Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Candidates for a facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, typically wish to address signs of aging in the face and neck, such as deep wrinkles, sagging skin, jowls and loose neck skin. Ideal candidates include the following:

• Generally healthy individuals
• Non-smokers
• Those with realistic expectations about the limitations of surgery

Patients typically range in age from 40 to 70, as these individuals may show signs of aging that can be corrected by a facelift. However, the procedure can be appropriate for anyone who has experienced premature aging and wants to restore their face and neck to a more youthful appearance.

The technique used for a facelift depends on your specific needs and goals. A traditional facelift involves incisions made at the hairline near the temples, continuing around the ear and ending behind the ear. This technique allows for the removal of excess skin and the tightening of underlying tissues including the muscles in your face that have weakened over time. We may combine these techniques with fat grafting to achieve more natural-looking results.

This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes several hours. Dr. Tieman, our board-certified plastic surgeon, will carefully reposition the deeper layers of facial muscles and tissues, remove or redistribute fat, trim and redrape the skin. Incisions are meticulously closed with sutures around the hairline and in the natural contours of the face and ears.

Recovery from a facelift requires patience and conscientious post-operative care. Swelling and bruising are common and final results will take time to fully reveal themselves. As your nerves heal, you may experience numbness and discomfort at the incision site(s) including tightness and itching. Patients are typically advised to keep their heads elevated and avoid strenuous activities during the first few weeks to aid the healing process. The use of cold compresses can also help reduce swelling. Most patients can return to normal activities within two to three weeks, although complete healing can take up to several months.

A facelift can significantly rejuvenate a patient's appearance by reducing sagging, tightening facial tissues and smoothing deep folds. The results are long-lasting and help patients appear younger for many years. However, it's important to note that a facelift does not stop the natural aging process, and some patients choose to undergo minor revisions or additional treatments in the future. Overall, a successful facelift can boost self-esteem and provide a more vibrant and rested look.