A rhytidectomy, commonly known as a facelift, is a procedure that improves the visible signs of aging in the face and neck areas. It can improve facial sagging, deep creases beneath the lower eyelids and along the sides of the nose and mouth, and loss of muscle tone and loose skin.
While a facelift can improve the signs of aging, it cannot stop the aging process, nor does it change your basic appearance. Talk to your surgeon about if you are a good candidate for this procedure. Be specific about the results you are expecting, and your surgeon will be able to tell you if these expectations are realistic or not.
On the day of your surgery, you will be given anesthesia prior to the procedure. A facelift can have many components to it, such as facial implants, soft tissue augmentation and resurfacing techniques, and wrinkle reduction. The type of surgery you choose will determine where the incisions are placed and how extensive the incisions are. Usually, a facelift involves an incision beginning at the temple, going down in front of the ear, and potentially continuing behind the ear and ending at the lower scalp. Underlying fat and tissue can be removed or redistributed, and the tissue is also tightened. An additional incision can be made under the chin for a neck lift. The facial skin is then redraped around the new facial contours and sealed with sutures.
After your surgery, your face may be minimally wrapped to minimize any bruising or swelling that may occur. It’s possible that you may have a small tube placed at the incision location to help with any fluid drainage. In the weeks following, allow yourself adequate rest and time to heal from your surgery. It may be up to six months for all swelling to go down and for incision lines to fade. In the future, adequate sun protection will be essential to help upkeep your youthful appearance.
For more information about a facelift, call our office at (702) 671-5110 or schedule your appointment online today.