Face lifts

Facelifts are designed to decrease the signs of aging and skin damage in the face and neck. Over time, lifestyle habits such as smoking, sunbathing, outdoor activities, and stress can change the appearance of the face. Deep wrinkles and sagging skin appear, as does the desire to look youthful again.

Facelifts today allow men and women to look as much as 5 to 10 years younger. People who have successful facelifts look better and usually feel better about themselves.

Facelift procedures involve removing excess face and neck skin and tightening underlying tissues. This is done in a 2 to 5 hour surgery. Incision lines are kept within the natural creases and lines of the skin to hide scars. The surgeon makes an incision from the temple, around the earlobe, to the back of the neck. After it is separated from muscle and fat, the skin is pulled upwards. Excess skin is then cut away. Muscles are tightened and excess fat is removed before closing the incisions. Incisions made outside the hairline usually fade and become less noticeable over time.

Dressings (if any) are removed a few days after surgery. Pain is usually minimal and can be controlled with medication. Swelling and bruising decrease within 1 or 2 weeks. The final effects will not be seen for 3 weeks or more. During the healing process, some numbness or tightness may be felt in the face or neck. Once healing is complete, the natural lines and contours of the face are restored, giving a rested and refreshed appearance.

There are risks and complications that can occur with facelift. Before agreeing to a facelift procedure, find out as much as possible about the procedure, the risks involved, and the plastic surgeon you may be considering. Always select a board certified plastic surgeon with training and experience in the procedure you want done. The surgeon will evaluate your face and advise you on which procedure will give you the best results.

The benefits and costs will also be explained. Health insurance usually does not pay for elective cosmetic surgery such as a facelift.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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