Rhytidectomy (Facelift)
Facial aging is influenced by descent and redistribution of skin and fatty tissue, loss of skin elasticity, stress, exposure to the elements, and genetics. This operation lifts the skin and deeper muscles of the face to smooth wrinkles, lift the cheeks, and minimize nasolabial folds (lines running from sides of nose down to mouth) and/or jowl formation. A facelift can leave you looking rested and more youthful without changing your individual facial qualities. This procedure can make you look 10 – 15 years younger and the result may last for many years. Facelifts are often done in combination with blepharoplasties (eye lift), a brow or forehead lift, fat grafting, or submental liposuction.
Incisions for a facelift typically run in front of the ear, behind the ear, and into the hairline. A small incision under the chin may also be necessary to correct platysmal (neck) banding and/or to perform liposuction.
Though rare, post-operative complications are possible. These can include bleeding (hematoma), infection, asymmetry, unsatisfactory scarring, and facial nerve paresis. Altered sensations (numbness, tingling, and/or hypersensitivity) are to be expected while you are healing and can persist for several weeks or months. Our health care team follows you closely to recognize and treat any complications, should they arise.
Other procedures may be recommended to further enhance and preserve your surgical results. These could include neuromodulator or dermal filler injections, use of medical-grade skincare products, and/or laser or light therapy treatment.
Consultation for this procedure includes a full exam of the proposed surgical area(s), review of patient goals, education on the procedure(s), explanation of potential risks, complications, and benefits; imaging with the VECTRA® 3D system, and VISIA® skin analysis.
Additional details:
Anesthesia: Monitored Sedation
Length: Approximately 3-6 hours
Preparation:
Prior to booking, you should ensure you have a responsible adult available to care for and assist you, including 24/7 support for the first 3-5 days. We also recommend having someone available to drive you to your post-op appointment(s). You must be prepared to pay a 15% deposit to secure your surgical date, and the remaining balance four weeks prior to your procedure.
Facelift patients may be asked to stay at the adjoining hotel (Parkside) for one night post-surgery. Your surgeon will discuss this with you, if applicable. Fees associated with this stay are in addition to the surgical procedure quote and would be the responsibility of the patient. Patients who have been assessed by the Medical Aesthetics team may also be started on medical-grade skincare products at least 4-6 weeks prior to surgery.
Recovery:
Moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort are to be expected. You will be seen in office by our postoperative nurses around day five post-op, and additionally as needed. They will assist you with incision care, suture removal, assessment of the surgical sites, and long-term scar management. Although camouflage makeup can help to conceal bruising, most patients are away from work for 2–3 weeks after their surgery. For patients hoping to keep their surgical decision confidential, we suggest leaving at least 21 days after surgery prior to planning any social engagements or return to work. You must refrain from strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and any activities where your head is below your heart, for about 4-6 weeks after surgery.
As with any surgery, results cannot be guaranteed. The goals of cosmetic plastic surgery are improvement and rejuvenation, and perfection is not attainable. Final results depend on many factors and healing can vary from patient to patient. It is important to remember to have patience during convalescence to allow your body time to recuperate and settle.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
Patients will be seen in office by the surgeon approximately 4-6 months after surgery for assessment and postoperative photographs. You may return for medical aesthetics management after six weeks.
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