Facelift & Neck Lift

What is it?

Facelift, or rhytidectomy is designed to improve the facial contours of the face to reverse the sagging in the neck, cheek, prominent, jowls, and cheek hollowing. Additionally, thick bands of skin can form in the neck as we age, and this addresses those in one operation. The surgery is planned so the incisions are hidden along the hairline and behind the ear. Chemical peels or laser resurfacing procedures may be recommended in addition to facelift to address very fine wrinkles.

How does it work?

A facelift is the most effective way to manage sagging of the mid, lower face, and neck. It is performed through hidden incisions around the ear and along the hairline as well as an incision just under the chin. There are many types of facelifts. During surgery we pull the deep tissue of the cheek and neck back to their natural positions to recreate the natural, youthful contours of the face and neck. These are tacked in position with sutures. Excess skin is trimmed and the incisions are closed without any tension. Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s individual needs.

Recovery:

1-2 weeks. After the first week, you may gradually increase activity back to normal. Skin concealers can be placed over the incisions as they heal if there is redness.

What to expect after surgery?

Following surgery, expect some swelling and bruising of the face and neck. This will start to improve after the first 3 days. A dressing will be around the face to help provide sufficient support and pressure to allow for healing. You may have some drains in place to keep blood and fluid from building up under the skin. The majority of swelling of the outside of the nose improves 1 month after surgery but will continue to resolve over the course of a year after surgery. As the incisions heal they may be somewhat pink, and fade to normal color over the course of several months. Numbness along the cheeks and ear should also slowly improve over the course of 6 months to 1 year.