Face Lift
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that is designed to tighten the skin of the face to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, in order to give a more youthful appearance.
There are several techniques available for a facelift procedure but most commonly the surgeon makes a cut around the hairline and past the front of the ear. This can sometimes also extend under the chin. The skin is then separated from the underlying muscles of the face and drawn more tightly to give a natural younger appearance.
Who is it for?
The facelift is a very common surgery. It tends to be for older women and men who want to look younger. Although it is usually people who are naturally older it can be effective for people whose skin may has aged prematurely, perhaps through sun damage or smoking.
A consultation regarding the risks and limitations of surgery will help you to choose a procedure that will meet with your expectations.
Considerations
The facelift operation may be performed under general anaethesia and usually takes a couple of hours although the operative time and your length of stay in hospital will be determined by the extent of surgery as discussed at the initial consultation.You will usually be able to leave the hospital after 1-2 days.
Following facelift surgery a dressing will be required. The face will be swollen for a number of days. There may be some numbness or pain, replaced by itching which can take up to six months to stop as the nerves heal.
You will be probably need to take at least 1-2 weeks off work and avoid strenuous activity for 2-4 weeks.