Facelift Surgery  

Facelift surgery, otherwise known as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure which offers the patient an opportunity to 'turn back the clock' by removing some of the more visible signs of the ageing process on the face.

Facelift surgery has a rejuvenating effect on the facial and neck area of the patient, and today facelift surgery is one of the more commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. In 2006, over 66,000 facelift surgery procedures were carried out throughout the United States.

Why Have Facelift Surgery?  

The vast majority of people who choose to undergo facelift surgery do so to reverse the inevitable effects of time on the on the facial region, and in particular the skin. A facelift can refresh the entire facial and neck region of the patient, improving the facial and neck contours, and providing a revitalising effect on the entire region.  

Preparing For The Surgery, And The Procedure:  

Prior to your facelift surgery, your surgeon will want to discuss with you your expectations of the surgery, and at the same time will explain to you the possible results of your procedure. During the initial consultations, your surgeon will likely want to evaluate both the skin and the underlying bone structure of your face. 

As with all cosmetic surgery, your surgeon will discuss with you the risks involved with facelift surgery, and will explain how any potential complications can be addressed.    

Facelift surgery can take several hours, and is usually performed under a local anestetic, although in some instances the surgeon may prefer to use a general anestetic.

The procedure itself is similar for both men and women, with the surgeon making a small incision in the temple area (usually hidden by the hair), extending down in a line in front of the ear, following around the earlobe into the scalp at the back. Occasionally, depending on the nature of the surgery, the surgeon may also choose to make a small incision in the chin.

Once the incisions are completed, the surgeon proceeds to redrape the skin over the face before closing the incisions with a series of stitches. The majority of facelift surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, however if patient has had a general anestetic for the procedure, they may well be required to stay in over night.

Facelift Surgery Recovery Period:

Following your surgery, the surgeon may well choose to losely bandage your head for a day, to minimalise the amount of swelling, although it is normal for this to be removed the day after the surgery. 

The stitches are usually removed around five to ten days after the surgery, after which the only visible scars will be in front of the ears. These are usually disguised by make-up until they fade to a very thin line over time. Patients are often advised to avoid work for a period of ten to fourteen days following the procedure.   

The Risks Of Facelift Surgery:

As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, there are risks involved, and facelift surgery is no different. Complications typically associated with facelift surgery include infections, reactions to the anesthesia, hematoma (temporary bleeding) or a temporary numbness around the face. 

Overall however, facelift surgery is a commonly performed proceedure, and you will be able to reduce the risk of complications by following the advice given to you by your cosmetic surgeon.