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Candidates: Usually
men and women over 40, although some patients in their thirties may benefit from
this procedure.
Objective: To improve the deep fold from the nose to the corner mouth, the
jowls, jaw line and cheekbones. It can also help the loose skin, and "turkey
gobbler" aspect of the neck by removing excess fat, tightening muscles, redraping
skin. It can be done in conjunction with the forehead lift and blepharoplasty to
correct the eyebrows and eyelids.
Incisions and technique: There are different variations of facelift procedure.
The incision is usually placed in front and behind the ear, and is hidden in the
natural folds. From the back of the ear the incision goes into the scalp and is
hidden by the hair. The ear lobe has to be free and natural, avoiding a stretched
appearance. Sometimes a small incision underneath the chin can be used to help with
the tightening of the neck muscles. If necessary the deeper tissues of the face
and neck may also need to be repositioned. The skin is pulled up and back and the
excess is removed. The aspect should look normal and not stretched. The fixing of
the neck might involve liposuction or liposculpture to improve contour. One of the
most important aspects of the facelift is the reposition of the lost volume. This
can be achieved either by folding and suturing the deeper structures or by injection
of fat, which is aspirated from another area.
Length: Two to four hours. Anesthesia: Local with sedation, or general.
In/Outpatient: Usually outpatient. Some patients may require a 24 hour stay.
emporary bruising, swelling, numbness and tenderness of skin; tight feeling, dry
skin.
Risks: Complications from facelifts are not frequent. Hematoma (the accumulation
of blood under the skin), infection, bleeding and reactions to anesthesia. Some
incisions can be visible due to individual variations in healing and might have
to be revised. Temporary injury to the nerves that control facial muscles or feeling
are rarely permanent. Asymmetry or change in hairline.
Recovery: Back to work: 10 to 14 days. More strenuous activity: 2 weeks or
more. Bruising: 2 to 3 weeks. Must limit exposure to sun for several months.
Duration of Results: Usually 5 to 10 years.
Details: A facelift does not correct wrinkles around the mouth. The choice
of procedure will depend on the thickness, texture and elasticity of the skin, the
degree of the wrinkles and folds. Usually excessive sun exposure produces more wrinkles
and the facelift might have to be combined with a skin resurfacing procedure to
eliminate them. The placement of the incisions will depend on the hairline Another
procedure commonly associated with the facelift is the rejuvenation of the nose
(See Rhinoplasty.) Smokers should stop smoking before surgery. Aspirin should be
avoided to avoid increased bleeding. A bandage may be used to avoid bleeding and
minimize swelling. Drains will be applied to avoid the accumulation of fluids. Recovery
varies greatly. Sleeping with the head elevated helps minimize swelling and bruising.
Bandages and drains should be removed in one or two days. Temporary asymmetry can
be caused by the swelling and bruising and it is normal. Bruising should disappear
in two or three weeks. Makeup can be applied after a few days. Numbness can last
for several weeks. Sun exposure should be avoided for the first month. wait several
weeks to evaluate the "new look." As the aging process continues, some
patients want to make additional improvements in their looks. Some men might have
to shave behind ears, where beard-growing skin is replaced.
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