Facelift Guide

Over the years, the facelift procedure has remained one of the most consistent and highly demanded plastic surgery procedures. If you’re looking for an effective solution for signs of aging, then you may want to consider the facelift treatment. Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about this powerful surgery.

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a facial surgery that addresses loose skin, wrinkles and related signs of aging throughout the face. Whether you’re suffering from jowls, excess fat, deep creases and folds, sagging skin or other signs of aging, a facelift can be the perfect solution. This personalized treatment enables patients to address all of these concerns in a single procedure, delivering dramatic results that can make you look many years younger. However, it is important to note that a facelift does not address the browline, forehead or the area around the eyes. To address these areas, you may need to combine your facelift with a complimentary procedure like the brow lift. If you choose to pursue a facelift, however, you have two distinct options:

• Mini Facelift
  • A mini facelift is ideal for patients who are beginning to experience subtle signs of aging, but may not need a comprehensive facial rejuvenation procedure. This treatment primarily targets the jawline to correct sagging jowls and restore youthfulness to the outline of the face.
• Traditional Facelift
  • The typical facelift procedure addresses the same areas as the mini facelift, with additional focus on the midface, including the skin around the mouth and beneath the eyes. This is a more comprehensive procedure, offering more dramatic results and a more youthful appearance than the mini facelift.

What Happens During a Facelift?

Facelift procedures are performed with the aid of general anesthesia, keeping patients safe and comfortable for the duration of the treatment. Once treatment begins, incisions will be made just beyond the hairline, around the ears and occasionally underneath the chin. Through these incisions, excess skin is removed to tighten the appearance and alleviate wrinkles. The underlying tissue will also be repositioned to enhance the facial contours and produce a naturally youthful appearance. Afterwards, the skin is carefully repositioned and the incisions are sealed to safely complete the procedure.

What Happens After a Facelift?

Immediately following a facelift, patients can expect about two weeks of downtime, during which time patients should be prepared to rest as much as possible. Patients can also expect the majority of side effects, including bruising, swelling and discomfort, to develop and subsequently resolve during this time. This means it is often necessary to take time away from work and other activities. Although these treatments are significant procedures, most patients are able to resume their lives as usual within one to two months of treatment. While you may need to take special care during the first two months after treatment, especially in the sunlight, recovery is a fairly predictable and manageable process.

Is a Facelift a Long-Term Solution?

Yes! The results from a facelift are incredibly long-lasting. The treatment effectively resets your facial appearance to a more youthful look. Over time, your new appearance will age naturally. While this procedure cannot prevent future aging, it often takes several years off of the appearance and restores immeasurable confidence.

Is a Facelift Right for Me?

The decision to get a facelift is a personal one, and you may want to discuss your needs with a board certified plastic surgeon to determine if it is really the best fit for you. If you are considering a facelift, contact us today to schedule your consultation at Port City Plastic Surgery, and we can help you find the best solution for your personal goals.