Cosmetic Surgery » Face Lift

Face Lift Surgery

As we age, wrinkles and skin creases form and become pronounced in certain areas. Over time, this and the natural effects of gravity may result in a tired look. For many people, prolonged exposure to the sun, stress and harsh weather elements can make them appear older than their actual age. Designed to reduce the signs of aging and rejuvenate your natural beauty, a face lift surgery can turn back the clock by reshaping or contouring the facial skin. The goal of the face lift surgery is to lift and tighten the sagging skin and muscles of your face and neck. Although it cannot stop the aging process, it can give you a younger, more vital appearance. Facelifts are often done in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures, such as Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift), brow lift and Botox® cosmetic treatments.

Where are the facelift incisions placed? An incision is hidden in the natural contour of your ear, and then extends around the earlobe and back into the hairline. Some patients may be candidates for a "short scar" facelift which requires a much smaller incision that is hidden around the ear and avoids an incision into the scalp. Following surgery, incisions can be easily concealed by your hair or with makeup. There may also be a small incision hidden underneath your chin. How is the Face Lift Surgery performed? The procedure requires that the patient be sedated under anesthesia. Once the patient is readied, the skin is freed from the underlying tissue of the neck and face. This allows the surgeon to tighten the strong, muscle-like tissue beneath. The skin is carefully placed upward and backward to a naturally more youthful position. All excess skin is then removed. Sometimes fatty tissue from beneath the chin is also removed with or without liposuction. Removes the jowls of the cheeks around the jaw line Reduces creases between the cheeks and lips Removes and tightens loose or wrinkled skin Lifts the corners of the mouth It CANNOT correct conditions such as sagging eyebrows, excess skin and fatty deposits in the upper and lower eyelids, or wrinkles around the mouth. Other procedures may be necessary and are available from our physician consultants. Where is it done: In an accredited operating room or hospital Anesthesia: Yes, IV sedation or general Preparation: Some patients require their general doctors provide medical clearance Duration of Surgery: About 3 to 4 hours, depending on how much needs to be done. Healing: Stay the first night in the hospital or hotel room with a registered private duty nurse. The dressing and possibly drains are removed the morning after. Most patients feel well in a few days but are recommended to avoid social contact for up to two weeks due to normal swelling and bruising that may variably occur. Your surgeon will follow up with you in the first week. Risks: Discuss with your surgeon before considering