A Facelift (Rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure designed to smooth and firm the skin, providing a fresh, youthful appearance.  Throughout one’s life, the sun’s radiation, stress, gravity, and other factors cause the skin to sag and fit more loosely.  Areas of the face and neck, in particular around the jaw line, are especially prone to the aging process.  Though these changes are gradual, wrinkles and other signs of aging can make individuals “feel older” than they really are.

Surgery for a facelift involves repositioning of facial and neck skin and underlying tissues, and in some instances the removal of excess fat deposits.  A facelift is often performed in combination with other facial cosmetic procedures and can be performed any time signs of aging begin to appear. A neck lift is typically performed in conjunction with a facelift, but can also be performed in a limited technique. Overall, it is important to maintain harmony throughout the face. A tightly toned neck with sagging facial contours leads to an artificial appearance. It is helpful to review your goals with your surgeon in order to formulate a surgical plan that best suits you.

Reasons for Considering a Facelift:

  • Sagging skin, muscles, and fat in the face and neck.
  • Excess skin and fat on the neck.
  • Sagging jaw line.
  • Crease lines along the nose, mouth, and chin.

General Procedure

The standard procedure for a facelift commonly involves making small incisions just inside the hairline, following the contour in front of the ear, and continuing under the earlobe to the backside of the ear and to the lower scalp.  The underlying tissue is repositioned, excess fat is removed, the skin is repositioned, and any excess skin is removed.  Current techniques avoid the “wind-tunnel” appearance by tailoring the repositioning of the tissues separately. If the neck line requires attention, an additional incision is made under the chin and the same procedure is again followed.  Fine stitches are used to close the incisions and to reduce any chance of scarring.

A face lift may take several hours or longer depending on whether other cosmetic procedures are completed at the same time.  Sometimes other procedures may be performed in separate appointments.  There are several different facelift techniques that can be employed.  Patients can discuss with their physician which method is best for them when they come in for their consultation.

Recovery Process

Immediately after surgery, the face is fitted with bandages in order to decrease the recovery time and to reduce swelling.  Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing and recovery process. The stitches are normally removed within a week. Patients sometimes report some minor pain associated with surgery.  Any discomfort can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given after the procedure.