Face Lift

FACE LIFT

(Rhytidectomy)

Understanding Face lift

The goal of a face lift, or rytidectomy, is to reduce sagging and loose skin in the face and neck. This goal is accomplished by lifting or repositioning the skin and underlying tissues. Modern techniques tighten the deeper layers or facial tissue as well as the skin, creating a natural look that usually “subtracts” 6 to 10 years from an individual’s appearance.

Who is a candidate for a Face lift?

The ideal candidate for a face lift is someone who is looking for improvement in one or more of the following conditions:

• A neck with wrinkles, excess skin, and loss of the youthful neck contour
• Sagging and deep wrinkles in the cheek areas
• Loss of the normal jaw line and "jowls"
• Deep lines or folds between the nose and mouth

Face lift Surgery

Incisions for facelift surgery are usually placed in the natural contour of the ear and extended around the earlobe and into the hairline. Excess skin is removed and deeper tissues are altered to restore a more youthful contour. There may also be a small incision beneath the chin that allows access to fatty tissue in the jaw line and the cord-like structures in the neck.

Before Surgery

As part of the consultation, Dr. Coley considers skin type, medical history, skin elasticity, and bone structure. Dr. Coley considers these factors, in addition to the patient’s goals, in personalizing each procedure. In order to achieve the most desirable effect, many patients decide to combine several cosmetic procedures. For example, eyelid surgery, facial liposuction, a forehead or brow lift, chin implant, cheek implants, and skin resurfacing are often performed along with a face lift.

During Surgery

Dr. Coley prefers to perform a face lift as an outpatient procedure. The procedure is performed with general anesthesia.  A facelift procedure normally takes between two and four hours.

Understanding the Recovery

The discomfort following face lift is usually minimal. Medications are prescribed to help the patient rest comfortably for the first few days after surgery. Bandages are removed in the office the day after surgery and reveal swelling and bruising, which may be more pronounced in some areas than others. The puffiness and discoloration peaks about 72 hours after surgery and gradually resolves within several weeks. After a few days, makeup can be used to conceal any discoloration. Stitches and staples are removed five to seven days after surgery. Certain activities are restricted after a facelift to protect healing tissues. However, most patients can resume most of their normal activities within two weeks.

Understanding the Results

Since the healing process is gradual, patients should expect to wait at least three to six months for the final results. Most patients enjoy a more youthful appearance and an increased self-confidence for many years.