Facelift surgery, also known as wrinkleectomy, is one of the most sought-after plastic surgery procedures in the world. This procedure is performed to improve the physical signs of aging, which occurs as a natural process.
As people age and lose their youthful appearance, time shows on their faces. Fine expression marks on the forehead, for example, gradually develop into bold creases, which eventually become deeper creases. The once firm jawline becomes softer and droops, giving people what is colloquially referred to as a “turkey neck” or double chin.
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We do not escape the factors that contribute to the natural aging process of the face. These include a genetic predisposition that combines with factors such as the pull of gravity, sun exposure and personal habits to determine how gracefully or not people will age.
The facelift operation is done to reverse the signs of aging. However, it cannot completely stop the aging process and the surgery itself will not change one’s fundamental appearance. Surgery is the only way to achieve the desired results. However, it can be supplemented with non-surgical treatments for facial rejuvenation.
Preoperative assessment
Before getting a facelift, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, patients must be suitable candidates for the procedure. This means that a patient must have good general health, well-defined facial bones, supple and flexible skin, and realistic expectations of surgical results.
Skin elasticity is important as the skin is tightened during the procedure to minimize wrinkles. An underlying bone structure that is well defined is essential for satisfactory results. Most importantly, candidates for the procedure should fully understand the limitations associated with the surgery so that they do not have unrealistic expectations.
When planning the procedure, the surgeon determines what type of anesthesia will be used in addition to the locations where the incisions will be made. If the patient smokes, it is recommended to stop for at least one or two weeks before the operation and one or two weeks after.
Types of facelifts
Together with the patient, surgeons will determine the type of facelift to be used. Traditional facelifts usually offer results that are the most comprehensive and target a larger area of the face and neck. The incisions are therefore larger and are popular with patients in their fifth and sixth decades of life.
Unlike traditional facelifts, midfacelifts are done to target tissue around the cheeks and eyes, with deeper incisions used to reach muscles not touched during a traditional facelift. In addition, the mid-facelift is more suitable for younger patients looking for a simple rejuvenation, as this type of procedure does not address all the typical signs of aging.
Mini or weekend facelifts target very small areas, which are mainly the neck, lower cheeks or jawline, and are more popular with younger patients. Lower facelifts are performed on the lower third of the face, while thread lifts are minimally invasive alternatives to a full facelift. A thread lift involves very small incisions to lift the underlying facial muscles.
Techniques
There are many different techniques that can be used to achieve the various types of facelifts. Endoscopic approaches can be used for all types of facelifts, especially those involving smaller areas. Endoscopic facelift requires the use of small incisions with the help of a camera and surgical instruments.
Skin facelifts are another type of technique, which is among the oldest techniques, and are mainly done to correct sagging and remove excess skin. Dermal techniques have largely been replaced by superficial musculo-neuroalveolar system (SMAS) lifts, which are more comprehensive and achieve more natural-looking results.
Difference between mini facelift and full facelift? Shapiro Plastic Surgery, AZ
Another type of lift technique is the S-lift, in which an S-shaped incision is made near the ear. The results of this procedure are not as great as other techniques. However, it is associated with reduced costs and faster recovery time. S-lifts are also commonly used to sculpt the lower face and jawline.
A deep facelift is another type of technique used to reach levels that the SMAS technique does not. Additionally, deep facelifts must be performed by well-equipped and trained surgeons, as there is a greater risk of nerve damage. Even deeper tissues can be reached with the subperiosteal facelift, although the primary goal of this procedure, like other types of facelifts, is to address skin laxity and remove excess skin.
Post-surgery
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After surgery, there is some pain, which is usually minimal, as well as some bruising and swelling. Keeping the head elevated, along with applying cold compresses, will reduce swelling. There are very few complications when it comes to facelift surgery. However, like any other surgery, there are some risks that patients should be aware of.
The stitches are usually removed within a week. However, recovery time can take up to three weeks. Scars do not become noticeable with the passage of time. If done masterfully, a facelift will result in an appearance that is as naturally beautiful as possible with no obvious signs of surgery.
