Rhytidectomy (Facelift)
A great deal of the aging process relates to your facial tissues and what you do to care for them. There is no magical age for a face lift. The appropriate time to have a consultation is when you no longer like what the mirror tells you. This may be in your 30s or your 80s.
Rhytidectomy is a major operative procedure. Like all extensive surgeries, operative incisions and complicated stitching is required. Contrary to popular belief and despite some newspaper and magazine articles, face lifts are not as simple as having your hair set or a facial. Also, contrary to some non-medical reports, these procedures do not remove all the folds and eliminate all face wrinkles, regardless of the treatment applied. You must accept your surgeon's judgment and realize that he will only remove the skin that can be done safely and suitable for the particular contours of your face. The procedure can improve wrinkled skin, but skin type and patient age are important factors in the final result.
Are you a good candidate for Rhytidectomy?
This surgery can do more than improve your appearance. It can provide a tremendous boost to a person's self-esteem. While there is no "right" age, your doctor will evaluate the condition of your skin and may discuss alternate or additional treatments with you. Other procedures may also be performed including: eyelifts; forehead tucks; implants; partial chemical peel; laser resurfacing; Botox; lip enhancement; chin augmentation; nose reshaping or face liposuction.
It is important for all patients to have realistic expectations. People commonly ask, "How long will it last?" This is impossible to state, as there are many factors involved-the amount of skin removed; age and condition of the patient; skin type, as well as its condition and texture; amount of previous sun and wind exposure as well as healing ability. Skin aging continues after this operation. On rare occasions, a minor secondary procedure may be advisable. The operation does not stop the aging process.
There are risks in all surgical procedures
The risks of Rhytidectomy will be thoroughly discussed with you prior to the procedure. It will result in some scarring. We make every reasonable effort to make these scars as inconspicuous as possible.
BEFORE SURGERY
Smoking and surgeries do not mix. Patients are instructed not to smoke for two weeks before and two weeks after the procedure. Smoking can delay healing and cause complications. Prior to the operation, the patient is instructed to shampoo with Johnson's Baby Shampoo. This is done at home the night before and, again, at the surgical site on the morning of the operation..
You may be requested to not take some medicines. Do not take aspirin or aspirin-containing compounds for two weeks before or two weeks after surgeries. At the first sign of hives or rash, discontinue all medication and call your doctor immediately.
The procedure will be performed in our in-house state of the art outpatient facility under general or local anesthesia. You will need someone to drive you home following your procedure. Within the first week you may experience minimal discomfort, but most patients can and should resume normal activities. Be sure to follow your doctor's advice to ensure a satisfactory outcome.
AFTER SURGERY
Bandages are placed about the head and face for 24 hours. A scarf may be worn to cover stitches until they are removed. Keep bandages and incisions dry until sutures are removed. Ask your physician when you can bathe or shower.
Patients can expect some swelling and discoloration, common with all types of surgeries. This is most notable on the second and third days and diminishes in approximately 12 days. This also depends on your type of skin, age and healing ability.
You will be prescribed pain medication. Take all medication exactly as ordered. The patient is encouraged to report any significant pain not readily relieved with pain pills or if minor bleeding, redness or other drainage is noted around the incisions. It is not uncommon to feel some postoperative depression after major surgeries.
Make-up may be applied up to the edge of the surgical scars approximately seven to 14 days following the procedure. No hair coloring or stripping should be performed until your physician gives permission. Other coiffure procedures may be carried out after approximately two weeks. Do not allow anyone to pull on your hair or roughly massage the scalp. A hair dryer, if used, should be set at medium to cool heat. This is important if any numbness, especially around the ears or temples, is noted. Do not wear earrings until sensation has returned to your earlobes.
Social activities may be temporarily limited. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for four to six weeks. Your physician may ask you to remain within traveling distance of the doctor's office for approximately two weeks.
Post-surgical questions should be directed to your doctors. It is unwise for you to accept advice from individuals unfamiliar with your specific operation. Call your physician if any medical problems arise.
THE NEW YOU
Remember that healing is a gradual process and it may be several weeks before you will begin to see the new you. After the healing period is complete, you should look younger, and have improved your self-confidence.
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