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Introduction: Facelift is also called 'rhytidectomy,' which means 'wrinkle excision.' Wrinkles are the result of aging,
as well as gravity, sun damage, weight fluctuation and stress. While a facelift can't stop the aging process, it can produce
a more youthful and relaxed appearance. A face lift may also be combined with other procedures such as forehead lift, eyelid
surgery or nose reshaping.
Suitable candidates for face lift:
Women and men who have loose skin in the neck and along the jawline ('jowls'), and deep 'smile lines' in the midface.
While many patients are in their fifties and sixties, older patients may also undergo the procedure as long as they are in
good health. Younger patients may also undergo the procedure as needed. Techniques are modified according the individual needs
of the patient.
Planning your surgery: The surgeon will evaluate your face, including the skin and underlying bone structure, and discuss
your goals for the surgery. The surgeon will check for medical problem such as high blood pressure, blood clotting problems,
or the tendency to form excessive scars. If you are a smoker, it will be important to stop smoking for three weeks before and
after the surgery; nicotine inhibits blood flow to the skin, and interferes with healing. If you take aspirin or related
medications, you will be asked to stop for ten days before surgery (with the permission of your personal doctor). Most patients
will need ten to fourteen days of recovery prior to returning to work.
Surgery: A face lift surgery usually takes several hours. Every surgeon performs the procedure in his or her own way. The
incisions are started above the hair line in the temples, and extend downward in the natural line in front of the ear. The
incision continues around the earlobe and behind the ear, and then back into the hair-bearing skin behind the ear. Sometimes,
a small incision is made under the chin as well if the neck needs additional tightening. The surgeon lifts and tightens the
skin, while also tightening deeper tissue and removing/repositioning fat. The wound is then sutured closed (metal clips may be
used on the scalp). Small drainage tubes are left under the skin for a day, to drain any blood or fluid that collects. The head
is loosely wrapped in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling.
Post operative care: The surgery may be performed as an outpatient, or you may be asked to spend one night in the surgery
center. Discomfort following a facelift is usually quite modest, and can be minimized with oral pain medication. To minimize
swelling after surgery, the head should be kept elevated for the first few days, and it's best to take soft foods to avoid
excessive chewing. Drain tube are removed and bandages changed on the first day after surgery. Sutures are removed in about one
week. Your face may appear bruised and puffy at first, but most of this resolves within two weeks. Some mild numbness of the skin
is normal after a facelift, and this will typically disappear within a few months. You should avoid strenuous activity for two
weeks, and sports for four to six weeks after surgery.
Your new look: Within a few weeks, most patients are enjoying their new, refreshed appearance. Scars are well hidden after
facelift; though they may be red at first, they will fade with time and become difficult to see in most cases.
Risks involved: When a facelift is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, significant complications are unusual. By
carefully following your doctor's instructions, you can assist in lowering the risks of surgery. Complications can occur,
however, including:
Bleeding - blood can collect under the skin after surgery, forming a 'hematoma,' and this may require a reoperation to drain the blood.
Infection can occur, but this is quite rare.
Unfavorable scars are also unusual in the face, but may result.
Injury to the nerves that control facial expression can result. This is usually temporary, but can be permanent.
Healing problems may occur, particularly in patients who smoke.
If you are considering a facelift in Beverly Hills - contact board certified plastic surgeon Dr Rudkin at 310.410.4599
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