Facelift
A face-lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at achieving a more youthful appearance by reducing sagging skin and smoothing folds on the cheeks and jawline. The medical term for a face-lift is rhytidectomy.
During a face-lift, the surgeon pulls back a flap of skin on each side of the face, making alterations to the tissues beneath the skin and removing excess skin. This reshaping of the face results in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
In many cases, a neck lift is performed in conjunction with a face-lift to address issues such as fat and sagging skin on the neck.
Why is a facelift needed?
A facelift is performed to address the natural changes that occur in the face as a result of aging. These changes include:
- Sagging cheeks
- Excess skin along the jawline
- Deep folds from the nose to the mouth
- Sagging skin and excess fat in the neck (if a neck lift is included in the procedure)
Facelift Procedure
- During a face-lift procedure, the following steps are typically involved:
- The surgeon elevates the skin and tightens the underlying tissues and muscles.
- Fat in the face and neck may be sculpted, removed, or repositioned.
- The facial skin is re-draped over the newly repositioned contours of the face.
- Excess skin is trimmed and removed.
- The incisions are closed using sutures or adhesive tape.
The specific incisions used in a face-lift procedure can vary depending on the techniques employed and the patient’s preferences. Some common options include:
Traditional face-lift incision: This incision starts at the temples in the hairline, extends down and around the front of the ears, and ends behind the ears in the lower scalp. An additional incision might be made under the chin for neck improvement.
Limited incision: A shorter incision that begins in the hairline just above the ear, wraps around the front of the ear, but does not extend into the lower scalp.
Neck lift incision: It starts in front of the earlobe, continues around the ear into the lower scalp, and may include a small incision under the chin.
The duration of a face-lift procedure generally ranges from 3 to 6 hours, but it may take longer if additional cosmetic procedures are performed simultaneously.
Facelift FAQs
How Long Do the Results of a Face Lift Last?
Facelift surgery can provide long-lasting results in terms of reducing sagging, tightening the skin, and minimizing wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful appearance. However, it’s important to note that the effects of a facelift are not permanent and will gradually diminish over time as the natural aging process continues.
The longevity of the results can vary from person to person depending on various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, skincare regimen, and overall health. Generally, the results of a facelift can last for several years, and some individuals may enjoy the benefits for a decade or longer. However, as the aging process continues, facial laxity may gradually recur.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery After a Face Lift Surgery?
After a face lift surgery, patients are provided with pain medication to ensure a comfortable recovery. Typically, patients can begin gently washing their face with water after two days. It is important to maintain an upright posture and avoid looking down during the first week to minimize swelling and promote proper healing.