Search
Close this search box.

Facelift

Facelift, or Rhytidectomy, improves the visible signs of aging in the face and neck, such as:

  • Sagging in the midface.
  • Deep creases below the lower eyelids.
  • Deep creases along the nose extending to the corner of the mouth.
  • Fat that has fallen or is displaced.
  • Jowls created by the loss of muscle tone in the lower face.
  • Loose skin and excess fatty deposits under the chin and jaw, which can make even a person of normal weight appear to have a double chin.

Full and mini facelifts will help improve these signs of aging. Procedures typically considered in conjunction with a facelift are a brow lift, to correct a sagging or deeply furrowed brow, and eyelid surgery to rejuvenate aging eyes.

Your consultation is your time to ask the doctor about the procedure you’re considering, how he thinks it will work for you, and any concerns you may have. We suggest you come prepared with your questions on paper so you’re sure not to forget to ask the questions that are important to you.

Questions to Consider:

  • What is the simplest and safest surgery to help me achieve my goals?
  • How is the surgery performed?
  • What is the expected length of operation?
  • Are other options available?
  • What results can I expect, and how long do the typical results last?
  • Where will scars be located, and how noticeable will they be?
  • Will scars fade over time, and how long will this take?

When you arrive at the office, you will be asked to fill out a few pieces of paperwork. It is very important when asked about medications to put down all medications you take, including any supplements or aspirin-type regimens, since these items can impact your blood clotting and pressure. In addition, you need to be truthful about your use of tobacco and alcohol since this will affect your recovery and incision healing.

Before you see the doctor, a nurse or nurse practitioner will do an initial exam. You may be able to get a number of your questions answered while with the nurse.

Your surgeon will discuss several factors regarding surgery during your initial consultation, including your procedure, location, anesthesia, and recovery. In addition, the surgeon will inquire about your concerns, priorities, and motivations for pursuing surgery, as well as your fears.

The doctors are sure to address reasonable expectations for the outcome of your desired procedure, and they should explain what is possible and what is not possible.

After your consultation with the physician, you will meet with the practice manager to discuss procedure costs.

Recovery is an important part of any surgery, and you must take the doctor’s orders to heart if you want to heal as quickly as possible. Once your procedure is complete, a bandage is placed around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. In addition, a thin tube may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin.

You will be given specific instructions that may include: how to care for the surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in overall health, and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.

Results: It may take several months for swelling to fully dissipate and up to six months for incision lines to mature.

Life-long sun protection will help to maintain your rejuvenated appearance by minimizing photo-aging or sun damage. In addition, a healthy lifestyle will also help extend the results of your rejuvenated, more youthful appearance.

Your surgeon and the staff at ReGenesis Plastic Surgery and Skin Care Center will let you know about the risks involved with surgery.

There are a number of things to do prior to your procedure that will make your recovery as smooth as possible and ease your pre-procedure anxiety.

Your surgeon will give you instructions on what medications to stop taking and when prior to your surgery to prevent any unwanted side effects. Medications you shouldn’t take up to two weeks prior to your surgery include, but are not limited to, aspirin and products containing aspirin, alcohol, and herbal supplements. Your surgeon may advise you to take Arnica Montana, Bromelain, or vitamins A or K for swelling, bruising and to promote general healing.

It is important to remember to only take a supplement or herbal remedy if your surgeon advises it.

Anesthesia: You have the choice between intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

The Incision: Your facelift depends on the amount of change you would like to see, and your choices are a traditional facelift, limited incision facelift, or a neck lift.

A traditional facelift incision often begins in the hairline at the temples, continues around the ear, and ends in the lower scalp. Fat may be sculpted or redistributed from the face, jowls, and neck, and underlying tissue is repositioned; commonly the deeper layers of the face and the muscles are also lifted.

Skin is re-draped over the uplifted contours and excess skin is trimmed away. A second incision under the chin may be necessary to further improve an aging neck. Sutures or skin adhesives close the incisions.

Traditional Facelift

An alternative to a traditional facelift uses shorter incisions at the temples, continuing around the ear and possibly within the lower eyelids or under the upper lip.

Limited Incision

Sagging jowls, loose neck skin, and fat accumulation under the chin may be corrected with a neck lift. The neck lift incision often begins in front of the ear lobe and wraps around behind the ear ending in the lower scalp.

Neck Lift
Closing the incisions: Once healed, the incision lines from a facelift are well concealed within the hairline and in the natural contours of the face and ear.

See the results: The visible improvements of a facelift appear as swelling and bruising subside. Your final result should not only restore a more youthful and rested appearance but also help you feel more confident about yourself.