Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

A facelift is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures available, designed to treat wrinkles, sagging and skin laxity within the face for a younger, more refreshed appearance. As we age, the effects of time, gravity, sun exposure and stress inevitably take their toll on our faces, producing wrinkles, folds, fat deposits and loose skin.

Patients unhappy with the changing appearance of their face may seek relief through a facelift. This time-tested procedure targets the mid- to lower face, including the cheeks, mouth, chin and neck. Ideal candidates are usually those in their 40s, 50s or 60s looking to reverse the early signs of aging in the face, are generally healthy and have realistic expectations for surgery.

Facelift Procedure

During the facelift procedure, an incision is made around the ear, sometimes extending into the scalp. There are several different techniques that may be used depending on each patient’s facial structure and desired goals, but most include sculpting, lifting and repositioning the underlying fat, muscle and deep tissues, while also trimming and redraping the skin for dramatic yet natural-looking results.

In most cases, a facelift is performed under general anesthesia. The entire procedure usually takes two to four hours to perform on an outpatient basis.

Recovery from a Facelift

After a facelift, patients may experience mild discomfort, bruising, swelling and drainage for a few days. You can wash your hair after two days and can likely return to work within a week. It is recommended that patients avoid strenuous activity for four to six weeks after surgery until swelling has completely subsided.

The results of the facelift will be immediately noticeable and will continue to improve for up to three months, as swelling and other side effects begin to fade. While results are not permanent and do not make patients immune to the effects of aging, you will continue to look younger than if you had never undergone any treatment.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FACELIFT

What problems can a facelift correct?

A facelift can reduce signs of aging (wrinkles, lines, sagging skin, drooping brow) by removing excess fat, tightening the underlying muscles, and redraping the skin around the neck and face.

Can facelifts be combined with other procedures?

Facelifts can be done alone or in conjunction with a forehead lift, eyelid surgery, or nose reshaping.

I would like to improve the look of my neck, not my face. Do I need a facelift?

If your problem areas are limited to the neck, you may elect to undergo a more conservative procedure called a "necklift."

I've heard that the best candidates for facelifts are in their 40s and 50s. Are older patients eligible?

Most facelift patients are in their 40s-60s, but facelifts can be done successfully on people in their 70s or 80s as well.

Are there any special concerns for men?

Men may have to shave behind the neck and ears where areas of beard-growing skin have been repositioned.

When can I go back to work?

Most patients return to work about ten days to two weeks after surgery.

Will my scars be visible?

Scars are usually hidden by the hair or the natural creases of your face and ears. In addition, they will fade as time passes and should be scarcely visible.

How long do the effects of a facelift last?

Results of a facelift do not last forever. You may want to have another procedure in five or ten years. But in another sense, the effects are permanent; years later, your face will continue to look better than if you had never had a facelift.


Those interested in Facelift should find a plastic surgeon they can trust. From the initial consultation through post-surgical recovery, Dr. Lalla emphasizes an honest doctor-patient relationship that allows his patients to remain well informed of their surgical options.

Click here for before and after pictures for Face Lifts Click here for procedure animations

To learn more about the benefits of a Facelift and schedule a consultation please contact us today : (609)584-8898