A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck.
If You're Considering a Facelift...
As people age, the effects of gravity, exposure to the sun, and the stresses of daily life can begin to show in their faces. Deep creases form between the nose and mouth, the jaw line grows slack and jowly, and folds along with fat deposits appear around the neck.
A facelift, technically known as rhytidectomy, cannot stop this aging process but it can help set back the clock. A facelift will improve the most visible signs of aging by removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles, and re-draping the skin of your face and neck. A facelift can be done alone or in conjunction with other procedures such as a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or fat injection to restore volume.
The best candidate for a facelift is a man or woman whose face and neck have begun to sag, but whose skin still has some elasticity and well-defined bone structure. A facelift can make you look younger and enhance your self- confidence.
Before you decide to have surgery, however, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Anigian. When a facelift is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Still, individuals vary greatly in their anatomy, their physical reactions, and healing abilities. You can reduce your risks by closely following Dr. Anigian’s advice both before and after surgery.
Planning Your Surgery
Facelifts are very individualized procedures, as no two faces are the same. In your initial consultation Dr. Anigian will evaluate your face, including the skin and underlying bone, and discuss your goals for the surgery.
It is very important you disclose any medical conditions that could cause problems during or after surgery, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, blood clotting problems, or the tendency to form excessive scars.
Dr. Anigian will explain the techniques in detail and work with you to develop a personalized surgical plan to meet your needs. Don't hesitate to ask questions, especially those regarding your expectations, concerns about the results and potential risks.
Once your surgery is scheduled you will be required to come in for a pre-operative appointment. You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. If you smoke, it's especially important to stop at least two weeks before and four weeks after surgery; smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin, and can interfere with the healing of your incision areas.
The Surgery
A facelift usually takes six to seven hours or longer if you're having more than one procedure done. For extensive procedures, it may be appropriate to schedule two separate sessions.
Every surgeon approaches the procedure in his or her own way. The exact placement of incisions and the sequence of events is dependent on your facial structure and the surgical plan Dr. Anigian has created for you. This will be discussed prior to surgery.
Following surgery, a small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin behind your ear to drain any blood that might collect there. The drain is usually removed the following day. You will have a loose wrap around your head to minimize bruising and swelling. Typically there is no significant discomfort after surgery. Some numbness of the skin is quite normal and will disappear in a few weeks or months.
The Surgery
A facelift typically takes six to seven hours if you're having more than one procedure done. For extensive procedures, it may be appropriate to schedule two separate sessions.
Every surgeon approaches the procedure in his or her own way. The exact placement of incisions and the sequence of events are dependent on your facial structure and the surgical plan that Dr. Anigian has created for you. This will be discussed prior to surgery.
Following surgery, a small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin behind your ear to drain any blood that might collect there. The drain is usually removed the following day. You will have a loose wrap around your head to minimize bruising and swelling. Typically there is no significant discomfort after surgery. Some numbness of the skin is quite normal and will disappear in a few weeks or months.
Getting Back to Normal
You should be up and about in a day or two, but plan on taking it easy for the first week to two weeks post surgery. Be especially gentle with your face and hair, since your skin will be both tender and numb, and may not respond normally at first.
In the first week your face may look and feel rather strange. Your features may be distorted from the swelling and facial movements may be slightly stiff. By the third week, you will look and feel much better. Most patients are back at work about ten days to two weeks after surgery. If you need it, special camouflage makeup can mask most bruising that remains.
It’s important to remember your face will continue to age with time. Routine skincare and/or injections can help further the outcome of a facelift.