The Reasons to Undergo a Facelift Procedure
The facelift, technically termed a “rhytidectomy”, is a commonly performed plastic surgery procedure. Over time, everyday facial movements cause creases to form in the face. Other factors that contribute to lines and wrinkles are the use of alcohol and/or tobacco, sun damage, and the breakdown of collagen and elsastin, due to age. Although a maturation of facial features is acceptable as we grow into our looks, most people are unhappy when their features begin to exhibit a negative change.
A facelift can tighten the skin of the face, eliminate jowls and excess skin of the neck, while refreshing a patient’s overall appearance. Improved technology and surgical advancements enable plastic surgeons to provide patients with long lasting, natural looks as the result of this facial cosmetic surgery.
Often times, a facelift procedure is combined with other techniques to enhance the final outcome. This can include laser Rejuvenation, facial implants, facial contouring, injections, as well as other facial or neck procedures.
Facelift Consultation
The first phase of your facelift procedure begins with the initial consultation between you and Dr. Gentile. During this visit, you will be able to discuss areas of your face you wish to change, and ask any questions you may have regarding the facelift. Dr. Gentile will examine your features, and suggest one or more procedures to correct your specific issues. When you are through with your visit, one of Dr. Gentile’s staff members can go over the cost of your treatment plan, as well as payment options to suit your budget.
Candidates for the Facelift Surgery
An ideal candidate for a facelift is a healthy man or woman, wishing to restore youth to the face with this cosmetic surgery. Potential patients should hold a realistic view of a facelift’s potential outcomes, as well as associated risks. Dr. Gentile may cover these two topics during your first visit to his office.
Before the Facelift Surgery
In the weeks or months leading up to a facelift procedure, you may be asked to prepare your body for surgery. This often includes, but is not limited to:
- A physical exam
- Lab work
- Discontinue taking specific medications
- Dicontinue the use of tobacco products (generally smoking)
A facelift surgery is most often performed on an outpatient basis, which means patients can return home following the procedure. In advance, you must arrange for someone to pick you up and care for you after Dr. Gentile has completed the procedure. This trusted adult will be responsible for administering your pain medication, accompanying you on bathroom visits, and ensuring you receive proper fluids following the facelift. Before you receive your facelift, you will learn how to care for your face and surgical sites following the procedure.
The night before your surgery, you will take medications prescribed by Dr. Gentile, and set out the recommended clothes to wear the following day. Food will not be permitted past a certain time due to the anestheisia and/or sedation, which will depend on the time your surgery is scheduled.
The Facelift Procedure
First, an anesthesiologist will administer the medicine appropriate for your specific procedure. This maximizes patient comfort and allows Dr. Gentile to work uninterrupted. When asleep, Dr. Gentile will sanitize your face, and begin incisions. Some doctors mark the face prior to facial procedures, while others create marks as the patients rest. The incisions will be made in specific areas designed to hide future scars. The most popular surgical site is located behind the hairline. The incision continues on either side of the face around the ears, and to the base of the neck. Dr. Gentile may redistribute fat, tighten or lift muscles of the face, or create more incisions if necessary. If sagging skin affects the neckline, a small surgical cut is hidden under the chin and the issue is corrected. After all necessary changes are made to the face, the skin is then repositioned, and the excess is trimmed away. Sutures hold the skin in place until they are removed or dissolve on their own. Special surgical adhesives may also be used to close the incision.
Most patients are able to return to their daily activities ten to fourteen days after undergoing a facelift surgery. Strenuous jobs, vigorous activities such as aerobics, alcohol consumption, saunas, and steam baths must be postponed for several moths, or until Dr. Gentile advises you otherwise. You will visit the doctor shortly after your surgery so he can view your progress and recovery.
