facelift

Nothing can stop the aging process, but for millions, a facelift has helped set back the clock by tightening underlying facial muscles, removing excess fat, and redraping the skin on the face and neck. The results of a facelift are often very impressive, leaving you looking and feeling better than you have in years. The effects of sun, stress and time on your face can be dramatically transformed through a facelift procedure. The surgery can be performed alone or with other procedures, such as a forehead lift, eyelid surgery, or nose reshaping.

Both women and men undergo facelifts, most often between 40 and 60; however many procedures are performed on people in their 70s and 80s.

What to Expect
While the underlying efforts and goals of the facelift are the same, your facial structure and personal preferences will determine the approach to the surgery. Incisions are usually made above the hairline, in front of the ear, and behind the earlobe to the lower scalp. The skin may be separated from the fat and muscle allowing fat to be trimmed away. The skin and muscle is then stretched and stitched to create a new look. Following surgery, a small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any blood that might collect there. Your head will be wrapped loosely in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling.

Recovery will take several days. The drainage tube will be removed after a day or two, bandages removed after several days, and stitches within a week or so. The swelling and discoloration from bruising will gradually fade each day. You will be given specific guidelines for care and activities after surgery. Most people return to work within 10 days.

Most people are delighted with the results of their facelift. Many are so thrilled with their results, they share their stories with others, often without being asked. Complications from facelifts can include hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin that must be removed by the surgeon), nerve injury to the nerves that control facial muscles (usually temporary), and infection. Poor healing of the skin is most likely to affect smokers. You can reduce your risks by closely following Dr. Ratliff's advice both before and after surgery.

Learn more about Facelifts from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.