A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is designed to correct sagging skin and prominent skin folds, particularly around the chin, on the jaw line and on the neck. This procedure involves the tightening of facial and neck skin and muscles and the removal of excess skin, resulting in a more youthful appearance. A facelift can be performed any time after signs of aging appear .
Before surgery
Prior to surgery, a medical history of the patient is taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. The physician and patient discuss together how the face should look and what results can realistically be expected. The goal of the surgery is to produce a pleasing natural appearance. Photographs are taken before and after surgery in order to determine the amount of improvement. The type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, and possible risks and complications are also discussed by the physician and patient.
The procedure
The surgery can be performed in a physician's office, an outpatient surgical facility or a hospital, depending upon the physician's and patient's preference. It can be done under general anesthesia with the patient asleep or local anesthesia in which the area is numbed and the patient remains awake. Premedication is usually administered to relax the patient.
In the basic procedure, incisions are made inside the hairline at the temple, running in front of the ear then around the earlobe and behind the ear, ending in the hair of the scalp. Loose skin, connective tissue, and sagging muscles are tightened, and tiny sutures are used to close the incisions.
Following surgery
After surgery, loose bandages which are applied to the area are removed within a few days. Pain connected with the surgery is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication. The surgeon determines when sutures are removed. Scars from the incisions fade significantly with time and are, for the most part, inconspicuous because they are made within natural creases. Swelling and discoloration disappear in a week or two. A tightness or numbness of the treated area may be present for awhile. For several weeks after surgery, patients are advised to avoid the sun as much as possible and to wear sunscreen when going outside. Healing is gradual and final results may not be apparent for several weeks. In most cases, a single procedure achieves the desired results. |
