What is a Facelift?
A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the visible signs of aging. It involves tightening the muscles of the lower face and neck, as well as removing excess skin, to restore a more youthful appearance. This procedure is often combined with other cosmetic enhancements, such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), forehead lift, chin augmentation, liposuction, and/or rhinoplasty (nose surgery), to achieve a harmonious and rejuvenated appearance. The timing of a facelift is based on individual needs rather than age alone.
Facelift techniques vary in terms of incision type, invasiveness, and treatment area. Here’s a brief overview:
- Weekend Facelift: A minimally invasive option for younger patients with mild jowling, focusing on the lower face without addressing the neck. Recovery typically takes about five days.
- Mini Facelift (S-Lift): This approach is less invasive than a full facelift. It targets moderate signs of aging with a shorter incision and is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity.
- Traditional (SMAS) Facelift: This technique involves a longer incision extending from the hairline, around the ear, and down the neck. It addresses more advanced signs of aging by tightening deeper tissues and removing excess skin.
- Deep Plane Facelift: This technique is ideal for more pronounced nasolabial folds. It involves separating cheek fat and muscles from their bone attachments. This procedure is more intensive and carries a higher risk of nerve damage, but it may offer more precise results for certain aging concerns.