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Facelift (Rhytidectomy):

Facelift is a surgical procedure to tighten face and neck skin. Facelifts range in size from "mini" to "standard," depending on location and extent of skin laxity.

Who is an Ideal Candidate? | Procedure Description | Recuperation and Healing | What to Expect (Results) | Insurance Coverage

Who is an Ideal Candidate?

People who:

Have lost skin elasticity and muscle tone in their face and neck.
Have jowls and deep creases between the base of the nose and the corners of the mouth.
Have facial and neck wrinkles.
Believe they lack youthful chin and neck contours, as well as a tired facial appearance.

Procedure Description

The operation is done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with sedation, or under general anesthesia.
Incisions are started within the hairline (or along the hair margin) above the ear, and extend down around the lobe. The incisions end in or below the hairline behind the ear.
Once the incision is made, the subcutaneous layers and neck muscles are tightened, the facial skin is redraped and lifted, and the excess skin is removed.

Recuperation and Healing

Patients go home with their heads and necks wrapped in dressings, which are usually removed the next day.
Minimal initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication.
All sutures are removed within 10 days. Bruising and swelling decrease to "socially acceptable" levels in 10 to 20 days.
The final result is evident in four to six weeks or sooner, with continued improvement for several months.

What to Expect (Results)

A more rested and youthful contour to the face and neck.
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Insurance Coverage

Because this procedure is considered cosmetic, it is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for payment.
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