Facelift surgery, or a rhytidectomy, is designed to restore a more youthful appearance by reversing facial aging changes such as deep creases between the nose and mouth, the loosening and slackening of the jaw line, the development of jowls, and the appearance of both folds and fat deposits on and around the neck. While a facelift cannot stop or even slow down the aging process, it can set back the clock by repositioning sagging facial and neck deep structures, including muscles and re-draping skin. Excess skin is then removed at the site of incision around the ear.
Ideal candidates for facelifts are healthy men or women whose skin on their neck and face has begun to sag, although their skin still retains some of its elasticity. While some patients are in their seventies or eighties, most recipients of a facelift are in their forties to sixties. After a facelift, a patient will still look like themselves, and will look younger and fresher.
Dr Chun will evaluate patient's medical history in order to determine their overall health.
Dr Chun's objective is to create a natural appearance that is pleasing to the patient. Before and after photographs will be used to demonstrate possible outcomes. During the consultation, it is also important for the patient to discuss their expectations and goals in order to ensure the desired and realistic outcome. There are many different facelift techniques including minimal scar lift. Dr Chun will discuss options and recommendations. Also a facelift is often accompanied by other procedures such as browlift, eyelid surgery and fat injections. These will also be discussed.
After making skin incisions around hairline and ear (exact location varies with different techniques), the skin flap is lifted from underlying muscles. These muscles are tightened and deeper structures are repositioned. Excess skin is trimmed and re-draped. Combination of internal dissolving and external removable stitches are used to close the skin layers. Drains remove excess fluid and blood from the surgical field postoperatively to promote healing.
It is necessary to have someone drive and stay with the patient for the first 24 hours. Initially there is a facial dressing wrapped around the head. Drains are typically removed on the first postoperative visit. Stitches around the ears will be removed in 7 days. The scalp sutures will be removed in 14 days.
Swelling and bruising gradually resolve over the first two weeks. It may take several months for scars and numbness to settle. Avoid any strenuous activity and alcohol. Allow your body to heal optimally by getting plenty of rest.
Complications following facelift are rare. These include bleeding, infection, loss of skin behind the ears, facial nerve injury, discoloration of the skin, numbness, asymmetry and scarring. As mentioned, the risk of bleeding is greater if aspirin or blood thinners are consumed within 2 weeks of the surgery. The risk of wound complications increases in smokers and diabetics.
By following pre- and post-operative instructions, you will minimize potential problems.
This information is a brief review of the topic but not meant as the definitive description. Please defer to a personal consultation with Dr Chun for all pertinent information.
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