Facelift
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Facelift – A Comprehensive Overview
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery meant to lift and tighten facial tissues. During a facelift, surgeons remove sagging facial skin for the purpose of reshaping and rejuvenating the lower face and neck. The procedure addresses signs of aging, restoring definition and tone while smoothing away wrinkles and folds.
Am I a Good Candidate?
A person who plans for a rhytidectomy procedure must quit smoking completely, since it interferes with the healing process. Ideal facelift patients are in good overall health, and people who have serious medical issues like diabetes and high blood pressure should not consider facelift procedures.
Candidates must have realistic expectations when it comes to the results of the facelift procedure. A facelift is appropriate for patients with moderate to severe facial wrinkles. Patients with sagging or loose facial skin are also excellent candidates. The best candidates are those who follow skincare regimens for lasting results.
Your Facelift Consultation
Patients begin with a surgical consultation to discuss desires/goals and to answer questions about the procedure. During this process, the surgeon will perform an examination and discuss medical history. This includes any allergies, any medications currently being taken, any preexisting conditions, and any past procedures.
Patients may be interested in combining their facelift with another facial-rejuvenation procedure like a browlift or eyelift. Such combination surgeries can be discussed with your surgeon during consultation. We may recommend combination options depending on the goals of the patient.
The surgeon will walk the patient through the details of the facelift procedure, including aftercare steps. Questions are encouraged. Potential fees and cost estimates will also be discussed, as well as patient financing options.
In order to prepare for the procedure, the use of blood thinners and aspirin should be discontinued a week prior to the surgery. This helps to avoid complications.
The Facelift Procedure
Facelift surgery is performed using conscious sedation, which means the patient is breathing on their own during the surgery. The surgery typically takes more than four hours. If the treatment plan involves a combination of cosmetic procedures, the duration of the surgery will increase.
Once the patient is sedated, incisions are made and the skin and underlying tissue is redistributed and tightened across the face in order to give the face a more youthful appearance. Additional incisions can be made under the chin as needed. Incisions are closed using sutures and are usually well hidden along the hairline and behind the ears. Scarring will gradually fade over time.
The Recovery and Healing Process
The facelift procedure does not require a hospitalization; patients are normally sent home after the surgery to rest and heal. Patients will experience temporary bruising and swelling in the facial area. These can be reduced by using bandages on the area and by keeping one’s head elevated. Patients must avoid contact or putting pressure on the face during the recovery period.
Generally speaking, patients recover in a two-to-three-week period and should avoid strenuous activities for four weeks. Stitches are normally removed after five to ten days during a follow-up appointment.
Patients may be prescribed medication to relieve any discomfort due to tenderness. A healthy lifestyle and a good skincare regimen (Obagi or Epionce lines, for example) will ensure that the results of the procedure last as long as possible.
How Much Does a Facelift Cost?
The cost of facelift depends on factors such as total time needed to perform the surgery, facelift techniques, anesthesia fees, and more. Combination facial cosmetic procedures will impact the overall price of the surgery.
Get Started Today
At Idaho Eyelid & Facial Plastic Surgery, our skilled medical professionals regularly perform facelift procedures for patients in the Treasure Valley and beyond. Schedule your consultation by contacting our office.
Featured Testimonial
“In November 2019, I had a neck/face lift surgery at Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery. My experience was fantastic. Two points I would like to make. First, the teamwork between Dr. Boerner and Heather Anderson, his surgical assistant, was very complimentary. They worked well together and Heather was always available to answer my questions and concerns. Secondly, Dr. Boerner does amazing work and was very thoughtful and meticulous in his execution. Most importantly, my surgical result is very natural… that was my priority. Also, Heather took great care in making sure the healing process was as easy as it could be, through recommending arnica and other products to reduce bruising. Highly recommend this office, and happy to make referrals through town!”
