Overview

Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, addresses visible signs of aging on the face and neck caused by gravity, sun exposure, and daily stresses. It involves removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles, and redraping the skin to create a more youthful appearance. Suitable candidates typically have excess and sagging skin and are between forty and sixty, though older individuals can also benefit.

Description

Facelift surgery generally takes between two and four hours, potentially longer if combined with other procedures. It is performed on an outpatient basis using a combination of local anesthesia, mild sedative, and/or mild intravenous anesthesia. Incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring, typically starting at the temples, extending around the ear, and ending at the lower scalp. Small incisions under the chin may be used if the neck requires additional work.

Consultation

During the initial consultation, Dr. Chaudhari will evaluate your facial skin, underlying bone structure, and discuss your goals using computer imaging. Health conditions like uncontrolled high blood pressure or blood clotting issues will be considered. You'll need to provide your medical history, list any medications, and disclose nicotine or tobacco use. Different anesthesia options will be discussed to tailor the procedure to your needs.

Procedure

The steps for facelift surgery are as follows:
  • Anesthesia: A combination of local anesthesia, mild sedative, and/or mild intravenous anesthesia is administered.
  • Incision: Incisions are made around the hairline, ears, and possibly under the chin.
  • Skin Separation: The skin is lifted outward and separated from the underlying fat and muscle.
  • Fat Removal and Muscle Tightening: Fat is trimmed or suctioned, and the muscle and connective tissue are tightened or repositioned. Skin Redraping: The skin is pulled back, lifted, and excess skin is trimmed.
  • Closure: The incisions are closed with stitches, and metal clips may be used on the scalp.

After Surgery

  • Pain Management: Pain medication is prescribed to manage discomfort.
  • Post-Procedure Care: Numbness and swelling are expected, with a dressing applied to protect incision areas. A small tube may be placed to drain blood.
  • Swelling and Bruising: Swelling peaks within 36-48 hours and subsides over 10-14 days. Minor swelling may persist for months.
  • Activity Restrictions: Avoid vigorous exercise for at least three weeks. Most patients can resume regular activities and return to work within one to two weeks.

Results

    Facelift results are immediate, though initial swelling may make the skin appear tight. Most patients are satisfied with the outcome, achieving a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing facial profile.

Complications

  • Hematoma: Blood clots may form under the skin.
  • Numbness: Possible nerve damage causing numbness.
  • Hyperpigmentation: Bruising may cause skin discoloration.
  • Asymmetry: Healing tissues may lead to asymmetry.
  • Infection: Risk of infection at incision sites.
  • Scarring: Potential for visible scarring, though incisions are placed to minimize this.

Additional Information

  • S-Lift: Targets the lower third of the face, including the jawline and neck.
  • SMAS Lift: Lifts the Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System, often combined with the platysma lift.
  • Platysma Lift: Focuses on tightening the platysma muscles in the neck.
  • Mini-Lift: A less invasive option for treating nasolabial folds.
  • SOOF Lift: Lifts mid-facial tissues to smooth nasolabial folds and enhance upper cheek volume.
  • Temporal Lift: Targets the upper third of the face, raising the brow and correcting forehead lines.
  • Subperiosteal Facelift: Lifts the sub-orbital and midface areas.
  • Deep Plane Lift: A deeper procedure focusing on the nasolabial area, benefiting the neck and jaw.
  • Feather Lift with APTOS Threads: A less invasive procedure using cogged threads to lift drooping tissues on the face and neck. This provides a rejuvenated look with a quick recovery time.
  • Disclaimer: Results may vary from person to person.

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