Facelift Procedure for a youthful appearance

The facelift procedure has been around for decades to help men and women gain a more youthful appearance. Also know as rhyitdectomy, this surgical procedure general involves removing excess facial skin, sometimes tightening of the underlying tissues and then redraping the skin. The facelift involves working on the skin of a patient's face and neck.

As we age, there is natural sagging of the skin, decreased skin elasticity, and wrinkles. Some people become dissatisfied with how they look because they feel young on the inside, and would like their outer appearance to reflect that. Many of these people will decide that a facelift is the right solution.

What can I Expect With a Facelift?

The facelift is a common medical procedure requiring anesthesia. Expect that your surgery will last about four hours, but of course, this varies from person to person. The recovery time after surgery is about three weeks, and during this time, it is important to follow your surgeon's postoperative instructions. The major risk of facelift is an infection so keeping your incisions clean is vitally important to prevent scarring.

The facelift is an invasive procedure so there may be some mild scarring. Generally, the facelift incision will follow the contour of your ear, and then extend around the earlobe and back into your hairline. Many patients with shorter hair choose to grow their hair longer before the procedure in order to help hide the scars. Your doctor will be very careful to make the incisions in areas that are most easily concealed by your hair or even with makeup.

After you have healed from your facelift procedure, you will see smoother, more pleasing contours to your face and neck. Many patients describe their skin as feeling refreshed and more pleasing.

How do I choose a Surgeon?

Choosing your surgeon is the most important step in your facelift process. Here are a few tips to help you find a surgeon who will meet your needs:

• Ask family, friends and colleagues if they have any plastic surgeon recommendations. If you know someone who has had a plastic surgery procedure and they are happy with the results, get the name of their physician and book a consultation appointment.


• Book consultation appointments with two to three surgeons so that you can get individual opinions and it will give you an opportunity to see if a good doctor-patient relationship can develop.


• Speak frankly and honestly throughout your consultation. Outline your wants and expectations so that the physician can determine whether they will be able to meet your needs. Using a mirror, describe in detail your issues with your appearance. If there is something bothering you, it is important to describe it and to spell out exactly what you want changed.


• Make sure the procedure is outlined in detail so that you can ensure you are comfortable with what will be done during surgery. Talk about recovery time. Find out how much it will cost. It is important that you fully understand the emotional, physical and financial implications of a facelift.