When it comes to face lifts, options abound. There are mini face lifts, one-hour facelifts, nonsurgical facelifts … even face lifts in a bottle. How do you know which face lift is right for you?
If you want dramatic results that last a decade or more, a traditional facelift may be the best choice.
What, exactly, is a face lift?
This cosmetic surgery addresses the excess skin caused by weight fluctuations, collagen loss and other factors. Not all factors are genetic — smoking and sun exposure can also speed the aging process, making you look older than you really are.
A traditional face lift, also called a rhytidectomy, reduces signs of aging in the face and neck. It can treat sagging jowls, smooth facial wrinkles, and remove excess fatty deposits under the chin and around the neck.
While there are many excellent nonsurgical options such as fillers or Botox®, remember: only a facelift can remove the excess skin around the face and neck.
Am I a good face lift candidate?
The ideal face lift candidate is a nonsmoker, 40 years or older, who is in relatively good health. Many people meet these requirements but avoid cosmetic surgery because they fear high costs or unnatural looking results.
If you fit this category, schedule a consultation at UMass Memorial. There, you can speak with an experienced cosmetic surgeon in the comforting atmosphere of a leading teaching hospital. You will discover that, while all surgeries carry risks, a face lift performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in a hospital setting is a safe procedure that has natural looking results. You may also learn about special financing plans that can make cosmetic surgery more affordable.
What should I expect during face lift surgery?
During your face lift, a cosmetic surgeon will make incisions around the hairline and in front of the ear. In most cases, he or she will then tighten the muscles under the face before elevating and removing excess skin. Depending on your needs, the cosmetic surgeon may also make a small incision below the chin to enhance the neckline. He or she will then stitch the incisions closed.
The entire face lift usually takes three to three and a half hours, and is done under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Initial recovery takes two to three weeks, after which you can resume normal activities. You might experience mild bruising and swelling during the first few days. If you stay healthy and treat your skin right, however, the results could last 10 to 20 years.
Still interested in face lift alternatives? Keep an eye open for future articles from UMass Memorial on similar cosmetic procedures such as mini lifts.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call 508-334-5990.