Questions about Facelift Surgery

Facial Plastic Surgery in Charleston, SC

What is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that can improve some of the visible signs of aging in the face and neck.

What does a Facelift correct?

There are many different kinds of facelifts, and each one addresses a different combination of signs of facial aging. Your facelift may address:

• Midface sagging
• Deep creases below the lower eyelids, along the nose, or at the corners of the mouth
• Sunken fat deposits that can give your face a drawn appearance
• Jowls
• Loose skin
• Excess fat under the chin or on the neck
• Banding of the neck ("turkey neck")

Before recommending a procedure, Charleston, South Carolina plastic surgeon Dr. Brian G. Widenhouse will evaluate your symptoms of aging and your facial anatomy to determine what a facelift might be able to accomplish for you.

Am I a good candidate for a Facelift?

A facelift candidate should be in good general health with a positive outlook and concrete, realistic expectations for the procedure. In addition, because smoking can adversely affect skin health and diminish the results of the procedure, an ideal candidate for a facelift is a non-smoker. You can look at Are You a Candidate for Cosmetic Surgery? for more information. The best way to learn if you are a candidate for a facelift is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Widenhouse that will include an evaluation of your candidacy.

What is a Facelift procedure like?

Normally, a facelift is performed with IV anesthesia in our on-site surgical suite. The procedure typically takes between 2-3 hours. The actual incisions used depend on what variation is used, but they are generally placed near the ear where they are well-concealed.

What is recovery from a Facelift procedure like?

You will be unable to drive yourself home after your face lift, so be sure to arrange a ride. It is also recommended that you have someone stay with you for the first night after surgery. Typically, discomfort from a facelift procedure will be controlled with prescription medication. Your face will be bruised and swollen initially. Most people will be able to return to work within a week or two, although for some people bruising may persist.

What will the results of my Facelift be?

It is impossible to predict specific results, but most people experience a rejuvenation of the face that includes fewer wrinkles and a more youthful facial contour. With persistent swelling, it may be up to six months for final results to be visible. You can maximize your results by caring for your skin by using sunscreen and by not smoking.

What are the risks of a Facelift procedure?

All surgery carries some risk. Please see our page on surgical complications to learn more.

Are there alternatives to a Facelift procedure?

Nothing gives the same level of correction of facial aging or longevity of results that a facelift gives. People with less dramatic signs of facial aging may be able to get good results with SmartLipo™ or Nonsurgical Procedures like BOTOX® Cosmetic Injections or Laser Skin Resurfacing.

Why should I choose Dr. Widenhouse for my Facelift procedure?

Dr. Widenhouse is a board-certified plastic surgeon. This means he has met the highest standards in the nation for plastic surgery. He performs surgeries in a fully-accredited ambulatory surgical center for your safety, comfort, and privacy. Dr. Widenhouse also founded Port City Plastic Surgery to give all his patients the personal touch he believes is necessary to give them the best possible results from their plastic surgery.

If you would like to learn more about facelifts at Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina, please call or email us today to schedule a consultation.