The rate of aging in facial skin is affected by nutrition, smoking, the physical environment, genetics, weight alterations, menopause and of course, the passing of time. All of these factors contribute to aging characteristics such as descending cheek fat pads, deep nasolabial folds, deep marionette lines, folds and fat deposits in the neck, and jowling.
Although a Face Lift can't stop the aging process, it does set back the clock by eliminating the most obvious signs of aging. The Face Lift procedure achieves a natural, healthier, well rested and refreshed appearance. Although most Face Lift procedures are performed on individuals over the age of 40, some patients in their 30s pursue the Mini-Face Lift procedure to correct for early signs of aging in the mid-face area. For more advanced aging, other facial rejuvenation procedures such as Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), Brow Lift and CO2 Laser Resurfacing are often combined with the Face Lift procedure.
The Procedure
There are two options with regards to the Rhytidectomy (Face Lift) procedure:
Rhytidectomy, which includes a Neck Lift,
Mini-Rhytidectomy, which does not include a Neck Lift.
Rhytidectomy
Face Lift incisions are well hidden in the natural creases around the ear, in the scalp, and when needed, under the chin. The excess skin and fat is removed, the underlying muscles and deep soft tissues are tightened and the skin of the face and neck is redraped. This results in a natural facial rejuvenation while avoiding the pulled, unnatural Face Lift appearance that is seen too frequently in tabloid magazines. The procedure can take between 2 to 3 hours depending upon many patient factors. To maximize patient comfort, this procedure is often performed under general anaesthesia, however, some patients elect to have it performed with local freezing and sedation.
Mini Rhytidectomy
This procedure is primarily for younger patients who do not yet have excessive aging of the neck. A Mini-Rhytidectomy improves the nasolabial fold, marionette lines, mild jowling, and the descent of the cheek fat pad. The incisions are made in front of and inside the ear (hidden in the natural ear creases) and minimally into the hairline. No incision is made behind the ear or on the chin. This procedure is often performed under general anaesthesia, however, in selected patients it can be performed with local freezing and sedation.
Dr. Barr does perform the "Short Scar Face Lift". During the consultation this option will be discussed with you. As always, Dr. Barr will make suggestions and recommendations which will take into account your specific situation and your long term aesthetic goals, to optimize your final result.
The Post-Operative Course
Rhytidectomy patients are admitted overnight, while Mini-Rhytidectomy patients are discharged the same day. Patients are usually up and around within 1 or 2 days, but should limit their activity for about 1 week. Fine sutures around the ear are removed painlessly at 5 days post-operatively, while the scalp sutures (not used in the Mini-Rhytidectomy) are removed at 10 days post-operatively. Some bruising, swelling and discomfort will be present for 7-14 days but most patients return to work with cover-up makeup at 10-12 days.
Patients are requested to participate in only light activities for the first 3 weeks following surgery. After 3 weeks, patients are able to return to full normal activity (heavy lifting).
Patients will notice a dramatic difference in their facial and neck appearance. Deep folds and creases are diminished, sagging skin is gone and the general facial appearance is more youthful and refreshed. Specifically, patients will note a significant elevation of their cheek prominence, a dramatic softening of the nasolabial fold as well as the marionette lines and jowls.
Concurrent Treatment
Other facial rejuvenation procedures such as Brow Lift, Blepharoplasty, Rhinoplasty, CO2 Laser Resurfacing, Fat Micrografts, TCA Peels and Lip Augmentation are commonly combined with the Rhytidectomy procedure.
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