Overview

The most common complaint in patients who undergo a facelift, or rhytidectomy procedure, is that they don’t look as young as they feel. As we age, gravity loosens that the ligaments that suspend our face, while the skin of our face and neck continues to grow. A facelift can help to remove excessive skin and soft tissue, and re-suspend the facial muscles, ligaments and soft tissue of the face and neck. The result of a facelift procedure is a more refreshed, youthful and natural appearance. Dr. Undavia prides himself on not producing stretched, pulled back appearances that you often see in Hollywood stars. In fact, the secret to a good facelift is not appearing if you had any thing done. Your friends might not be able to put their finger on it, but will simply ask you why you look so refreshed.

facelift before facelift after

A facelift typically sets back your appearance 7-10 years. Although it does not stop the aging process, you will always appear 7-10 years younger. After this time, some patients request a “tuck up” procedure, which can help dramatically bring you back to near your original results.

At the time of your facelift consultation, Dr. Undavia will use computer imaging to show you a realistic goal for your face.

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Indications for Facelifts

Most people are unhappy with the sad and tired appearance of their face. Sagging cheeks and jowls with large wrinkles are the most common indications for a facelift procedure.

Facelift Procedure

A facelift procedure is performed under general anesthesia which is administered from a board certified Anesthesiologist. Local anesthesia is also used during surgery to help postoperatively. The layers are of the face are first meticulously dissected. They are then suspended in multiple directions help lift the structures of the face and neck. The excessive fat and skin are removed. The cheek is re-suspended. The incisions are closed with perfect technique to help hide the evidence of surgery. The hairline is also preserved so that there is freedom to keep your hair as you please. If you wish, other procedures can be done at the same time as a facelift, such as eyelid surgery and a forehead lift.

Facelift Surgery Recovery

After facelift surgery is complete, you will have the choice to stay overnight or go home. It is not necessary to stay overnight for facelift surgery recovery, but some patients prefer it. A pressure dressing is applied in the operating room that is removed the following day. Then a more breathable pressure dressing is applied that should be worn for about one week. The sutures are removed between days 5-7. Most patients do not complain of pain during the recovery period. Regular visits are scheduled to check on the surgical site, and to help avoid any potential complications. Swelling and mild bruising is expected, and typically begins to recede at one week. A short course of steroids may be prescribed to help to bring the swelling down more quickly. Antibiotics and pain medication are also prescribed. Most patients will require a down time of 10-14 days. If you have a major event, you can expect to have great results by 30 days, although at 90 days, the results from the facelift are fully achieved.

Alternatives to Facelifts

If a full facelift is not right for you, then there are options that are both surgical and non-surgical. A mini-facelift involves less facial dissection, which in turn results in less swelling and less downtime. The results are not as significant as a full facelift, but this might be appropriate for someone who is more interested in prevention of aging, or someone with minimal signs of aging. There are also some medical conditions in which this might be the better option. A lower facelift only addresses the lower jowls and neck, and might be appropriate for someone with minimal upper face aging.

Additionally, if surgery isn’t for you there are a host of injectables and fillers, as well as skin resurfacing procedures that can help achieve your goals. Please ask us about your non-surgical options.

Patients often ask about the “Lifestyle Lift” which has been aggressively marketed as a quick lift with minimal downtime. While it is true, the results are minimal compared to true face and neck lift, and often short lived. The results last anywhere from 6 months to 2-3 years. And after spending significant sums of money, patients are often unhappy at how minimal the results are. Dr. Undavia does not perform this type of facial rejuvenation.

Facelift FAQ’S

This has changed over time.  Now, we have patients as young as 30 , and as old as 80 getting face lifts.  A facelift is typically recommended for people who want to reduce signs of aging, such as sagging skin or wrinkles.  While most people are in their 60’s and 70’s, a facelift can be done on the very young and the older patients, so long as it is medically safe and is being done for the right reasons. 

Generally, a facelift should not be performed on individuals over the age of 80. During this procedure, the underlying tissue is tightened and reshaped to give a more youthful appearance. Due to natural bodily changes that occur with age, results may not be as successful after a certain point, making the surgery less beneficial.  Other confounding medical problems and health risks can delay healing as well.

Individuals who are not in good health, have a history of scarring, or have a weak immune system may not be good candidates for a facelift. Patients with uncontrolled blood pressure or on blood thinners are not suitable for a facelift.  Smokers are discouraged to have a facelift, as their circulation is compromised.  People who suffer from a hormonal imbalance, such as an underactive thyroid, may also find that the procedure has less successful results.

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