Everything You Should Know About Getting a Facelift

Facelifts are a fairly common procedure meant to combat physical signs of aging. This procedure is typically performed on older individuals who have experienced some form of skin laxity. Though this procedure is commonplace, many people may not be aware of what this procedure entails and if they are eligible to get it. 

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure meant to enhance the appearance of the skin and reduce the appearance of age-related wrinkles. Many older individuals seek out a facelift to reduce the sagging skin on their faces and return a more youthful appearance to their skin. There are many different types of facelifts based on a person’s area of concern. The main types of facelifts are:

• The full facelift

  This is the best way to fix large amounts of skin laxity all over the face. It allows for fat redistribution and removes any excess skin from the face. The scars from this surgery are typically well-hidden in the hairline and around the ears. 

• The mini lift

  This is an area-specific lift. It doesn’t cover the entire face and instead focuses on one outlined problem area. This is best for younger patients who are just beginning to show signs of aging as it’s more discreet and less invasive. 

• The neck-only lift

  This lift is only for the neck. During this procedure, the skin under the chin is opened and allowed to redrape. Fat is then removed and the opening is stitched up. Incisions are typically placed behind the ear or under the chin. The length of the incision will depend on the amount of skin laxity that the neck has. 

What Happens During a Facelift?

A facelift is a pretty standard plastic surgery procedure that remains decently minimally invasive. Before going in for the procedure, your surgeon should give you a list of things to avoid and a guide on how you are to come in on surgery day. Once your surgery day arrives, you will be taken into the room and will undergo the following:

• Anesthesia

  The patient will be given a choice of anesthesia and sedation. A doctor may make suggestions on what will work best for the patient. 

• The surgical procedure

  After the patient is sedated and unable to feel pain, an incision is made on the side of the face. Internal facial tissue is then recontoured in a more visually appealing way. 

• Closing of the incisions

  Once the contour looks the way that the patient and surgeon would like, the incisions on the side of the face are closed and the patient is bandaged and taken out of the operating room to recover. 

After your procedure, you will appear to be much more youthful. Make sure to follow any post-surgical instructions given to you by your surgeon. The results of your facelift are expected to last around 10 years depending on your lifestyle. 

Who Is An Ideal Candidate For a Facelift? 

An ideal facelift candidate is someone who is healthy, both in their physical health and in terms of their outlook on plastic surgery treatments. They should have clear and realistic expectations from the surgical procedure. Ideal candidates may also have a version of skin laxity that needs to be attended to. 

If you are wondering if a facelift or a neck lift is right for you, it is best to consult your physician or licensed plastic surgeon. They will be able to give you case-specific information to help you better make an informed decision on your health.