What is a facelift?
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that reduces the visible signs of aging in the face and neck.
When should you consider a facelift?
Facelifts range from small to large cases, and are dependent on the severity of each patient.
For patients that have a minimal amount of aging and loose skin can achieve their goals with less treatments. Patients dealing with more may need a combination of different treatments to achieve their desired look. During your initial consultation, our facelift specialist will identify your personal goals and provide you with different options to achieve the look you want.
Benefits of a facelift
- Tighten facial areas with loose skin
- Smoothen creases around the mouth and nose
- Improved contour on the chin and neck
- Boost in confidence and self-esteem
The biggest benefit of getting a facelift is in rejuvenating your youth. Modern face lift techniques are more sophisticated than ever, capable of making you look years younger. Aside from looking younger, patients also benefit from a major boost in confidence and self-esteem.
Different types of facelifts
Traditional Full Facelift
A full facelift offers the most comprehensive results. With this procedure, the doctor can address deep creases below the eyes, sagging around the cheeks, lines around the mouth, excess fat and skin under the chin, jowls, and more. Because it targets a larger area, the treatment requires a longer incision. It usually runs along the temple, around the ear, and down to the neck, as described above. Full facelifts can address more dramatic signs of aging, and, thus, they are popular among patients in their 50's and 60's.Mid Facelift
During a mid facelift, a surgeon can lift and tighten the tissues below the eyes and around the cheeks. To perform this procedure the doctor will create incisions that are similar to those used in a traditional facelift, but they will typically be deeper. This technique allows him to lift the muscles that are normally untouched by a traditional facelift. He may also use fat grafting or facial implants to enhance contours and create more defined cheekbones. Because this procedure does not address all the signs of aging, it is often suitable for men and women in their 30's and 40's who are simply looking to rejuvenate their appearance.Mini Facelift
Mini facelifts involve smaller incisions and a shorter recovery time, which is why this procedure is sometimes referred to as a "weekend facelift." As with the mid facelift, this surgery targets a smaller area, primarily treating the jaw, lower cheeks, and neck. The doctor will usually locate the incisions along the hairline and behind the ear. Through these incisions, the doctor will lift the muscles, remove fat unwanted fat deposits, and eliminate excess skin. Many surgeons perform mini facelifts using endoscopic techniques. Like mid facelifts, this procedure is common among somewhat younger patients who are showing the first signs of aging.Lower Facelift
As the name implies, lower facelifts target the bottom third of the face. This procedure can be an excellent way to eliminate jowls, reduce deep nasolabial folds, lift the sagging corners of the mouth, and enhance the jaw. The procedure itself is similar to other types of facelifts, and the doctor will create incisions along the patient's ears and hairline. Lower facelifts are suitable for patients of all ages who want to decrease the signs of aging and enjoy a more youthful appearance.Who is a candidate for facelifts?
Facelift surgery can be an effective way to improve appearance and boost self-confidence, but it is not for everyone. Some patients might find that they can achieve their cosmetic goals with a non-invasive procedure, such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion. Others may be happier with their results if they combine facelift surgery with other procedures, such as a neck lift or forehead lift (also known as a brow lift). Patients who understand both the possibilities and limitations of facelift surgery tend to be more pleased with their results.
Am I a good candidate for a facelift?
The best facelift candidates have realistic expectations and are willing and able to follow the pre- and post-operative instructions provided by their plastic surgeons. After a one-on-one consultation, our facelift specialist can advise a patient as to whether he or she is a good candidate for a facelift, or whether an alternate procedure might be preferable.
Ideal candidates for facelift surgery share certain important traits. The following is a list of factors that can affect whether or not an individual is a good candidate for facelift surgery:
Skin elasticity : A good facelift candidate will have skin that retains some of its natural suppleness and flexibility. This is important because, during the procedure, the surgeon tightens the facial skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Successful healing with optimal results depends on having skin that is able to conform to its new, improved contours.
Strong bone structure : Ideally, a facelift candidate will have a well-defined underlying bone structure to provide support and contribute to satisfying results. Patients with less distinct features may benefit from facial implants as an alternative or addition to a facelift.
Realistic expectations : A candidate should understand not only what facelifts can accomplish, but also the limitations of facial plastic surgery procedures. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon can help a patient obtain the information needed to make the right decision about surgery.
Good overall health : A good facelift candidate will be generally healthy and will inform his or her surgeon of any preexisting medical conditions well in advance. A facelift is an invasive procedure that requires significant healing and recovery, so it is essential that the patient be physically prepared for surgery.
Loose skin on the face or neck : Facelift candidates typically want to remove excess skin from the face or neck, tightening skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles simultaneouslyOur facelift specialist trims the loose skin during the procedure.
Schedule your facelift consultation today
Contact us today to schedule a consultation to see how you can benefit from a facelift!