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Facelift
Overview
A facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve visible signs of aging in the face. It focuses on enhancing facial contours and tightening sagging skin to achieve a more youthful appearance.
Indications
- Loose facial skin
- Loss of jawline definition (jowls)
- Prominent creases running from the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Facial volume loss or flattened cheeks
- Loose or hanging skin under the chin
- Wrinkles and creases in the lower face
- Skin laxity after significant weight loss
- Age-related facial muscle weakness
Benefits
- Restores a youthful appearance
- Tightens sagging skin and muscles
- Improves jawline definition and reduces jowls
- Smooths wrinkles and deep folds
- Corrects loose or hanging neck skin
- Repositions fat for balanced facial volume
Description
A facelift is typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure begins with carefully placed incisions, usually starting at the temples, extending around the ears, and sometimes continuing into the lower scalp to ensure minimal visible scarring. Through these incisions, the surgeon repositions facial tissues, tightens underlying muscles, removes excess skin, and redistributes or removes fat to restore youthful facial contours. When combined with other procedures, such as a neck lift or eyelid surgery, a facelift provides comprehensive rejuvenation of the face and neck for a natural, refreshed appearance.
Techniques Used
There are various techniques used based on the patient’s anatomy as well as their goals.
- Mini Facelift
- Deep Place Facelift
- SMAS Facelift
- Revision Facelift
Frequently Asked Questions
Are facelift results permanent?
Facelift results are long-lasting but not permanent, typically lasting 8-12 years. While the procedure resets the aging clock, natural aging continues. Maintenance with non-surgical treatments and healthy lifestyle choices can prolong results, and secondary procedures may be considered over time.
Will there be visible scars?
Facelift scars are typically minimal and strategically placed to be as inconspicuous as possible. Incisions are usually hidden along the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes into the lower scalp. With proper care and skilled surgical technique, scars often fade over time and become barely noticeable. However, individual healing and skin type can affect scar visibility.
What is recovery like after a facelift?
Recovery after a facelift typically involves swelling and bruising, which will gradually improve over the first few weeks. Most patients can resume normal activities within three to four weeks.
When can I see results?
Final facelift results typically become apparent 6-12 months after the procedure, once all swelling has fully subsided and tissues have settled. Initial improvements can be seen within a few weeks, but the final contours and scar fading take longer to fully develop.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes, many patients combine a facelift with procedures like a neck lift, a brow lift, and eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) for a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
What are the potential risks and complications?
Like any surgical procedure, a facelift carries risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve injury, fluid collection, prolonged swelling/bruising or dissatisfaction with results. A comprehensive conversation with your surgeon should address these concerns.
How do I prepare for a facelift?
Your surgeon will provide pre-operative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications, stopping smoking, and arranging for post-operative care.