Facelift

Aging is a natural part of life, but some of the changes the aging face undergoes can be bothersome to patients.  The skin begins to sag creating deepening skin folds, particularly around the mouth.  The sharp jaw line becomes ill defined as the “jowls” or skin laxity of the jaw line becomes more pronounced.  The Cheek bones begin to become less pronounced, and a generalized loss of soft tissue volume occurs.  The neck may also develop significant skin laxity as well as “bands” caused by a prominent muscle edges of the platysma muscle (superficial muscle in the neck).

These changes vary, and can be accompanied by many other findings.  A variety of factors play into the facial aging process including genetics, sun damage and smoking status.  

The facelift helps to correct many of these age related cosmetic findings to produce a more youthful face and neck.  Generally, excess skin is removed, the facial soft tissues are re-suspended, and the neck muscles can be tightened to improve the banding.

There are multiple different techniques to facelifts.  The incision generally starts just below your sideburn and follows the contour of your ear, and courses behind your ea

During your consultation, an extensive discussion will be centered around the right treatment for you, and how to address the concerns for you as an individual.

Post operative Expecations

You should expect swelling and some bruising after facelift surgery.  An overnight stay is mandatory, so you can be watched closely in the immediate post operative period.  Your sutures are removed at 5-7 days post op.  Bruising generally resolves by 1-2 weeks after surgery.  You may generally resume cardiovascular activities and exercise at 3 weeks post op.  An extensive post operative discussion as well as instructions will be reviewed prior to your surgery