A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy may not stop the aging process, but it can effectively make patients appear years younger. Face lifts improve the most visible signs of aging by removing excess fat and tightening underlying muscles. A facelift can be done alone, or in conjunction with other procedures such as a forehead lift, eyelid surgery, liposuction or rhinoplasty.
A traditional facelift requires the separating of the skin from the facial muscles in order to tighten and reposition the skin of the face, and often the neck as well. The procedure typically begins with the plastic surgeon creating an incision in the temple area, just above and in front of the ear. For men, usually the incision is aligned to accommodate the natural beard lines. The surgeon then continues the cut around the ear lobe, circling the ear before returning to the point of origin in the scalp. With the skin raised outward, the surgeon repositions and tightens the underlying muscle and connective tissue. In addition, some fat may be taken out as well as excess skin. In all cases, the incision is placed where it will fall in a natural crease of the skin so the cut will be covered. After trimming the excess skin, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures.
If you are thinking about getting a facelift, it is important that you get a qualified plastic surgeon to perform the. However, since people vary greatly in their anatomy, their physical reactions, and their healing abilities the outcome is never completely predictable.
Some of the complications that can happen with a facelift include hematoma, which is a collection of blood under the skin that must be removed by the surgeon, temporary damage to the nerves that control facial muscles, infection, and reactions to the anesthesia. In addition weak healing of the skin is most likely to affect smokers. Patients can reduce their risks by closely following their surgeon’s orders before and after the procedure.
Facelifts provide dramatic and long lasting results that cannot be matched by creams and less invasive procedures. Done correctly with competent doctors the effects of a facelift can be seen and felt for years to come.