What is a facelift?

As the face ages tissue elasticity decreases, fibrous attachments stretch, and fat distribution changes. These things result in the changes that result in the shape of an older face such as the waddle and jowls. A facelift is a surgical procedure that reverses many of the changes of the aging face. Tissue elasticity cannot be restored by any procedure, but fat distribution and stretched attachments can be repaired. By making a series of incisions tight in the creases around the ear and another small incision under the chin, I can access the deep tissues. I sculpt the fat and reposition the deeper tissues into a more youthful position. Finally I remove redundant skin from the cheeks and neck using the incision around the ear. The procedure should not be thought of as a stretch, it is a repositioning and reshaping of the face. The tissues are not stretched into a new shape but rather released and reattached for a natural and youthful shape. Skin quality is not addressed by a facelift. Depending on the person, skin quality may be as much as or even more of a problem. Skin quality is addressed with a resurfacing procedure. Wrinkles, age spots, pre cancerous lesions, and other age related changes are dramatically improved with laser resurfacing.

Are there significant risks associated with facelift surgery?

Life is a constant balance between risk and benefit. Absolutely everything we do has risk, even sitting in our living room chair. A facelift procedure has risks associated with it. The vast majority of complications that can occur during a facelift are treatable and only result in a delay in the healing process. There are, however, permanent risks as well. These are very unlikely, but just like traveling in a car carries real and significant risks, so does having a facelift. It is your responsibility as an individual to decide if the benefits you are likely to receive from having the surgery justify the small, but real risk of surgery.

What are the benefits of a facelift procedure?

A facelift has the obvious benefit of reducing the signs of aging. Some of the not so obvious benefits include increased self esteem, improved competitiveness in the workplace, and an improved social life. Looking your best gives people the impression that you are a capable person ready to be productive and enjoy what life has to offer.