Facelift Options

As we age, we develop fine and deep lines in our skin. Our faces may begin to show all the signs of aging we were hoping to avoid. One way we can visually turn back the clock is with Facelift surgery.

What Exactly Is A Facelift?

A facelift is a form of cosmetic surgery which tightens the skin of the face to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. The procedure generally involves tightening the skin in front of the ears, jawline and neck.

In a facelift, the surgeon will pull and remove skin on either side of the face. Then the tissues beneath the skin will be firmed up to make the facial contours look tauter and more youthful. Any excess tissue will be removed and discreet incisions with sutures are made.

There are non-surgical options available for a facelift as well. Most of these options require injections of some kind. For example, Botox injections are a form of non-surgical facelift.

Types of Facelifts

Which type of facelift is right for you will depend on the desired outcome and the conversation that will be had with your facial plastic surgeon.

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with the procedure and preparations which the patient must make before the surgery. There are several types of facelifts, but let’s look at the lower facelift and the standard or full facelift.

Lower Facelift

People who want or need a less invasive procedure skin in early stages of aging or more minor degrees of jowling (the result when skin loses elasticity and begins to sag around the chin and neck) might opt for a lower facelift. A lower facelift uses shorter incisions in the hairline and creases around the ear to lift the tissue around the cheeks and tighten jowling. It also creates a refined jawline and a less tired look.

A lower facelift can help reduce the signs of aging before a more involved procedure is warranted. The lower facelift is typically performed with anesthesia, which will depend on the individual patient’s case. The cosmetic surgeon will make recommendations regarding procedures and anesthesia.

Full Facelift

A standard facelift is likely what comes to mind when you think of a facelift. It’s a more extensive surgery than a lower facelift which will require more recovery time. However, the results of a standard facelift are more pronounced than those of a lower facelift.

The surgeon can reposition tissues beneath the skin, remove excess skin, eliminate the appearance of jowling and sagging, and give you a more youthful appearance if you opt for a standard facelift. The incisions for this procedure are also typically in the hairline, but they start near the temple. Other incisions are made around the front of your ear and in the natural folds of your skin. This procedure also involves treatments around the eyes and forehead to provide a full-facial rejuvenation.

Final Thoughts

For those who wish to retain or regain a youthful and contoured face, a facelift might be worth considering. If you think you’d benefit from a facelift, get in touch with us and we’d love to discuss your options.