Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered who was looking back at you? A little worn, some saggy jaw lines, and wrinkly skin? It may be time for a facelift. This plastic surgery procedure is a cosmetic intervention to stretch the skin across the face for a more youthful appearance.
Also known as a rhytidectomy, your chosen cosmetic surgeon will help you decide where to nip, what to tuck, and how to maintain a younger face when you meet the world.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift involves cutting excess skin away and drawing the skin more tightly across the existing face structure. The surgery may also include the neck and throat skin, producing a more toned appearance.
Aging is something that targets everyone, but with a quality facelift, you can regain some youth and look younger for longer.
Before getting a facelift, you will consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Joel Aronowitz, and decide on the most pleasing way to proceed. Many options are available, such as only doing your eyes, tightening the lips, or doing a mini facelift for a gentle improvement.
What Happens During a Facelift?
During a facelift, the surgeon will make minor cuts along the hairline, usually beginning from the temples and around the ear before reaching the back of your scalp. The cut may be under the chin for neck areas, letting the surgeon tighten the skin and remove any excess folds.
In cases where your bone structure has compressed, the surgeon may add fat from other parts of your body, giving you more youthful curves and defining your chin. Liposuction can help remove excess fat from the face and throat.
What to Prepare for After Surgery
Following plastic surgery on the face and neck, you can prepare for swelling, bruising, and some discomfort. Careful aftercare is vital to help the healing process be as comfortable and swift as possible. This recovery period is crucial to the success of the process. Strenuous activities like aerobics are not advised, as the skin may stretch and tear, and your face may lose its carefully constructed features.
A Recipe for Success
It’s vital that you meet the criteria for a facelift. Your surgeon may not recommend surgery if your skin lacks the elasticity to meet a full recovery, and if your facial structure has been compromised, it may also not be advised.
The ideal age group is 40-60-year-old patients who wish to repair minor signs of aging or address scarring on their faces.
Risks
Discuss the risks with your qualified cosmetic surgeon. A caring surgeon, like Joel Aronowitz, will explain risks like:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Complications
- Hair loss
- Necrosis
With the correct preparation and realistic expectations, you can rest assured that your plastic surgery adventure into getting a rhytidectomy will be successful and aesthetically pleasing.
