Facelift

What is a Facelift?

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts, is a procedure aimed to improve various signs of aging, which result from many factors such as stress, gravity, and hereditary aspects. A facelift corrects sagging or loose skin in the lower half of the face, deep creases along the corners of the mouth and lower eyelids, and loose skin or fatty areas under the chin and jaw.

Am I a good candidate for facelift surgery?

Generally, good candidates for a facelift are those who suffer from excess skin or sagging on the lower face and neck, possess quality skin elasticity, and have strong bone structure. Healthy men and women who are non-smokers and have realistic expectations for the outcome of their surgery can expect to see optimal results.

What are my options for a facelift?

There are multiple methods to a facelift, including the traditional facelift, the limited incision facelift, and a neck lift. A traditional facelift involves an incision from the hairline at the temples to the lower scalp. An additional incision under the chin may be required to tighten loose skin on the neck. A limited incision facelift calls for shorter incisions at the temples, which may extend under the lower eyelids or upper lip. Lastly, a neck lift involves incisions starting in front of the earlobe and extending behind the ear to the lower scalp. Dr. Hall will advise you in which type of facelift is right for you, based on the degree of change you would like to see.

Facelift surgery can be performed under a local anesthetic or general anesthesia. When local anesthetic is used, the patient is awake but does not feel any pain, while general anesthesia causes the patient to “sleep” during the surgical procedure. The outcome of facelift surgery is the same, despite which option patients choose.

What should I expect during recovery?

Downtime associated with a facelift varies on the type of facelift performed, though most patients take two weeks to heal. Patients will experience bruising and swelling around the ears, and bandages are wrapped around the incision sites to minimize swelling. Most patients feel minimal discomfort during recovery, though a dull ache behind the ears may occur. Medication is provided for a comfortable recovery.

It is advised that patients refrain from strenuous activities for a minimum of three weeks after surgery, and athletic activities for six weeks.  While recovering, it is important to keep the head elevated while sleeping to ensure desired results.

“Dr. Hall and all of his staff are very welcoming and supportive. In addition, I am extremely pleased with the results of my procedure. I have already referred a friend to Dr. Hall!”

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