Facelift (in combination with Neck Lift)

As we age, every part of our body undergoes changes, but the face is often the first to show visible signs. The cumulative effects of gravity and reduced collagen lead to sagging or loose skin, particularly around the face. Many people begin to notice these changes in their 40s and 50s and seek to tighten or remove loose skin to restore a more youthful appearance. A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. By removing excess skin and repositioning underlying facial tissues and muscles, a facelift tightens sagging skin, smooths deep folds, and improves the overall contour of the face and jawline, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance. The results of facelifts are often more desirable with neck lifts, so our team typically performs facelifts in combination with neck lifts. However, we also perform neck lifts without facelifts.

Why is a Facelift Done?

A facelift is performed for various reasons, including:

• Tightening loose or sagging skin on the face and neck.
• Tightening underlying facial tissues.
• Improving the shape and definition of the cheeks and jawline.
• Addressing sagging skin around the jawline.
• Tightening loose skin and reducing excess fat in the neck and chin area.
• Reducing the appearance of deep creases around the nose and mouth, in combination with fat transfer and liposculpture.

A facelift can address multiple signs of aging, making it a great solution for individuals seeking a more youthful appearance.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

Most healthy individuals without significant medical conditions are suitable candidates for a facelift. Ideal candidates are those who:

• Have visible signs of aging in the face and neck.
• Are bothered by the appearance of sagging skin or deep folds in the face and neck.
• Desire a more youthful and refreshed facial appearance.
• Are physically healthy and do not have medical conditions that can impair healing.
• Have a positive outlook and specific, realistic goals for improving their appearance.
• Are non-smokers or willing to quit smoking for a significant period before and after surgery.

Patients who are not good candidates include those with complex medical conditions that can impair healing, have unrealistic expectations, or are unable to follow post-surgical care instructions.

What Happens During the Surgery

A facelift can be performed in an outpatient surgical center, a hospital, or a surgeon’s office-based surgical facility. Although there are different types of facelifts, our team specializes in a Deep Plane Facelift in combination with a neck lift. Regardless of your type of face lift, your surgeon will tailor the process according to your desired outcome, anatomy, and any other complementary procedures. During the procedure, the patient is given general anesthesia which induces deep sleep, allowing the patient to remain pain-free throughout the process. Our surgeons typically begin the process with liposuction from the abdomen or inner thighs, transferring the fat tissue to the face (lipofilling) to replace volume, and then using micro liposuction to sculpt and better define the face (liposculpture) before starting the face and neck lift. The surgeon then makes incisions in front of and behind the ears, extending into the hairline as one continuous incision, with a separate incision just under the chin. The surgeon lifts and repositions the underlying tissues, removes excess fat, tightens muscles, and re-drapes the skin over the new contours of the face. The incisions are closed with sutures, and drains are used to reduce bruising and swelling.

Recovery after a Facelift

Recovery from a facelift typically involves swelling and bruising during the first few days, which gradually subsides over the following weeks. You may also have temporary surgical drains for fluid drainage to minimize swelling and bruising. It is crucial to keep your head elevated higher than your chest to reduce bleeding and swelling. If possible, sleep with extra pillows during the first week to help relieve swelling. You may experience tightness and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications and ice-cold water soaks.

Following all post-operative care instructions, including keeping the surgical site clean and dry, is essential for a smooth recovery. Most swelling and bruising will peak on the third to fourth day after surgery. By the third week, most of the swelling and bruising will have subsided, and most people find themselves ready to return to their normal routine. However, avoid strenuous activities to minimize swelling and support proper healing.

By week three, you will feel much better. As your incisions heal, they may appear slightly pink but will eventually fade. Stay away from sunlight and wear good sunscreen. Refrain from smoking and alcohol to promote optimal healing and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns. Although everyone heals at a different rate, most patients can return to normal activities within 2 to 3 weeks, with full recovery and final results becoming more visible within 3 to 6 months.

FAQ

How painful is a facelift?
Pain after a facelift is typically minimal and can be managed with prescribed medication. Most patients report discomfort rather than severe pain. Since a facelift only uses a few incisions and does not disturb the deep tissues of your face, recovery is much less painful than most people expect.

Will there be visible scars?
The incisions for a facelift are typically made along the hairline, around the ears, and under the chin. They usually fade over time with proper care.

How soon can I return to work?
Most patients can return to work within 2 to 3 weeks, depending on their job and how their healing progresses.

How long do the results last?
The results of a facelift are long-term, although the natural aging process will continue to affect the appearance of the face over time.

Can I combine a facelift with other procedures?
Yes, a facelift can be combined with other surgical procedures such as neck lift as well as fat grafting and liposculpture of the face. It can also be combined with brow lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and/or earlobe reduction surgery for a more comprehensive rejuvenation.

What should I avoid after surgery?
After surgery, patients should avoid strenuous activities, smoking, and alcohol, and follow all post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

Complementary Procedures

Complementary procedures that can enhance the results of a facelift include neck lift as well as fat grafting and liposculpture of the face. It can also be combined with brow lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and/or earlobe reduction surgery. Combining these procedures can provide more harmonious results and a more youthful overall appearance.
 
For more detailed information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.