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The facelift (technically known as rhytidectomy) is currently the third most popular facial plastic surgical procedure. A facelift is a highly effective solution for an aging or tired appearance, which can reverse the effects of gravity, sun exposure and daily stress by adjusting the tissue of the neck and lower face.
Who is a good candidate for this procedure?
Most facelift patients are in their forties to sixties; however, facelifts can be performed on patients in their seventies and eighties as well, health permitting. A good candidate is someone who has sagging of the skin of the neck and lower face but still has some elasticity present.
What is involved in this procedure?
A facelift is usually performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting to provide maximum comfort. The procedure is fairly complex and takes several hours to complete. Incisions are made behind the ears, which will be well hidden in natural creases and shadows. Skin of the face and neck is elevated as necessary and tightened in the proper direction. The muscle tissue envelope underneath the skin is tightened separately to ensure a natural look.
After the procedure, a large and fairly tight dressing is applied to prevent the accumulation of blood beneath the skin. Pain medications are prescribed to ensure a comfortable recovery. The dressings are removed the day after the procedure. For best results, it is important to follow all post-operative instructions, such as head elevation and application of ice packs. Sutures are removed a week after surgery.
Following a facelift, patients will likely experience bruising and swelling of the face and neck which resolves gradually. Recovery typically takes two to three weeks, so it is recommended that sufficient time off of work is arranged.
Can additional procedures be performed with a facelift?
Many patients choose to have additional cosmetic procedures performed with a facelift in order to enhance results. There are several options but most commonly a facelift is combined with a brow lift and/or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) for additional rejuvenation of the upper half of the face. Occasionally, Facial Implants or other adjunctive procedures can help to achieve the best aesthetic balance, and can be performed at the same setting or separately.
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