Your guide to facelifts

A facelift is a surgical operation performed to treat severe facial sagging and skin laxity. While many patients have spent their hard-earned money on quick fixes like fillers and injectables, a growing number of people are realizing that there is simply no substitute for a traditional facelift. While many alternative treatments tend to last only a number of months, this procedure will maintain its results for more than ten years. In this article, we will describe this procedure and provide information to help prospective patients make a more informed decision.

Facelifts can correct many aspects of appearance, including:
• Sagging of the middle third of the face
• Loss of muscle tone
• Displaced or sagging fat deposits
• Deep creases under the lower eyelids
• Deep wrinkles that extend from the corner of the mouth to the nose
• Flaccidity in the middle of the face
• Excess fat deposits and loose skin under the jaw and chin, causing the appearance of a double chin

Before surgery, you will want to schedule a consultation. This evaluation will help determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Your doctor will review your medical history and evaluate your skin elasticity, facial bone structure, folds and wrinkles, as well as your hairline. Be prepared to discuss your general expectations related to the procedure as well. Pictures will also be taken before.

Once the decision has been made to go ahead with the procedure, you will likely receive a list of instructions. These instructions will describe everything from medication use to smoking and various activities. Be sure to tell your doctor about all current medications.

Quitting smoking before your operation is essential for a healthy recovery. In general, it is recommended that patients stop smoking for a month before and after the operation. Smoking greatly reduces blood flow to areas of the face, greatly increasing the chances of skin dying around the incision area during recovery.

The entire operation usually takes two to four hours to complete. Most procedures are outpatient, however, overnight stays can usually be arranged. Some discomfort should be expected afterwards. This can be controlled through the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications. In general, patients should refrain from attending lavish social events for up to three months to ensure full recovery.

Those hoping to learn more about their options related to facelift surgery are encouraged to make an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she will be able to better assess your individual case and make recommendations accordingly.

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