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Frequent Questions About Facelift (Rhytidectomy) · How is this procedure performed? · How do I prepare for my Face Lift? · How long does the procedure take? · What form of anesthesia is used? · Can I return home the same day? · How long before I can return to normal activity? · What is the age limit for a Face Lift? · How long will a Face Lift last?
How is this procedure performed? There are different techniques and approaches to a Face Lift. The exact placement of the incisions and the sequence of events depend on your facial structure and your surgeon's preference. Generally, incisions begin at the temples above the hairline, flow along the natural line inside of the ear, curve around the earlobe into the crease behind the ear, then into or along the lower scalp. If your neck needs attention, a small incision may also be made under the chin. The facial skin is lifted, the fat is trimmed or suctioned and underlying muscle may be tightened. After deep tissues are tightened, the excess skin is pulled up and back, trimmed and stitched (sutured) into place. Stitches secure the layers of tissue and close the incision; metal clips may be used on the scalp. Some surgeons use a tiny thin tube placed temporarily under the skin behind your ear to drain any fluid that could collect there. Your surgeon may also wrap your head loosely in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling.
How do I prepare for my Face Lift? Patients must give a full medical history during the initial preoperative visit. Be prepared to provide a complete list of all your medications, allergies and previous surgeries. You will undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests. If you are at or over age 40, an electrocardiogram will be required. Photographs are important aids in planning and performing your Face Lift. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and several months after your procedure. During your consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include cautions about taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, and instructions on hair coloring and use of antibacterial soap. It is very important to note that smoking reduces the blood supply to the face and may increase scarring and compromise the good results of a Face Lift. Therefore, you must stop smoking completely for three weeks before and two weeks after your procedure. "Cutting down" will not help. Complete elimination of smoking is necessary to improve facial blood supply. You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure. If you take daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. You must also stop taking aspirin or taking diet pills at least two weeks prior to the procedure. If you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined again prior to your procedure.
How long does the procedure take? Operating time varies depending on the extent of your procedure's. Most of our Face Lift patients are finished with their procedure in about two to three hours.
What form of anesthesia is used? General anesthesia is used for all surgical procedures and is performed by a Professional M.D. Anesthesiologist.
Can I return home the same day?
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis so you may return
home the same day. However, it is necessary that you have someone to
pick you up after the procedure, take you home, and stay with you for at
least 24 hours. 3rd day · 1 week · 1 month · 3 months · 6 months · 1 year
How long before I can return to normal activity? Most people return to work and their usual activity within ten days. Jogging, aerobics, bicycling and other non-contact sports are permitted three weeks after the procedure.
What is the age limit for a Face Lift? Health, not age, determines how long you can wait to have a Face Lift. A healthy individual can have a Face Lift well into their eighties.
How long does a Face Lift last? Actually, it depends upon the individual; each person is sagging and aging at a different rate. A Face Lift result generally rolls back the clock five to 10 years.
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