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What is a Face Lift?
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The Goal of Facial Rejuvenation
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| More Information about Face Lifts Facelifts are performed in outpatient surgical centers or in an accredited physician's office-based surgical center. Local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is most commonly used, with premedication to help you relax. General anesthesia is not required for this type of procedure. The surgeon will make incisions inside the hairline at the temple, in front of the ear, then around the earlobe and behind the ear, ending at the hairline behind the ear. Excess skin is removed and sagging muscles and connective tissues are tightened. In some cases, fatty deposits are removed from beneath the chin and neck. Incisions are closed with small sutures that are removed in about 5-6 days. There should be little evidence of a scar within a few weeks, and over time they should fade enough that they are difficult to find. In the weeks following the surgery, the facial skin and area around the ear may be numb. There may also be some temporary discoloration and mild bruising as healing begins, which may take a few months to disappear. Occasionally, the facial nerve is bruised during surgery, resulting in temporary loss of function or sensation. However, actual permanent damage to the facial nerve is rare. The healing process is gradual, so you will not notice final results for up to 6 months. A tighter neck and jaw line, however, may be immediately apparent, even with some mild swelling. A single procedure often achieves the desired results and should last for many years. Most patients who have had facelifts are pleased with their new, more youthful appearance. |
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