At-home products and in-office treatments can keep loose skin and other signs of aging under control, but the loss of collagen and the effects of gravity eventually lead to lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. A facelift addresses these concerns by tightening loose skin, smoothing wrinkles, and restoring a refreshed, more youthful appearance.
What is a Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?
If signs of aging in the mid-face area have started to bother you, a facelift or rhytidectomy offers an effective solution. This procedure lifts and tightens the skin and underlying structures. It not only smooths wrinkles but restores definition and contour to your features. Dr. Farole performs this customized procedure using different techniques based on your needs.
How is a Facelift Performed?
A rhytidectomy is performed under general anesthesia and can take three to four hours. Incisions are typically made in the folds of skin around the ears and used to lift and tighten the skin, muscles, and ligaments to ensure your features look naturally rejuvenated. Fat pads can be repositioned to remove volume from places you do not want it and restore it to where it belongs.
Another version of the facelift called a mini facelift, may be more suitable for those with minor skin laxity and other signs of aging who do not need a full facelift to see their desired results.
How Long is Facelift Recovery?
Since each facelift is unique, recovery times can vary. You can expect some soreness, bruising, and swelling after the procedure. These effects will improve within the first week, and some people may feel comfortable returning to work after this time. Dr. Farole and his team will provide you with specific instructions based on the details of your procedure.
You can start using makeup to cover remaining bruising or other issues after two weeks. Most people have returned to work within three weeks, at which point most of the swelling has resolved. Your timeline for returning to your usual activities depends on how comfortable you are with any remaining swelling.
Most people can resume all their usual activities within about six weeks. While you can start to appreciate your facelift results after the first few weeks, residual swelling can last for several months. Your results will continue to evolve and improve for up to a year after your rhytidectomy.
Can I Have Other Procedures With a Facelift?
Many people choose to have other procedures with a facelift to achieve maximum results. Non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments can increase collagen production and address pigmentation issues. Dr. Farole commonly combines a facelift and neck lift to address the middle and lower face, jawline, and loose neck skin. Other procedures performed with a facelift include a brow lift to restore the upper part of the face or an eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) to restore more youthful eyes.
Take the Next Step
Are you interested in learning more about recovery after a facelift? Schedule a consultation at Dr. Farole’s Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center in Bala Cynwyd, PA by giving us a call at (610) 890-6948 today.
