Facelift

As we begin to grow older, the signs of aging may begin to become evident in our facial appearance. In order to achieve a more rejuvenated look, patients may consider facelift surgery.

More technically known as a "rhytidectomy," facelift surgery is a delicate process in which the forehead, face, and neck are reshaped to improve imperfections, such as:

• Displaced fat
• Loose, sagging skin
• Deep creases and wrinkles around the mouth, eyes, forehead, and neck
• Loss of muscle tone

By removing excess skin and fat from the face and neck, and then redraping the skin, patients are able to attain a more youthful facial appearance. Although facelift surgery will not change your primary look, it will improve upon it. An excellent option to help turn back the hands of time, facelift surgery can in no way permanently stop the signs of aging, but it can help to delay it.

Should the patient desire an overall refreshed appearance, eyelid surgery ("blepharoplasty") and eyebrow lift surgery ("brow lift surgery") are also commonly combined with facelift surgery, and may be suggested by Dr. Livingston to help you reach your goals.

Procedural Steps:

After being placed under general anesthesia, Dr. Livingston will begin the procedure by creating a series of incisions that may span across the hairline, and around the front and back creases of the ears. Through these incisions, displaced fat can also be removed, and if needed, the fat can be redistributed throughout the face to fill out hollow spots or wrinkles. The underlying tissue of the face and neck will also be repositioned for a firmer look.

When the underlying tissue and muscles have has been repositioned, Dr. Livingston will then remove the excess skin and redrape it upon the new contours of the face. Closing the incisions with sutures, incision lines are inconspicuously hidden within the hair and natural folds of the ears for a new, natural look that will be sure to leave people guessing how old you truly are.

A less invasive treatment, mini-facelift surgery ("mid facelift surgery") may also be available for those patients with minimal wrinkling and sagging. Dr. Livingston will access your appearance and recommend the best option for you.

The Results:

After surgery, a compression bandage will be placed around your face and neck to help minimize the bruising and swelling that will occur post-operatively. A small tube may also be placed under the skin to allow excess fluid and blood to drain from the incision site for a complete recovery.

Swelling and bruising may take several weeks to resolve, and incision lines may take up to six months or more to fade and flatten. Usually, concealer make-up can be applied to hide the incisions after one week. Most patients can return to normal activity and work within 2-3 weeks.

With results long-lasting, facelift and mid-facelift surgery will provide patients with a younger looking appearance, and rested look.