Facelift

Facelift is a generic term used to describe different procedures intended to elevate and tighten sagging facial structures. The objective is to reduce wrinkles and skin folds, achieving a more youthful appearance.

Different factors such as the bony structure of the face, the skin quality and certain hereditary and ambient factors may play an important role in the extent of rejuvenation that may be achieved and on the duration of the result.

A facelift treats tissues in the face with excessive laxity, focusing on the cheeks, jowls, as well as on the periorbital and temporal regions. It may be performed simultaneously with a browlift, necklift or eyelid procedure.

The incisions are placed inside the hairline in the temporal region and are then continued towards the entrance of the external auditory canal and carried around the earlobe ascending behind the ear and ending along the posterior hairline. Through these incisions the facial skin is undermined in order to facilitate its repositioning and excision. Deeper tissues may also be approached in order to directly remove excessive fatty deposits or to provide more tension to the underlying facial musculature that may have become flacid, giving the face a firmer and more youthful look.

How is the recovery?

After the procedure you will have some bruising and swelling around the face, which might also feel tense. Some areas of the face and neck might have a decreased sensitivity. After a few days your appearance will improve, and within two to four weeks you will begin to see what your final result will more or less look like. Most of the scars will be hidden inside the hairline and on the normal lines and creases around the ears which will make them practically imperceptible.

At what age may I have face-lift procedure performed?

Presently, these procedures are indicated in patients over the age of 40, or even earlier in some circumstances. Before that age, other minimally invasive procedures may provide a youthful appearance for some time.

How long do the results last?

Facelift procedures not only provide a considerable rejuvenation effect, but when adequately performed, they also achieve a long lasting result. If after several years new signs of aging appear, they may be redone, often with a simple retightening through the previous incisions.