As we age, the skin and tissue naturally lose elasticity which results in sagging or wrinkles. Facelift surgery provides patients with a simple solution to eliminate face and neck wrinkles, thereby rejuvenating the skin and eliminating signs of aging.If you are interested in undergoing a rhytidectomy or learning more, please contact one of our Charlotte, or Gastonia offices. Our staff is happy to help you achieve the youthful and revitalized appearance that you desire.
What is Facelift Surgery?
Facelift surgeries, also known as a rhytidectomy, can take years off your appearance by tightening sagging skin in the face, jaw, and neck. This procedure also targets any wrinkles on the face, including creases surrounding the mouth and nose.
During a facelift, the surgeon repositions fat and tissue under the skin to smooth out wrinkles and tighten the facial skin. Any excess sagging skin may also be removed during the procedure. Although a facelift surgery cannot change an individual's facial structure, it can provide more effective results that are unattainable with non-surgical treatments.
A mini facelift can be performed using shorter incisions in patients with minimal sagging or wrinkles.
Benefits of Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgeries help to tighten facial muscles, repair loose skin, and improve contours without looking unnatural. Unlike non-surgical options, facelift surgery is able to treat the neck area as well as the face.
The effects of facelift surgery last for many years and are increasingly affordable for patients. Non-surgical options tend to require regular touch-ups to maintain the desired results. Depending on the age and specific circumstances of the patient, a surgical facelift may be more effective than other treatments.
Risks and Side Effects of Facelift Surgery
Just like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects that come with facelift surgery. In cosmetic procedures, complications are fairly rare, occurring in fewer than 1% of outpatient surgeries. Some potential side effects of facelift surgery include:
| • | Anesthesia complications |
| • | Blood clots |
| • | Infection |
| • | Numbness or nerve damage |
| • | Scarring |
| • | Blood Loss |
The best way to reduce side effects is to choose a fully certified surgeon with a guaranteed level of expertise. Our expert team at Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery will walk you through the pros and cons of facelift surgery. We'll help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
What to Expect During a Facelift
Prior to your operation, there will be an initial complimentary consultation to examine your skin condition and medical history. At this time, your surgeon will take medical conditions, drug allergies, substance usage, and previous procedures into account to develop a personalized treatment plan.
The procedure itself typically lasts between two and three hours, depending on the extent of work that is performed. The surgery takes place in one of our OR's that are right in our office and the relative ease of recovery means that you can return home the same day.
Although the exact surgical procedure will vary for each patient, the general steps your surgeon will follow include:
| 1. | Administer anesthesia. Based on patient preference, this could be intravenous sedation or general anesthesia to reduce discomfort. |
| 2. | Make an incision into the face or neck. This is traditionally located on the hairline near the temples, behind the ears, or under the chin. These are strategically placed to blend in with the patient's hairline or facial structure. |
| 3. | Redistribute and tighten facial tissue. The doctor will reposition underlying muscle, skin, and connective tissue for a rejuvenated look. In some cases, excess fat will be removed during this stage. |
| 4. | Close the incisions. The incisions are closed using dissolvable sutures. In other cases, the sutures may need to be removed after a few days by the doctor. Bandages will be applied over the incisions to help protect them as they heal. |
As you will be under anesthesia during the procedure, patients will not be able to drive themselves after surgery. You should arrange for someone to drive you to and from the office.
Recovery from Facelift Surgery
Recovery from a facelift procedure typically takes several weeks, although the exact time will depend on the individual patient. It is normal to encounter pain, swelling, and bruising during recovery and patients should take it easy in order to protect the incisions.
Limiting sun exposure and strenuous activity will give your incisions time to heal and help speed up recovery.
Once the swelling and bruising go away, you will be able to see the full results of the surgery and enjoy your rejuvenated appearance. Our team will be here throughout the procedure to provide instructions and prescribe pain medication for your healthy and quick recovery.
How Much Does Facelift Surgery Cost?
At Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery, our committed team will work with patients to manage health insurance and financial planning options. Schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation today to go over your options.
Why Choose Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery?
If you're considering a facelift in Charlotte, NC, our certified surgeon is specifically trained to treat the jaw and face. Dr. Marashi is an expert in successfully treating underlying issues along with cosmetic conditions due to his extensive knowledge in the field. Our team is committed to offering personalized and immediate care for rhytidectomy in Charlotte and Gastonia areas. Using our years of experience and dedication to patients, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan to meet your needs and refresh your appearance.
Facial Surgery FAQs
How long does a facelift last?
Although it depends on the individual, the effects of a facelift surgery can last up to ten years. With age, the skin of the face and neck can begin to sag again and require another surgery to maintain the desired results. Taking care of your skin and leading a healthy lifestyle is crucial in prolonging the results of the procedure. Patients who maintain a balanced diet and exercise regime will typically enjoy their youthful appearance over a longer period of time.
At what age should you get a facelift?
Most patients choose to get facelifts in their 40s to 50s. However, the procedure can successfully be performed on individuals in their 70s and beyond. Good candidates for rhytidectomy are in overall good health, non-smokers, and are beginning to notice the signs of aging in their facial features. At this stage, a facelift surgery can help turn back the clock.
How many years younger will I look with a facelift?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, patients rate themselves as looking an average of 12 years younger after facelift surgery. Although the procedure can't stop you from aging, it can help you look younger by tightening skin and removing excess fat. The results and longevity of your procedure are affected by individual factors such as bone structure, genetics, skin texture, and sun exposure.
Will my face look natural after facelift surgery?
When performed by a skilled surgeon, cosmetic facelift procedures can leave you looking naturally younger and rejuvenated. This is achieved through redistributing the muscle and tissue in the face for a fresher appearance. Your surgeon will work with you to ensure the results do not look unnatural.
To request a consultation and learn more about our services, please request an appointment now. We look forward to helping you improve your oral health and smile!
