Facelift

A facelift, technically known as a rhytidectomy, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures designed to reverse signs of aging. Over time, gravity, sun exposure, and other external factors take their toll on our faces and necks. Facelift surgery can tighten muscles, remove fat and trim excess skin of the face. Patients can have a fresher, more youthful look with a facelift. To “grow old gracefully” now has new meaning!

A facelift improves the lower and middle areas of the face. The procedure can improve the following signs of aging in these areas:

The ideal candidate for a facelift (rhytidectomy) wants to correct one or more signs of aging in their face. In addition, candidates need to still have elasticity in their skin in order to undergo a facelift. Patients should not smoke, be in generally good health, and have realistic expectations as to what a facelift can accomplish. During your consultation, you will discuss your goals and Dr. Tarbet may offer alternative procedures or non-surgical treatment that can accomplish the results you desire.

Dr. Kristin J. Tarbet performs facelifts as an outpatient procedure while the patient is under local or general anesthesia. The procedure takes about 2 hours but can vary based on the patient. Dr. Tarbet will go over the surgical plan during your consultation. This will detail how she will perform the surgery as the approach differs based on the patient’s facial structure, the extent of areas that are going to be corrected, and where is best to place the incisions. Incisions are typically hidden in the hairline or along the natural contours of the face.

Dr. Tarbet spoke at the ASOPRS 49th Annual Fall Scientific Symposium about facelift surgery

After the facelift procedure, Dr. Tarbet will wrap your incisions in bandages and may place drainage tubes. The next day you can have the tubes removed and wash your hair. At your follow-up appointment, Dr. Tarbet will remove any stitches or surgical clips from the incisions. Patients often experience stiff muscles and diminished sensation in the face but this typically goes away within a few weeks. Scars, which are mostly hidden, become less red, raised, and lumpy within a few months.

While a facelift can reverse signs of aging it does not stop the aging process. Therefore, the results are not permanent. Some patients choose to undergo another facelift 5 to 10 years later. However, the effects of a facelift are permanent so your face will continue to look better than if you had not had a facelift.

Patients can experience some side effects after their facelift. Most side effects resolve themselves within 3 to 6 weeks but can include: