excess removed. The skin is closed using both dissolvable and permanent sutures that will be removed in the following weeks. A small drain will be placed to allow fluid drainage and is typically removed the following day. Patients will stay for overnight observation unless he/she/they are within x(10?) minutes from the office/hospital and can be seen in-office the next day.
There may be slight bleeding and drainage from the surgical site which can be absorbed with gauze. It is important to keep the head elevated and limit physical activity after surgery to reduce excess pressure and swelling. Swelling will take a couple weeks to resolve and most patients feel well enough to resume normal activity at this time. Sun protection is strongly recommended as the skin will be more susceptible to sunburn and scars may darken with sun exposure. Makeup can usually be worn over the incisions at 2-3 weeks after surgery.
What is the difference between mini and full facelift?
Also known as a short scar facelift, a mini facelift is a facial rejuvenation procedure that focuses on the jawline. As the scar is limited, so too are the results. However, this can be a great option for patients who are happy with their upper face, do not prominent neck bands, and want a shorter recovery period.
Other procedures that can be done concurrently
Fat grafting [Fat may be taken from the abdomen and used to fill hollow areas or increase fullness as desired eg to cheeks, nasolabial folds, lips, earlobes (see facial fat grafting for more details?).]
Neck lift
Eyelid surgery
Forehead/brow lift
Buccal fat pad removal
Other procedures in general —skin treatments to improve complexion