Has the thought of getting a facelift crossed your mind, but you’re somewhat apprehensive because you’re not sure what’s involved in the procedure? That’s understandable since various approaches can be used to perform a facelift and today’s methods provide more comprehensive results.
What Is A Facelift?
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that reduces signs of aging in the mid-to-lower face and neck. Wrinkles, loose skin, deep creases, and folds can all be addressed with a facelift. The procedure also lifts the cheeks and improves the definition of the jawline and neck.
Facelift surgery is an outpatient procedure that is done under local anesthesia with oral IV or general anesthesia, and takes about 2 hours to perform.
Different techniques can be used to perform a facelift, including the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) facelift.
SMAS Facelift
The SMAS facelift is a less invasive option than the traditional facelift and provides results that look more natural. This facelift technique lifts sagging skin, removes excess skin, and tightens the underlying muscles in the mid-to-lower face.
The incisions are typically made around the hairline above the temples and may extend around the earlobe and behind the ear. As a result, the scars are very discrete.
During a SMAS facelift, the surgeon will reposition and tighten the SMAS layer, redrape the skin, and then trim away the excess tissue.
Facelift surgery is done on an outpatient basis, so patients leave the surgical facility the same day. The face is wrapped in bandages, and in some cases, small drain tubes are inserted to remove excess fluid that may accumulate during the healing process.
Facelift Recovery
There is usually some swelling after a facelift, but most of the swelling should resolve after about two weeks. Recovery time for most patients averages around 10 days, but this may vary depending on factors such as age, the complexity of the procedure, and overall health.
How Long Does A Facelift Last?
The results of a facelift typically last an average of 10 years. However, the longevity of a facelift can be influenced by several variables, including skincare routine, skin quality, and lifestyle choices.
Are You A Good Candidate For A Facelift?
If you have loose skin around the eyes and mouth, creases, folds, volume loss in the mid-face region, jowls, as well as other signs of aging on the face and neck, you may be a good candidate for a facelift.
Choosing A Surgeon For Your Facelift
The results of a facelift can be very satisfying if the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced facial plastic surgeon. A facial plastic surgeon has the necessary training and expertise in face and neck procedures, and is therefore well-suited to perform a facelift.
The goal of facelift surgery is to help patients look like a younger version of themselves, not to make them look different. When you choose a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with a reputation for delivering natural-looking outcomes, you won’t have to be worried about looking like you’ve had ‘work done.’
When selecting a surgeon, it’s also essential to review before-and-after photos of previous facelift patients, as this will give you a good idea of the type of results you can expect.
In order to get the best facelift results, it’s also essential to clearly explain your desires and expectations to the surgeon, so that he/she understands your aesthetic goals.
If you decide to get a facelift to refresh your face and restore youthful contours, be sure to have realistic expectations of the procedure and choose a surgeon you feel comfortable with.