A Facelift (Rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin from the face and neck,  providing a fresh, youthful appearance.  Throughout one’s life, the sun exposure, stress, gravity, and the nautral aging process cause the skin to sag and fit more loosely.  Areas of the face and neck, in particular around the jaw line, are especially prone to the aging process.  Though these changes are gradual, wrinkles and other signs of aging can make individuals look and feel older than they really are.  We often hear patients say "I feel younger than I look in the mirror."

    Surgery for a facelift involves the removal and realignment of facial and neck skin, and in some instances the removal of excess fat deposits.  A facelift can be performed any time signs of aging begin to appear; most patients are in their forties or older when they elect to undergo this procedure. 

Reasons for Considering a Facelift:

• Loose skin along the jawline, face and neck.
• Sagging skin on the neck with "bands"
• Loss of definition of the jawline
• Excess wrinkles (rhytids) of the facial skin

General Procedure

    The standard procedure for a facelift commonly involves making incisions near the hairline,  around the ears and under the chin.  Skin is elevated and muscle bands are repaired in the neck.  The facial muscles are then tightened as well.  Excess skin is removed and the skin is redraped and sutured closed.  Soft bulky dressings are applied and the patient must rest quietly with the head elevated. 

  A face lift takes about 4 hours and is performed with the patient under anesthesia, usually as an outpatient.  You will need about 2 weeks to take it easy.  Patients can discuss with their physician which areas are the most concerning and how they can be best addressed. 

Recovery Process

     Soft wraps are applied to the face and  the head is kept elevated.  Pain is minimal and well controlled with oral medication.   It is important to take it easy to minimize bruising, swelling or risk of bleeding.  This will also speed up the healing and recovery process.  The stitches are normally removed within a week.  Some of the sutures are dissolvable.   While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given after the procedure.