1. Is a face lift performed under general anesthesia?

I like to perform my face lifts under general anesthesia. I find that it is easier on the patient and easier on me. Still, a number of doctors do face lifts under local anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.


2. How long before I can resume normal activities after my face lift?

I tell my patients that they can resume normal activities as soon as they feel up to it, but nothing strenuous for three weeks following surgery. Bandages usually are removed after a couple of days and the patient may shower and wash their hair immediately after removal of the bandages.


3. How do I find a qualified surgeon in my area?

First, I would recommend finding a doctor certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only board recognized by the American Medical Association for the training and certification of plastic surgeons. The American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery is comprised of otolaryngologists (ENT doctors) who have significant training in cosmetic facial surgery. They would also be good doctors to use. I would recommend getting two or three consultations in order to gain different perspectives. I would ask to see before and after pictures and possibly speak to a previous patient. If you know someone who has had experience with a particular doctor, I would ask them about their experience. I would ask how many face lifts the doctor does each year. Face lifts might be a very small part of his/her practice.


4. Who is a good candidate for face lift surgery?

Face lifts are good for improving sagging skin of the mid and lower face (jowls) and neck areas. When standing in front of a mirror, if you gently pull the skin upwards and back towards the ears, you can get an idea of the type of improvement that might be accomplished.


5. Will face lift surgery eliminate all of my facial wrinkles?

No. Face lifts will not improve wrinkles of the forehead (this requires a brow lift), or around the eyes (this requires additional surgery around the eyes which may be done in conjunction with the face lift). It will also not improve the lines and wrinkles around the mouth. These may be improved with filler materials, laser resurfacing, chemical peels, or dermabrasion. A face lift is designed to tighten skin of the mid and lower face as well as the neck area.


6. Am I too young (or old) for a face lift?

Skin is primarily affected by genetics, smoking, and sun exposure. Older people can have very youthful looking skin while younger patients can have very weathered skin depending on how they care for their skin. Age is not necessarily a limiting factor when it comes to face lifts. There are also various mini-face lifts or less invasive treatments that can be performed on patients who may not yet need a full face lift. Many of these can be performed in an office setting.


7. Will it be obvious that I have had a face lift?

The best face lift is the one where you look better but no one knows you had a face lift. You want people to comment that you look rested as though you just returned from vacation. No one wants a tight, windblown look.