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COSMETIC SURGERY
PROCEDURES
COSMETIC SURGERY PROCEDURES
FACE LIFT
PHOTOS · DETAILS · PROCEDURE · RECOVERY · FAQs
BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS
If you are concerned by signs of aging in your face, a facelift may provide a solution for a younger looking appearance. Also known as rhytidectory, a facelift is a surgical procedure to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck. These can include:
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Sagging in the midface |
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Creasing around the nose and mouth |
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Fat that has fallen or is displaced |
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Loss of muscle tone in the lower face that may create jowls |
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Loose skin and excess fatty deposits under the chin, jaw and neck |
In most cases, your surgeon will perform the facelift by making an incision within the hairline, above the temple and along or just inside the ear, ending behind the ear. This allows access to tighten underlying tissue, and remove excess skin. The sagging neck and lower face are lifted.
Sometimes, a second incision under the chin is necessary. If skin tone is good and the only correction needed is mid-face aging or excess fat in the neck, a shorter incision may be used. This shorter incision is sometimes referred to as a minimally invasive lift, S lift, lunch lift and other names.
As part of the facelift, Liposuction techniques may be used for the removal of fat deposits.
Generally, swelling and bruising should subside within 2 weeks. Final results may be seen in 1-2 months. Over the period of approximately one year, the incision lines will continue to refine and fade. If the procedure is less invasive, the recovery time will usually be shorter..
What is a facelift?
A facelift is a surgical procedure, which helps to improve the most visible signs of aging in the lower two-thirds of the face. Also known as rhytidectomy, a facelift involves the removal of sagging skin and excess fat, as well as the tightening of neck muscles.
Who is a good candidate for a facelift?
One of the most important criteria for having a facelift is that you be physically healthy. In addition, you should be realistic in your expectations of the surgery and results, and aware of the risks and benefits. A facelift is primarily intended to reduce the appearance of sagging skin on the face and neck. Patients who experience the best results are those who have a well-defined bone structure and skin that has some elasticity.
Is there anything that a facelift cannot fix?
A traditional facelift treats the jowls and neck. If you are looking to enhance the upper part of the face, a browlift may be a better solution.
Are there any age restrictions to who can undergo a facelift?
There are no age restrictions, but most patients are between 40 and 60 years old.
Where does the facelift procedure take place?
Your consultation with Dr. Kopolovic will be held at the AVIVA MedSpa and Cosmetic Surgery Center. Your actual surgery will be performed on an outpatient basis at the Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center in St. Charles.
What type of anesthesia is used?
For more involved procedures, you will receive a general anesthetic, which means you will be fully asleep. For less complicated procedures, you receive twilight anesthesia. With this type of anesthesia, you will be sedated, but not conscious.
How long will it take for my facelift surgery?
Usually, it will take a few hours to complete your facelift. If a more comprehensive procedure is performed, it could take longer. Sometimes, multiple sessions may be recommended.
Will I have any scars after my facelift?
Any scars will be small and they will be hidden. Usually, the incisions are made behind the ears and in the natural creases of the skin. These incision marks usually heal as minute lines and are generally well camouflaged.
Will my facelift surgery be painful?
Some pain or discomfort is common, but is usually minor and tolerable. If needed, you will be prescribed medication to help you feel comfortable.
What can I expect after surgery?
There will be a recovery period, so it’s a good idea to plan on a few days rest. Immediately after surgery your face may appear bruised or pale. Some patients experience numbness, but this will be temporary. Swelling is to be expected, but can be controlled by keeping your head elevated during the first few days after the procedure. Your stitches will be removed about one week after your surgery.
Will I have bandages on my face?
That depends on your procedure. Sometimes bandages are applied to the head or neck, but usually they are removed in a day or so. A light bandage may be applied for a longer period of time.
When can I return to work?
That depends on the complexity of your facelift. For more comprehensive surgery, you should plan on taking off for about 10 – 14 days. This will give your face time to return to a more normal appearance, and for swelling to subside and bruising to fade. Some bruising can take two to three weeks to fully fade. If your procedure is minimal, you can expect to return to work sooner.
When can I start being active and exercising again?
You should avoid strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for the first two weeks. It’s also recommended that you limit sun exposure.
How much will my facelift cost?
That depends on the procedure, and we will review the costs in detail with you. You should be aware that because a facelift is considered a cosmetic procedure, it is generally not covered by insurance. Financing plans are available if you would like to take advantage of them.