What is a facelift?

The real question is "Would you benefit from a face lift?" Diagnosis allows the plastic surgeon to provide the correct treatment. A face lift is anything from a skin only tightening to a repositioning the structures of the face. Nonsurgical methods may also provide some of the benefits of a face lift. The plastic surgeon needs knowledge of all of these methods. A typical face lift involves an incision around the ear to gain access to the structures of the face. The extent of the dissection through this incision depends on the patient's problem. Typically the cheek and jowl areas improve with this surgery. The SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system) is a deeper structure which allows tightening without the stigmata of a face lift. One may also have a "liquid face lift" with fillers to replace the lost volume of the face. Finally, some lasers will tighten the skin to give a more youthful appearance. Thus, the selection of type of face lift as well as the surgeon performing it leads to the best result.

What is the basic procedure of Facelift?

An incision in front of the ear to allow access to the face to reposition the structures of the face and then re-drape the skin to yield the desired result.

Are there significant risks associated with facelift surgery?

Risks are part of any surgical procedure. The surgery and the anesthesia are risk factors and that is why it is important to have a board certified plastic surgeon and a certified anesthesia provider as well. The risks of the surgery are numerous but infrequent in skilled hands. The plastic surgeon should provide information about the risks at you consultation or preoperative visit.

What are the objectives of facelift?

The objectives are to improve the problems that bother you the patient. The patient must communicate his/her concerns to the surgeon so that the surgeon addresses them. The right operation with a skilled surgeon lessens the chance of failure. Communication between the patient and the surgeon is of utmost importance.