Face lift

The natural aging process is a combination of the effects of gravity as well as a loss of facial volume that ultimately leads to the sagging of facial skin. A face lift is a surgical procedure that attempts to reverse the aging process by removing the excess sagging skin as well as refilling the lost facial volume by resuspending facial muscles, and redraping and/or removal of excess facial skin for a smoother, firmer appearance. A facelift can improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck, such as:

• Sagging in the midface
• Deep creases below the lower eyelids
• Deep creases between the nose and mouth
• Fat that has fallen or is displaced
• Loss of muscle tone in the lower face that may create jowls
• Loose skin and excess fatty deposits under the chin and jaw

The final result is a fuller, more youthful lower face, jawline and neck area.

Procedure: Typical incisions begin within the hairline, above the temple and continue along or just inside the ear, ending behind the ear. This allows access to tighten underlying tissue, remove excess fat and reduce sagging skin.

A second incision under the chin is sometimes necessary. If skin tone is good and only mid-face aging or excess fat in the neck will be corrected, abbreviated techniques with shorter incisions may be used. Liposuction techniques may assist with removal of fat deposits.

Results: Swelling and bruising should subside within 2-4 weeks. Final results may be apparent in 1-2 months. Incision lines will continue to refine and fade for 1 year.