Frequently Asked Questions - Facelift

What is a facelift?

Technically known as rhytidectomy, a facelift is a surgical procedure that smoothes loose skin on the face and neck, tightens underlying tissues and muscles, and removes excess fat. The term “facelift” used to refer only to a tightening of the facial skin to create a more lifted, youthful look. As more procedures have been developed, the term has come to be used to mean a neck lift, or a mid-facelift, or both together. It can also refer to a customized collection of procedures. For example, one person might choose to have a brow lift, eyelid surgery and a cheek lift. Another person might have a neck lift, cheek lift and lip enhancement. In both cases, the term “facelift” might be used to refer to those combinations of procedures.

What are the benefits of a facelift procedure?

A facelift can help to minimize visible signs of aging and enhance self-confidence by making the patient look younger and fresher.

How long will my facelift last?

Facial rejuvenation procedures turn back the clock. You will start aging again from that point forward. If you take good care of your skin and avoid prolonged sun exposure and smoking your results will last much longer. Everyone ages at a different rate so some peoples facelifts last longer than others.

What can be done for a "double chin"?

In younger individuals with good skin tone, the fat in this area can be removed with gentle liposuction. The skin the redrapes naturally over the recontoured area, improving the shape of the neck and jaw line. When skin tone is poor, a full neck lift procedure may be needed. This entails removing fat, tightening the muscles under the skin, and removing excess skin.

Am I ready for a face-lift?

Skin and facial tissue that sag with aging can give you the appearance of being tired or angry or sad even when you are feeling happy and energetic. A facelift procedure primarily addresses sagging of the lower lid, cheek, and jaw line area. Laugh lines, marionette lines, and jowling are all addressed.

If your concern is less about jowling and neck and more about the cheekbone area, then you may be appropriate for a mid-facelift. This is a newer procedure that involves incisions in the hairline and in the mouth, which are not typically visible.

Will I look natural after my surgery?

I choose the techniques that I use to create a natural, non-surgical appearance. Every effort is made hide scars in areas covered by hair or in natural creases. With complete facial rejuvenation, you will appear rested, healthy and more youthful.

The idea is to look better, well rested, and younger not completely different. Dr. Zemmel’s goal is to give you a natural rejuvenated look without looking like you have had surgery.

Can I have other facial procedures at the same time?

Yes, in fact many face lift patients choose to have their face lift performed in conjunction with other facial cosmetic surgery procedures like eyelid surgery, neck surgery, or brow surgery.

During your initial consultation with Dr. Zemmel, you can discuss your appearance goals and determine if having more than one cosmetic surgery is the best approach to providing you with the results you want.

Are there significant risks associated with facelift surgery?

There is uncertainty and risk involved with any surgery. Although significant complications from facelifts are rare, risks may include nerve damage, infection, bleeding, and adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Smokers stand an increased risk for poor healing.

Am I a good candidate for a facelift?

The best candidate for a facelift is a person whose facial skin has started to sag but whose skin retains some elasticity. Additionally, a good candidate will have a strong, well-defined bone structure. It is important for patients to have a realistic expectation of their surgery and to understand the risks and benefits of a facelift.

Can I expect permanent results from a facelift?

The results will vary from person-to-person. However, most people can expect their results to last between five and ten years.

Is there a common technique for facelift procedures?

Techniques for facelifts vary depending on the surgeon. Generally, the surgeon begins by separating the skin from the underlying layers of muscle and fat. After removing excess fat, the surgeon usually proceeds to tighten the facial muscles and membranes. Then the surgeon pulls the skin back and cuts away the extra skin.

What is an SMAS Facelift?

SMAS stands for sub-muscular aponeurotic system, which is the medical term for the layers just under the skin, made mostly of fat and fibrous connective tissue. A SMAS facelift will in most cases give a better and longer-term result because it tightens the underlying tissues as well as the skin.

Will a facelift make me look unnatural?

This is strictly dependent on the surgeon. Dr. Zemmel’s philosophy is to “rejuvenate not distort” so you should get a very natural appearing result. Dr. Zemmel will discuss all the possibilities with you and together you can come up with a combination of procedures which will address your specific concerns.

Will a facelift leave scars?

Facelift scars are permanent; however, they are designed to be placed in inconspicuous places to make them minimally noticeable.

Will the facelift results be permanent?

They’ll be long-lasting but not permanent. But we’re all subject to the effects of aging, the sun’s rays, and the force of gravity. We all have a certain genetic pre-disposition; we might gain weight or lose it. All these factors make it impossible to predict exactly how long the facelift results will persist. That said, many people find that after several years they may desire additional improvement.

How long does a facelift take?

A facelift can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on which procedure(s) you’re having done.

Will there be a lot of pain with a facelift?

Most patients describe the pain as a tightness or soreness which is easily controlled with pain medication during the first week after surgery. Most patients are off prescription medication after 3 to 5 days.

Is a facelift performed under general anesthesia?

Not necessarily. Facelift are typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Sometimes, however, a surgeon may choose to use general anesthesia.

How long before I can resume normal activities after my facelift?

This will depend on the individual. Most people are able to return to work between 5 to 7 days after their surgery even though swelling and bruising may take up to three weeks to disappear. Doctors advise against returning to any strenuous activities for at least two weeks. Sun exposure should also be limited.