What happens during a face-lift?
A face-lift, also known as a rhytidectomy, reverses the effects of aging on your face. Dr. Smith customizes face-lift surgery based on your individual needs. Your face-lift surgery may include repositioning muscle, removing excess skin and fatty tissue, and adjusting your facial structure so you look more youthful.
Typically, Dr. Smith makes incisions in inconspicuous areas, such as along your hairline and around your ears, so scars are minimal and barely visible. You might also combine a neck lift and face-lift at the same time to address both loose neck skin and facial skin.
What issues can a face-lift improve?
A face-lift improves the visible signs of aging, including:
- Jowls along your jawline
- Sagging cheeks
- Deep lines and folds around your nose and mouth (nasolabial folds)
- Loss of facial fat
- Sagging skin along your neck, or a double chin
During your consultation, you discuss your concerns with Dr. Smith and he carefully examines your skin and facial structure. For optimal results, he may recommend additional procedures, such as a brow lift or eyelid surgery, that you can undergo at the same time as your face-lift. A face-lift can’t stop the aging process, but it can certainly turn back the clock.
Am I a good candidate for a face-lift?
A face-lift is a highly personalized surgery. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of aging facial features and you’re in overall good health, a face-lift may be the perfect solution. You should also have realistic expectations and a positive outlook, and be willing to follow Dr. Smith’s instructions for recovery.
What is the recovery like after face-lift surgery?
After surgery, depending on the extent of your procedures, you may be able to go home the same day. However, sometimes a night in the hospital is required. You can expect bruising and swelling immediately following surgery, so it’s important to rest for the first 48 hours afterward.
This helps minimize bruising and bleeding. You should also sleep with your head elevated to keep swelling down and avoid strenuous exercise for at least two weeks. Dr. Smith advises you to stay out of the sun for a few months, as well, so as not to damage your skin as you fully recover.
To learn about face-lift surgery and if it’s the right option for you, schedule an appointment online or call the friendly office staff today.
