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A facelift may be done for one of two reasons: to stop the advance of aging, that is, to help relatively young individuals (about age 40 or younger) to appear to stay young; or to help someone who is already well-wrinkled to appear younger and fresher.
Contrary to a common misunderstanding, the facelift is only the basis for a total facial rejuvenation, which would also require eyelid surgery and perhaps laser resurfacing. This is not to say, however, that other operations are necessary for everyone who has a facelift. They are the "finishing touches" in a rejuvenation program.
Facelift FAQs:
What is a facelift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure able to improve signs of facial aging including sagging facial skin, jowls and loose neck skin. Facelifts may be performed at earlier ages, such as forty or younger, to help patients stay looking young or they may be performed at older ages to help already wrinkled patients appear younger and fresher. The procedure involves the removal off excess fat, tightening of the facial muscles, and redraping of the facial skin. Facelifts may be performed as part of a rejuvenation program that may include other procedures like eyelid surgery or laser resurfacing.
Who is the best candidate for a facelift?
Good candidates for a facelift include men and women who are physically healthy, realistic in their expectations and looking to improve the signs of facial aging.
What can I expect during a consultation for a facelift?
During a consultation for a facelift, you will have a one-on-one discussion with the surgeon about your goals. He or she will examine your face, take a thorough medical history, and explain your options. All details of the facelift procedure will be discusses, including the technique, the facility, the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks and the costs. Computerized video imaging may be used to give you a realistic idea of the changes that can be achieved through surgery.
Where is the facelift procedure performed?
Facelifts are often performed in a surgeon's office-based surgical facility though they can also take place in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital.
What type of anesthesia is used for a facelift?
Facelifts are often performed with twilight anesthesia though general anesthesia may be used as well.
How are facelifts performed?
The facelift procedure begins by making an incision, after which the skin is separated from the fat and muscle which lies beneath. The muscle and membrane are tightened, fat may be trimmed or suctioned out from the neck and chin, and the skin is then pulled back and the excess is removed. The incisions are then closed.
How long is the surgical time for a facelift?
Facelifts generally require several hours to perform.
Where are the incisions made for a facelift?
For a traditional facelift, the incision usually begins at the temples above the hairline. It then extends in front of the ear in a natural line, continuing behind the earlobe to the lower scalp. If the neck needs work, an additional small incision may be made under the chin.
Will I have scars after undergoing a facelift?
Facelift do result in scars, though every effort is made to keep them well-concealed within the hairline or the natural creases of the face and ears.
Can I expect much pain after undergoing a facelift?
Though pain medication can be prescribed, patients typically do not experience significant discomfort after the facelift procedure.
Will I need someone to help me out at home after my facelift procedure?
You should arrange for a competent adult to stay with you during the first night after your facelift procedure. If necessary, the surgeon's office may be able to arrange for overnight accommodations and someone to stay with you.
What is the recovery like after a facelift?
Recovery from facelift surgery varies for each individual patient and the details will be discussed during your consultation. In general, however, the skin may feel numb for several weeks. Bruising and swelling often occurs, with most of the bruising fading within two to three weeks. Bandages are usually removed within one to five days after surgery.
How much time will I need to take off from work after undergoing facelift?
Patients typically need to take ten to fourteen days off of work after the facelift surgery.
When can I exercise after undergoing a facelift?
Exercise can usually be resumed within two or more weeks after the facelift procedure. Sun exposure, however, will need to be limited for several months.
When are the stitches removed after the facelift procedure?
The stitches are usually removed in about five days after facelift surgery.
What are the risks or complications associated with facelift surgery?
The potential complications associated with facelift surgery may include adverse anesthesia reactions, asymmetry, bleeding, excessive scarring, infection, nerve injury and poor healing.
Does insurance cover the cost of a facelift?
Because facelifts are typically considered elective surgery, they are usually not covered by insurance.
How long do the results of a facelift last?
Though the face will continue to age with time, patients will look better having undergone a facelift than they would have without one. Some patients opt to have a touch-up procedure around five to ten years after facelift surgery.
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