Facelift

As people age, the effects of gravity, exposure to the sun, and the stresses of daily life can be seen in their faces.

Deep creases form between the nose and mouth; the jawline grows slack and jowly; folds and fat deposits appear around the neck.

                                           Before                     After

Photos courtesy of Dr Sando, Indiana

A facelift, or Rhytidectomy, can't stop the ageing process but it can "set back the clock", improving the most visible signs of ageing by removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles, and re-draping the skin of your face and neck. A facelift can be done alone, or in conjunction with other procedures such as a browlift, eyelid surgery, or nose reshaping.

Facelift surgery usually takes several hours or somewhat longer if you're having more than one surgical procedure done. For extensive surgical procedures, some surgeons may schedule two separate sessions.

Incisions usually begin above the hairline at the temples, extend in a natural line in front of the ear (or just inside the cartilage at the front of your ear), and continue behind the earlobe to the lower scalp. If the neck needs work, a small incision may also be made under the chin.

In general, the surgeon separates the skin from the fat and muscle below. Fat may be trimmed or suctioned from around the neck and chin to improve the contour. The surgeon then tightens the underlying muscle and membrane, pulls the skin back, and removes the excess. Stitches secure the layers of tissue and close the incisions; metal clips may be used on the scalp.

Following surgery, a small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin behind your ear to drain any blood that might collect there. The surgeon may also wrap your head loosely in bandages to minimise bruising and swelling. The face remains swollen, puffy and bruised for 2-3 weeks. Sometimes areas of numbness occur within the face due to the nature of the procedure, however this should only effect the sensation of the skin and not the muscle functions.

Male Facelift

With changing standards of aesthetics of the male face, and more liberal  attitudes concerning facial rejuvenation surgery, many men are now  seeking the benefits of facial cosmetic surgery procedures. The concept  of facelift and necklift in men is basically the same as in women, but the approach is tailored to highlight and sharpen the angular structures of the jaw, neck, and chin, with less emphasis on crows feet, cheekbones and naso-labial (fold from nose to corners of the mouth) regions. 

Facelift combined with a Neck Lift

Photos courtesy of Dr DeWire, USA

The appearance of fresh and sharp angular contours leads to a well-rested, and relaxed appearance, but translates to the perception of a more youthful appearance. Recovery time is usually 10 to 14 days before  swelling and possible bruising resolve, although recovery times will vary  and may be shorter. Although a facelift and necklift will restore the major facial contours, especially the jawline, finer wrinkles of the skin will persist but can be improved by Laser Skin Resurfacing.  

Average Cost: $7000-$15000

Please ask your doctor for further information.

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View Before and After Photos

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