Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Facelift is a cosmetic procedure that involves elevating or lifting the skin and tightening of the underlying muscles and tissues. Facelift or rhytidectomy improves the signs of ageing in your face and neck. A facelift removes excess skin folds or wrinkles. This procedure can reduce the sagginess and folds of skin on your face.

1. Help tighten the skin on your face and neck.
2. Eliminate wrinkles
3. Decrease wrinkles or crease lines between your nose and the corners of the mouth.
4. Eliminate drooping skin on your jaws and skin.
5. Natural-looking results
6. Very less or no scars
7. Avoid extra fat or loose skin that looks like a double chin in the neck region.
8. Helps in decreasing skin elasticity 

As you age, the shape and appearance of your face are altered because of the normal ageing process. You may need to get a Facelift  if you notice any of the following changes: 

1. Sagginess on your cheeks and forehead.
2. Excess skin on your lower jawline
3. Crease, lines or deep folds of skin from the side of your nose to the corner of your mouth.
4. Excess fat on the neck
5. Wrinkles in various facial areas
6. A tired, aged facial appearance
7. Drooping along the jawline
8. Facial fat on your cheeks
9. Less elasticity

Many different facelift surgeries depend on which areas of your face need to be lifted. Some of them are: 

1. Traditional facelift: A traditional facelift surgery is generally recommended for people who want optimal improvement. This surgery involves incisions around your hairline, ears, and below your chin. Your surgeon separates the skin from the underlying tissues and tightens the muscles. Your surgeon will also remove excess fat from your jowls and neck. 
2. Deep plane facelift: The deep plane facelift is the most invasive facelift technique. This procedure allows for a more successful flattening of the nasolabial fold, resulting in a more substantial and long-lasting result. This particular facelift specifically targets the mid-face region and reaches deeper layers of the facial muscle. 
3. Mid-facelift: This type mainly treats the cheek area of your face. Your surgeon repositions the fat and tightens the skin in this area.
4. Mini-facelift: A mini-facelift surgery mainly focuses on lifting your lower face and neck area.
5. Cutaneous or skin facelift: This type of surgery involves your skin only. Your surgeon will usually focus on your neck and the lower part of your face.

Some people who undergo facelift surgery also get their other surgeries done at the same time, including:

1. Rhinoplasty/nose job
2. Brow lift
3. Facial implants
4. Laser skin resurfacing
5. Jawline rejuvenation

What to expect before surgery?

1. Initially, you will make an appointment and talk to your cosmetic or plastic surgeon about a facelift.
2. Tell your past and current medical conditions, previous surgeries, complications, history of smoking or alcohol use.
3. Your surgeon will conduct a physical exam and ask you about your recent medical records.
4. Your surgeon will examine the shape, fat distribution and bone structure of your face, to suggest the best treatment options. They may take some close up photographs of your face.
5. Your surgeon will discuss the probable outcome of the facelift and any risks or complications that may arise during the procedure.

What to expect on the day of surgery?

1. Follow the instructions given by your surgeon. You’ll be given instructions on the medicines you need to stop taking before surgery and when to stop them.
2. You’ll have to wash your face and hair with an antiseptic or germicidal soap before the surgery starts.
3. Avoid drinking or eating anything at least 6 hours prior to the surgery.
4. Change your clothes before surgery.

What to expect during surgery?

Depending on your condition, either general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia will be administered to you by your surgeon. 

 

1. The incision will depend on the type of facelift you are getting. It can be as follows:

• Around your ears
• In the mouth
• Around the temples in your hairline
• Under your chin
• Lower scalp.

1. The whole procedure of a facelift generally takes 2 to 4 hours, but it might take longer if other cosmetic surgeries are also involved 
2. After completing the surgery, your surgeon will close the incision either with dissolvable stitches, stitches that'll be removed after a few days or skin glue.

1. After completing the procedure, your surgeon will take you to the observation room.
2. You may feel mild pain, swelling, and numbness around your face.
3. Your incisions will be covered with bandages to minimise swelling and bruising.
4. A small tube might be placed under the skin to drain the excess fluid and blood.
5. For a few days after surgery, rest with your head elevated.
6. Take medication recommended by your doctor.
7. Apply cool packs on the face in order to reduce swelling and ease the pain.
8. You may have bruises and swelling for a couple of weeks. However, it could take 2-3 months for your face to heal back to normal.
9. Your surgeon will recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for at least 2-3 weeks after surgery.

What to avoid? 

1. Using makeup or any cosmetic products. 
2. Smoking as it delays wound healing.
3. Excessive pressure around the incision.
4. Direct sun exposure after the surgery for 2-3 weeks.
5. Clothes are pulled over the head and wear those that fasten in the front.
6. Colouring or bleaching your hair for at least seven weeks after surgery.

First follow-up appointment

1. After the surgery, you will have several follow-up appointments with your surgeon.
2. On the next day of your surgery, your surgeon will likely remove the drainage tube placed to remove extra fluid.
3. After a week of surgery, your surgeon will remove the sutures and assess the wound.
4. Follow wound care instructions given by your surgeon.
5. Your surgeon will guide you on what kind of cosmetics you need to use and instructions on your dietary sources.

Seek medical advice immediately if you feel or experience any of the following symptoms:

1. Excessive bleeding that saturates your bandage
2. Pus discharge from the incision site
3. Severe pain
4. Hematoma formation
5. Prolonged swelling
6. Irregularities in skin colour
7. Wound healing issues
8. Shortness of breath

Consult your surgeon if you face these problems and explain them in detail. If you have any other questions, discuss them too.