Face Lift
For a younger you

As the aging process weakens the skin and muscles of the face, sagging occurs. Our face is a reflection of who we are, but often, the face in the mirror does not reflect how we feel inside. Many people have undergone face lifts to take as much as ten years off their age!

What is a Face Lift?
A face lift is a surgical procedure which removes excess skin and gently pulls the skin of the lower portion of your face. This process lessens and tightens the face, creating a more youthful appearance.

What Can a Face Lift Do For Me?
* If you have jowls, a face lift is the best way to lift and eliminate them.
* Sagging cheeks can be improved with a face lift.
* Deep lines from the nose to the mouth can be reduced by a face lift.
* The results of a face lift can last as long as 15 years.
* A face lift will not alter your forehead or eye area.
* Face lifts do not eliminate fine wrinkles.
* Scarring is minimal and mostly hidden, as the incisions are made around the ear to the hairline and/or under the chin.

What Does a Face Lift Feel Like?
* You will be given a local anesthetic and a sedative so that you will be asleep during the procedure, but without the after effects of a general anesthetic.
* Depending upon the extent of your face lift, it may be performed in the doctor's office or at a hospital. You may be allowed to go home the same day, or you may be required to spend one night in a hospital.
* The surgery usually takes two to four hours.
* Tubes are generally placed near the ear for the drainage of excess fluids, and these may need to remain there for 24 hours.

What Can I Expect After the Procedure?
* Most patients experience some post-operative pain for a few days, which can be relieved by medication.
* You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure, and it is advisable to have someone who can help you with activities of daily living for a few days.
* Swelling and bruising usually lasts for about two weeks. Elevation of the head, cold compresses, and ice packs will relieve discomfort and swollen areas.
* You may experience some numbness or tightness of certain parts of the face for a few weeks or months after the surgery.
* The doctor will probably advise a liquid diet for the first couple of days, as chewing can cause additional swelling.
* Dressings will be applied and will need to be changed every couple of days to prevent infection.
* Stitches are removed within ten days of the procedure.
* You should be able to return to work within two weeks.
* You will be able to wear make-up within a week or two.
* The final outcome of your face lift will not be visible for anywhere from one to four months following the procedure.
* You should refrain from showering for two days after surgery.
* Strenuous activity may be resumed about three weeks after surgery.
* Your skin may be more vulnerable to sun damage for a period of six months, and you should protect it accordingly.
* Do not use hair dye for about two months after your face lift.
* Refrain from smoking for two weeks after surgery, as the smoke can impair the healing process.
* Plenty of sleep promotes healing.

What are the Risks of Face Lifts?
Face lifts have been performed successfully for many years. However, all surgeries carry the risk of infection or bleeding. In extreme and rare cases, nerve damage can result in paralysis of portions of the face.