Facelift

What is a Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?

A rhytidectomy, commonly known as a facelift, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the face by removing excess skin and redefining facial contours. This procedure addresses visible signs of facial aging, reducing deep wrinkles, skin laxity, and restoring a more youthful and rested appearance.

A facelift goes beyond simply "stretching" the skin; it involves repositioning deep tissues, facial muscles, and underlying structures to create natural and lasting results that respect each patient's unique facial anatomy.

Ideal Candidates

• People between 40-70 years with moderate to severe signs of facial aging
• Skin with sufficient elasticity to achieve good results
• Well-defined bone structure
• Realistic expectations about procedure results
• Good general health without medical conditions that compromise healing
• Non-smokers or willing to quit smoking completely
• Commitment to postoperative care and medical follow-up

A facelift doesn't stop the aging process, but it can "turn back the clock" by 7-10 years, providing a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Areas Treated by Facelift

• Sagging cheeks and volume loss in the midface area
• Deep nasolabial folds (lines from nose to mouth)
• Marionette lines (from mouth corners downward)
• Jawline laxity (jowls)
• Excess neck skin (may require additional neck lift)
• Platysmal bands (prominent neck muscles)
• Loss of facial contour definition

Types of Facelift

Mini Facelift (Short Scar Lift)

• Less invasive procedure for early signs of aging
• Smaller incisions, generally limited to temple area
• Shorter recovery time
• Ideal for patients 40-50 years with mild to moderate laxity

Traditional Facelift (SMAS)

• Addresses the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS)
• Repositions both skin and underlying muscle structures
• More durable and natural results
• Incisions extending from temples to behind ears

Deep Plane Facelift

• Advanced technique that repositions tissues at a deeper plane
• Better preserves blood supply and innervation
• More natural results with less skin tension
• Requires greater specialized surgical experience

Endoscopic Facelift

• Uses minimally invasive techniques with endoscopic camera
• Smaller incisions and less visible scars
• Ideal for younger patients with moderate changes
• Faster recovery

Surgical Procedure

1. Anesthesia: Generally general anesthesia or deep sedation with local anesthesia
2. Incisions: Strategically made in scalp, temples, and around ears to minimize visible scars
3. Tissue separation: Careful dissection to access deep facial structures
4. SMAS repositioning: Lifting and fixation of underlying muscle system
5. Skin redraping: Removal of excess skin and natural redraping
6. Layered closure: Meticulous suturing to minimize tension and optimize healing
7. Dressings: Application of compressive dressings and drains if necessary

Procedure duration varies between 3-6 hours, depending on the extent of the lift and if other procedures are combined.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

First 2-3 days

• Rest with head elevated to reduce swelling
• Compressive dressings and possible drains
• Medication to control pain and inflammation
• Cold compress application to reduce edema
• Avoid activities that increase blood pressure

First week

• Drain removal (if placed)
• Begin gentle cleaning of surgical area
• Swelling and bruising at their peak
• Gradual return to light activities
• Avoid direct sun exposure

2-3 weeks

• Non-absorbable suture removal
• Significant decrease in swelling and bruising
• Return to work and social activities (with makeup if needed)
• Begin gentle lymphatic massage if recommended

1-3 months

• Complete resolution of residual swelling
• Return to full exercise and normal activities
• Scars in maturation process
• More evident and natural results

6-12 months

• Final results completely visible
• Scars practically imperceptible
• Complete tissue stabilization
• Natural and rejuvenated appearance established

Combination with Other Procedures

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

• Complements facial rejuvenation by addressing periocular area
• Removes bags and excess skin from upper and lower eyelids
• Creates a more rested and youthful look

Neck Lift

• Specifically treats neck laxity and double chin
• Removes prominent platysmal bands
• Improves cervical contour and jawline

Facial Fat Transfer

• Restores lost volume in cheeks, temples, and other areas
• Uses patient's own fat for natural results
• Improves skin texture and quality

Surface Treatments

• Chemical peel or laser to improve texture and pigmentation
• Microdermabrasion to smooth fine lines
• Radiofrequency treatments for additional firmness

Risks and Considerations

• Hematoma (blood accumulation under skin)
• Seroma (fluid accumulation)
• Infection at surgical site
• Abnormal scarring or keloids
• Facial asymmetry
• Temporary or permanent facial nerve injury
• Hair loss in incision areas
• Skin necrosis (very rare)
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic result
• Need for revision surgery

At Bodies Plastic Surgery, we minimize these risks through meticulous surgical techniques, thorough preoperative evaluation, and specialized postoperative follow-up.

Maintaining Results

• Daily sun protection with high SPF
• Facial care routine with quality products
• Adequate hydration and balanced nutrition
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Maintenance treatments like Botox and fillers
• Regular exercise to maintain muscle tone
• Periodic medical follow-up

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do facelift results last?

Results from a well-executed facelift can last between 7-15 years, depending on factors like skin quality, genetics, lifestyle, and postoperative care. While aging continues, patients maintain a more youthful appearance compared to not having the procedure.

Will there be visible scars?

Incisions are strategically made in naturally hidden areas like the scalp, ear folds, and hairlines. With advanced suturing techniques and appropriate postoperative care, scars become practically imperceptible after 6-12 months.

When can I resume normal activities?

Most patients can resume light work activities in 10-14 days, social activities in 2-3 weeks, and full exercise in 6-8 weeks. Timeline may vary based on procedure extent and individual healing speed.

Is the procedure very painful?

Most patients experience moderate discomfort rather than severe pain. Discomfort peaks in the first 2-3 days and is effectively controlled with prescribed medication. Many patients describe the sensation as "tightness" rather than sharp pain.

Can I combine facelift with other procedures?

Yes, it's common to combine facelift with blepharoplasty, neck lift, facial fat transfer, or surface treatments. This allows for more complete facial rejuvenation and can be more efficient in terms of recovery time.

At Bodies Plastic Surgery, our facial surgery specialists use advanced facelift techniques, combining surgical precision with artistic sensitivity to create natural and harmonious results that respect and enhance each patient's unique beauty.