Facelift
Surgery
Rhytidectomy
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck
INTRODUCTION
What is facelid surgery?
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the face and neck, such as:
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Relaxation of the skin of the face causing sagging
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Deepening of the fold lines between the nose and corner of the mouth
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Fat that has fallen or has disappeared
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Jowls developing in the cheeks and jaw
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Loose skin and excess fat of the neck that can appear as a double chin or "turkey neck"
The loss of youthful contours in the face can be due to variety of factors, including thinning of the skin, loss of facial fat, gravity, sun damage, smoking, as well as heredity and stress.
Other procedures that might be performed in conjunction with a facelift are brow lift and eyelid surgery to rejuvenate aging eyes. Fat transfer or fillers may be suggested to replace the lost fatty volume. Skin treatments such as IPL, dermabrasion, peels or laser may be offered to improve the quality and texture of the skin.
Who is a good candidate for
a facelift?
Facelift surgery is a highly individualized procedure. You should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.
Who is a good candidate for facelift surgery?
In general, good candidates for a facelift include:
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Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that impair healing
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Nonsmokers
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Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations
Your Health & Safety
Before undergoing surgery requiring sedation or general anesthesia, a full medical history including diagnostic tests is recommended. Part of this medical history requires that you provide candid answers to questions about your general state of health, including:
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A full disclosure of health history including any illness, prior surgery of any kind and complications from prior surgery
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All types of allergies and any reaction to prior anesthesia
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Current medications, the use of vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
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The use of oral contraceptives by women
Before surgery, you must follow all of your plastic surgeon's instructions. This may include:
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Cessation of smoking
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Stop taking certain types of medications that may increase your risk of abnormal bleeding
On the day of surgery, you may be asked to:
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Avoid eating or drinking anything within a defined time period prior to surgery
Follow all postoperative instructions carefully, including cleansing and at-home treatment regimens, and avoid sun exposure. Your cooperation will influence the outcome of your surgery.
