Click here to view our facelift before and after gallery.
A facelift is one of the most common plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures available, designed to treat wrinkles and skin laxity of the face for a younger, more refreshed appearance. As we age, the effects of time, gravity, sun exposure and stress inevitably take their toll on our faces, producing wrinkles, folds, fat deposits and loose skin.
Patients unhappy with the changing appearance of their face may seek relief through a facelift. This time-tested procedure targets the mid- to lower face, including the cheeks, mouth, jawline, chin and neck. Ideal candidates are usually those in their 40s, 50s or 60s looking to reverse the early signs of aging in the face, are generally healthy and have realistic expectations for surgery.
Facelift Procedure
During the facelift procedure, an incision is made around the ear, sometimes extending into the scalp. There are several different techniques that may be used depending on each patient’s facial structure and desired goals, but most include sculpting, lifting and repositioning the underlying fat, muscle and deep tissues, while also trimming and redraping the skin for dramatic yet natural-looking results.
In most cases, a facelift is performed under local anesthesia and IV sedation. The entire procedure usually takes about two hours to perform at our state-certified surgical facility in Lynnwood, WA.
Recovery from a facelift
After a facelift, patients may experience mild discomfort, bruising, swelling and drainage for a few days. You can wash your hair after two days and can likely return to work within a week. It is recommended that patients avoid strenuous activity for four to six weeks after surgery until swelling has completely subsided.
The results of the facelift will be immediately noticeable and will continue to improve for up to three months, as swelling and other side effects begin to fade. While results are not permanent and do not make patients immune to the effects of aging, you will continue to look younger than if you had never undergone any treatment.
To learn more about the benefits of a facelift, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wortham.