Face Lift (Rhytidectomy)
Face Lift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure performed to enhance the appearance of the face through lifting the skin and other tissues in the face and neck, restoring them to their more youthful appearance. As we age, the skin naturally sags and wrinkles. The goal of a facelift is to help the facial appearance become younger and more relaxed-looking by reversing some of these visible signs of aging.
Is a Face Lift Right for Me?
Most facelift candidates in Staten Island, New York are between the ages of 35 and 65 and are starting to see signs of aging, particularly wrinkles and folds, in their face. Facelifts are also popular for both younger and older patients, although it is best to undergo this procedure when some elasticity still remains in the facial skin. Most facelifts focus on the jowls, cheeks, and other areas of the lower face, although the appearance of the forehead and the middle of the face may also be improved with rhytidectomy.
Among the many reasons to undergo a facelift include:
* Smoothing of fine lines and wrinkles
* The possibility of a younger, well-rested appearance
* Reduction of sagging facial skin
* Improvement of deep facial folds, such as forehead lines and laugh lines
Ideal candidates have realistic expectations about this procedure. A facelift cannot make you look like someone else, though it can take years off your appearance.
Procedure Details
There are several options for facelift incision patterns and surgical methods. Your choice should be based on your individual goals and desires, and should be made in consultation with the surgeon. Facelifts in Staten Island, NY can range from minor procedures to major surgery. Minor facelifts are associated with a shorter recovery period, but may not be able to create the dramatic results seen with more invasive facelift procedures. You may find it helpful to view facelift before after photos when discussing the potential results of the procedure. The facelift can be combined with a wide range of other cosmetic treatments for a complete skin rejuvenation procedure.
Facelifts require general anesthesia, and take two to six hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery. First, an incision, often but not always located in front of the ear, allows the surgeon to access underlying tissues. Once the incisions have been created, your surgeon will remove excess skin and/or fat while recontouring and lifting the remaining facial tissue in order to counteract the natural aging process.
Recovery After Facelifts
After rhytidectomy, patients in Staten Island typically take a week or two away from work. To begin with, the face will be bandaged, and patients can expect swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Staten Island facelift patients are advised to wear shirts that button down to avoid damaging the fragile tissues as they heal. Other potential side effects include temporary numbness or tightness as the affected tissues heal in their new position. Some residual swelling can last up to three months. Facelift patients in Staten Island report that the results of their procedure remain visible for five to ten years. |