Surgical Procedures & Innovations Cosmetic Procedures

Face & Neck

A facelift, also referred to as rhytidectomy, can minimize the effects of aging on the face. Candidates for facelift surgery include people with loose skin and fat around the face and neck, creases along the mouth and forehead, and jowls around the jaw line. A facelift works by removing fat deposits, eliminating excess skin, and tightening the muscles that cause wrinkles or droopy skin.

Even though the results of facelift surgery can last a long time, your skin will continue to age. Repeat procedures can be performed but are usually not necessary. Many patients find that their youthful face gives them the confidence they seek for years after facelift surgery.

Technique

The procedure often begins with an incision at the temples, just above the ear, that extends along the inside of the scalp in front of the ear to behind the earlobe. For work in the neck region, an incision is made under the chin. Many procedures can be performed endoscopically through 5 or 6 tiny incisions instead of a linear incision.

After the incisions are made, the skin is separated from the muscle and fatty tissue. Excess fat is trimmed, and the surgeon shifts and tightens the underlying muscle and tissue. Skin is then pulled and sutured back into place.

Anesthesia

Facelift surgery is typically performed under a local anesthetic, but can be done using general anesthesia.

Before Surgery

• If you are a smoker, stop smoking to aid in healing.
• Have available saline eyedrops and plenty of ice for post-surgery care.

Recovery

• You will need to keep your head elevated for several days.
• Swelling and bruising will subside after about two weeks.
• Most patients resume work and daily activities in about ten days — two weeks.
• Scars are inconspicuous, usually hidden by hair or in natural creases of the ears.

Results

Pre-op	Pre-op
Post-op	Post-op

Pre-op

Post-op

Pre-op

Post-op