Facelift
Rhytidectomy, commonly referred to as a facelift, is a medical procedure designed to improve the looks of the face by pulling the skin and tissues beneath it tighter, as well as repositioning them. This operation ordinarily focuses on the lower part of the face and neck, and usually requires incisions in the area of the ears and underneath the chin. Depending on the individual's needs and the methods employed by the doctor, the procedure may also involve eliminating any surplus skin and fat, and firming up the deeper tissues to increase the overall structure of the face. It may take up to several weeks for the patient to get back to their daily activities after the surgery.
What is a Facelift Procedure?
Facelift surgery is a cosmetic procedure to help counteract the signs of aging by tightening the deep tissues beneath the cheeks, jaws, and neck. The procedure aims to reduce drooping or sagging skin around the lower region of the face and neck.
The facelift procedure is often combined with other surgical procedures, such as brow lift, eyelid surgery, fat grafting, lip lift, chin implants, or rhinoplasty. I’m
A facelift does not help correct damage from sun exposure, such as pigment changes, fine lines or wrinkles. Non-surgical treatments, such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser skin resurfacing of the face, are sometimes undertaken simultaneously with the facelift. These treatments aim to treat sun-damaged skin, crow’s feet around the eyes, and fine lines around the mouth which are outside the scope of facelift surgery.
Plastic surgeons often recommend facelift surgery to patients experiencing sagging or loose skin in different parts of the face, including the cheeks, the mouth area, or the jaw.
Other patients who can be candidates for a facelift are those who have:
Deep wrinkles underneath the lower lids
Deep wrinkles in the nasolabial fold or under the nose and around the mouth
Sagging skin in the lower face as a result of significant weight loss
The presence of excess fat deposits and loose skin underneath the jaw and chin (double chin), even with normal weight
Facelift surgery typically includes many steps in order to rejuvenate multiple layers of the facial structure. Simple, short-scar facelifts may be appropriate for younger patients who only need a moderate skin removal and minimal tightening of the upper neck. Older patients with more prominent signs of facial aging may need work on the deep muscle tissues, the fat plane, and the skin. This can include fat removal, repositioning or even augmentation with fat grafting, as well as deep sutures (and sometimes mesh materials) to pull on the sagging muscle support layer. The surgeon uses sutures to elevate the supporting facial layers of the face and neck, and then the skin is repositioned after removing the excess mass.
The facelift surgery can be performed under local or general anesthesia, or a combination of both, and lasts for a few hours.
Ask your Plastic Surgeon for more information on the planned anesthesia approach. Your medical team will ask you about your medical history and allergies (if any), as well as any prior surgery and history of anesthesia-related complications and smoking.
Facelift surgery is a highly individualized procedure. Plastic surgeons assess your cosmetic goals and general health and plan a customized treatment for you. Facelift treatment is best for those without acute or chronic health issues. Smoking is a life-altering threat for the patients undergoing facelift surgery and complete abstinence from nicotine for several weeks before and after surgery is necessary.
The facelift procedure is not suitable for you if you:
are unable to have anesthesia
are unable or unwilling to stop using nicotine
have poor healing or high risk of heavy bleeding
are at a high risk of developing surgical complications
Types of Facelifts
Which Facelift is Right for You?
A facelift is a cosmetic procedure that can help enhance the appearance of the face by reducing signs of aging and rejuvenating the skin. There are several types of facelift procedures, including a traditional facelift, mini facelift, and thread facelift, among others. The right facelift procedure for you will depend on your specific concerns and goals, as well as the condition of your skin and underlying facial structure. A full facelift is typically recommended for individuals with more advanced signs of aging. In contrast, a mini facelift may be a good option for those with milder skin laxity. A thread facelift is a minimally invasive alternative that can help lift sagging skin using temporary sutures. These procedures can offer a range of benefits, including a more youthful appearance, improved skin texture and tone, and enhanced self-confidence. It is essential to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine the best facelift procedure for you and to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of each option.
Full facelift
A full facelift is a surgical operation used to improve the look of the face by tightening and repositioning the skin and underlying tissue. It is usually done to correct moderate to severe sagging of the facial skin. Incisions are sometimes made in the hairline and near the ears during the procedure. It is also referred to as a traditional facelift and is used to combat the signs of aging, like wrinkles, sagging skin, and the loss of facial volume. This type of facelift is mainly used to address sagging in the cheeks and midface area, the lower face, jowls, jawline, and occasionally the neck.
Mini lift
If you're looking to get a facelift with fewer incisions and not as much skin being taken off, then a mini facelift may be the right option for you. It is still a serious cosmetic technique, however, that necessitates either general or local anaesthesia being administered. The doctor will then make small cuts around your ears and hairline, before adjusting and lifting the underlying tissue and removing any extra skin. Once they are done, they will use sutures to close the incisions. Even though it is a mini facelift, it is still an invasive operation and comes with the risks of bleeding, infections and scarring, just like any other surgery.