|
One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is “How do I know if I’m ready for a Facelift?” How we age has been genetically pre-programmed. This is out of our control. Some of the lifestyle choices we make play a dominant role influencing the aging process. The predominant factors include nutrition, diet, exercise, stress, smoking, and sun exposure. There is no set age when this procedure should be performed. Most commonly the patients are in the 40-60 age range. However, the procedure can produce excellent results for younger or older individuals as well.
At the present time the loss of the elasticity of the skin is irreversible. There are many products and devices on the market which falsely claim to reverse this process. None have been proven scientifically. Currently, this is an area of extensive research. As technical advances progress, this problem will be solved. I feel we are still five to ten years away from an acceptable solution. At the present time your options include aging gracefully or undergoing a Facelift.
The Facelift (Rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure used to smooth the loose skin on your face and neck and to reduce the most apparent signs of aging in the facial area, giving you a more youthful appearance. The procedure involves reducing the slacking jaw line and sagging jowls and fat deposits around the neck by removing excess fat and tightening underlying muscles, and redraping the skin on the face and neck. As a result, your face will appear firmer and fresher.
There are many variations to the facelift procedure. Some of these include the Mini, Short Scar, Deep Plane, SMAS, Skin only, Skin/Muscle. A common denominator to all these procedures is the incision which is hidden in the hairline and follows the natural contour of the ear. Following the surgery the incisions are easily covered by makeup and concealed by the hair. Frequently, a small incision is made under the chin to remove fat in the neck or along the jaw line and to smooth the cord-like structures of the underlying muscle in the neck. Your options will be thoroughly discussed with you during your consultation.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from 2 ½ to 5 hours, depending on what needs to be done to obtain the best results. Frequently, additional procedures such as a Blepharoplasty or Browlift are performed at the same time. After the surgery you can return to the comfort of your home, under the care of a loved one. Generally, there is no need to stay in the hospital overnight.
Surprisingly, there is very little pain associated with this surgery. Most patients describe a mild discomfort associated with a tight feeling in the cheeks and neck. The skin will feel numb to the touch for several months. Within a few days after the procedure the dressing covering the ears and neck is removed revealing some underlying swelling and bruising which for the most part subsides in 2-3 weeks. At that time one is able to return to work or full exercise.
The surgery will make you look refreshed and rejuvenated. My goal is to achieve a natural appearance and not make you look “wind blown”. You will be pleased with the new you and the compliments you receive from loved ones.
Click here for more Procedure Information
|
