What is a facelift?

A facelift is a surgical operation to remove excess skin from the face, mainly to improve the appearance of the jowls, cheeks and neck.

What are the objectives of facelift?

The objectives are a rejuvenated, more youthful appearance of the skin and face of the patient.

What is the basic procedure of Facelift?

The basic procedure is a surgical incision that runs from the temple down the front of the ear, wraps around behind the ear and goes up into the hair-line behind the ear.

Can I expect permanent results from a facelift?

I don't believe anything is permanent. We have no way of stopping the overall aging process, so, therefore, we cannot expect that to happen with a facelift, either. But, it is, potentially, the longest-lasting procedure for facial rejuvenation in the right candidate.

Are there significant risks associated with facelift surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with this procedure--bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, injury to underlying nerves, etc. In the right person and with the right expertise, all of these risks are minimized significantly.

What are the benefits of a facelift procedure?

A facelift is the gold-standard by which all other procedures are compared to for longevity, effectiveness and results. There are few non-surgical procedures that can achieve the results of a facelift, when done for the right reasons on the right person.

Is there a common technique for facelift procedures?

The most common technique is the one involving the incision in front and behind the ear, but there are many other variations, based on the individual patient needs and the surgeon's expertise.

Is a facelift performed under general anesthesia?

In most cases, the surgery is performed under a general anesthetic. There are some that do it under a twilight-type anesthetic, that, in the right hands, and with the right personnel, can also be quite safe, without sacrificing any of the results.

How long before I can resume normal activities after my facelift?

The usual time is 2-3 weeks.

How do I find a qualified surgeon in my area?

There are only 2 societies that list their Board-Certified physicians, for whom I would trust to do a safe, effective, and reproducible facelift: American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Facial Plastic Surgeons. The Facial Plastic Surgeon Society is usually made up of Board Certified Otolaryngologists that have done additional training in facial cosmetics. Both of these societies have stringent criteria and requirements for their members. I would not trust anyone else with such a major surgical procedure.