Everything You Wanted to Know About Facelifts

As we get older, our skin naturally loses some of its elasticity, causing wrinkles to appear and the skin to sag. For those who are looking to visibly turn back the clock, rhytidectomy, a.k.a. facelift, might be the answer. A Facelift is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the tissues of the face. Facial tissue is tightened, wrinkles or folds are smoothed out, and excess skin may be removed.

How Much Does a Facelift Cost?

The cost of a facelift will vary largely depending on your desired results, the surgeon’s expertise, and where you are located. In many cases, anesthesia and hospital fees, as well as some other related costs might not be included, so you can expect the final total to be higher.

What’s the Procedure for a Facelift?

Traditionally, an incision is made at the temples near the hairline. There is an incision in front of the ear which goes underneath the earlobe, followed by an incision behind the ears in the lower scalp. The surgeon will reposition fat and tissue beneath the skin to eliminate jowls, lift and tighten the facial skin, and smooth out creases. There may only be a need for a “mini” facelift if there’s no significant sagging of the skin.

Following the procedure, incisions are often closed with skin glue or dissolvable sutures. In some cases, your surgeon may ask you to return to have your stitches removed.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

Even though facelifts are fairly minor and common procedures, as with all surgeries, there are always some risks and potential side effects. You may be at risk of:

• Negative side effects from anesthesia
• Excessive bleeding
• Excessive scarring or pain
• Post-surgery infection
• Cardiac problems
• Issues with wound healing
• Blood clots
• A loss of hair around the incisions
• Swelling that lasts for longer than normal

What To Expect After Surgery

You will experience some pain, discomfort, swelling, and bruising, so pain medication will likely be prescribed after the surgery. These side effects are normal right after a facelift, so don’t worry. You will also be instructed by your doctor when to remove any dressings or drains and when to schedule follow-up appointments. Once the swelling subsides, you’ll begin to see the positive effects of your facelift, but it usually takes several months to see the full results. Expect two weeks before you’re feeling like yourself again and wait up to four weeks before partaking in any strenuous activity.

Facelifts can work wonders for those who wish to alter the natural effects of aging on the skin. Contact the office if you’d like to learn more.