A facelift is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. Also referred to as a rhytidectomy, this procedure is extremely popular with both women and men. Facelifts create tighter skin and a more youthful appearance. People in their 40s to 70s tend to request facelifts the most in order to reduce the amount and severity of wrinkles and fine lines that come as a natural sign of aging.
A facelift is exactly as it sounds, but it also often involves smoothing out the skin of the neck as well. Typically, good candidates for this procedure are generally in good health and should not smoke. Current medications and health history will also be evaluated during the consultation, where it will be determined if a facelift is right for you.
At the start of the procedure, the surgeon will typically administer a local anesthesia to ensure only minor discomfort and no pain during the procedure. Once the surgery begins, small incisions will be made in the hairline or behind the ears to begin working on the muscles and fat under the face. Excess fat is removed and the muscles and tissue will be restructured to create smoother, tighter facial contours that are younger looking.
Some swelling and bruising are common after surgery, but these will subside in a matter of weeks. In some cases, additional procedures can also be performed to complement a facelift, which can be discussed during your consultation. If the post-operative instructions and advice are followed, facelifts do not typically carry major complications or infection.
While a facelift can help reverse the signs of aging over the long term, it cannot permanently prevent the natural aging process. Other major life changes such as significant weight fluctuations can potentially have an impact on your facelift results.
If you have excess skin in the face, jowls or neck, a facelift may be right for you. By removing excess skin and restructuring the tissues of the face, a facelift procedure can make you feel better about the way you look as well as increase your self-confidence.
At Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Atlanta, we can help men and women regain a more youthful appearance through facelift procedures. We work with each patient individually to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for his or her needs. Our medical team, led by Dr. Stanley Okoro, will work with you to determine the best way to reach your aesthetic goals. Contact Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery today to schedule your consultation.