Facelift
Allentown, PA
 When you look in the mirror, do you find yourself poking your skin, pulling it upward? As you age, your skin naturally begins to lose its elasticity. When this happens, the skin begins to sag, which can cause lines and wrinkles to form. Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery can help to lift and tighten the skin on your face, restoring a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance with a facelift.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift, also called a rhytidectomy, is a procedure that is designed to reduce, and even eliminate, the appearance of lines and wrinkles, along with other signs of aging. The procedure tightens the skin of your face, taking years off of your appearance. The procedure is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available and is effective for both women as well as men.
Who Is a Candidate for a Facelift?
Ideal candidates for a facelift have loose skin on the face and neck. The procedure is designed to lift and tighten, while also removing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Candidates should have some elasticity remaining in their skin. This is important for skin being able to conform to its new contours following the lift. Having a strong bone structure is also important for providing your skin with the support it needs the following treatment. You should also be in good overall health. A facelift is a surgical procedure that requires a recovery period. Being in good overall health is essential for ensuring that you heal properly and without complications.
Types of Facelifts
There is more than one type of facelift available. Options include:| • |
Full facelift. This procedure is designed to address more dramatic signs of aging. It can treat creases below your eyes, sagging around the cheeks, jowls, and more.
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Mid facelift. This treatment addresses the areas under the eyes and around the cheeks.
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Mini facelift. Also called a weekend facelift, this treatment targets a smaller area, typically the lower cheeks, jaw, and neck. It is commonly used to treat the earliest signs of aging.
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Lower facelift. This treatment is designed to treat the lower third of the face. It is commonly used to treat jowls and nasolabial folds.
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Thread facelift. This procedure is made to be less invasive than traditional facelifts. Also sometimes called a lunchtime facelift, sutures are made under the skin to effectively lift the skin. Sutures are often absorbable, meaning that they disappear on their own. |
How Is a Facelift Performed?
Your exact procedure depends on the type of facelift being performed. Typically, a facelift involves a surgical procedure that is done under a local anesthetic. For more invasive treatments, general anesthesia may be recommended. Facelift surgery begins with incisions created just behind the hairline and behind the ears. The idea is to minimize the appearance of scars. After incisions are made, the skin is lifted. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the muscles are tightened. The skin is then repositioned, and the incisions are sutured closed.
Is There Downtime With a Facelift?
Because a facelift is a surgical procedure, there is some downtime associated with it. We will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the surgical sites as well as how to deal with common issues such as pain and swelling. It can take several weeks for all swelling and bruising to disappear, and for optimal results to show. If you are looking for a shorter downtime, you may be a candidate for skin resurfacing with CO2 laser.
The Benefits of a Facelift
There are several benefits associated with a facelift, including:| • |
The elimination of loose, sagging skin.
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Improving the contour of your face.
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Removing years from your facial appearance. |
If your confidence has been affected by loose, sagging facial skin, a facelift may be the solution for you. For more information, and to schedule your consultation, call Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at (610) 435-6161 today. |
