There are only so many creams, serums, and non-invasive cosmetic treatments one can undergo before the signs of age can’t be stopped. That’s why the gold standard of treating lines and wrinkles, jowls, and lax skin is the facelift. Dr. Adam Stein has made the facelift a cornerstone of his clinical practice and performs over 100 facelifts a year. Are you ready to reverse the clock by years?
How Does a Facelift Work?
Facelifts do more than tighten the skin. They address the underlying SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer of tissues and muscle, which are also subject to the gravitational shifts of age. This layer is what gives our face its shape and distinctive features. Dr. Stein’s expertise in facial aesthetics has given him intimate knowledge of the best way to remodel this layer for the most natural outcome of a facelift. Dr. Stein repositions the deeper tissues to tighten and smooth your neck, jawline, and lower face, and then tightens the overlying skin, thereby taking years or more off your appearance.
Facelifts are performed on an outpatient basis, and Dr. Stein keeps your incisions well hidden in your hairline or natural facial creases. His advanced techniques achieve superior results while also minimizing discomfort, recovery time, and visible scarring. Your facial tissues may need a few months to fully rest into their final position, but your youthful appearance will be apparent after just a couple weeks of recovery. Some facelifts may benefit from the addition of laser resurfacing or chemical peels to restore skin’s vibrancy.
Am I a Good Candidate?
The best candidates for facelifts are non-smoking men and women in their 40s-70s who are in general good health and have realistic expectations of the results. Some people older than 70s may even be good candidates. A comprehensive consultation at Stein Plastic Surgery is the best way to get started.
Three Tips for Facelift Recovery
Dr. Stein performs all patient facelifts on an outpatient basis with IV sedation. Patients are comfortable and asleep for the procedure, but avoid the risks associated with general anesthesia. This is easier on the body during recovery, as you don’t have to metabolize heavy anesthetics from your tissues. The first 48 hours are the most difficult in terms of pain, swelling, and discomfort, and patients may need a loved one to help out at first.
First few days: Rest upright and use ice packs.
When recuperating, elevating your position to keep your head higher than your heart. This improves circulation and helps with swelling. Ice packs also fight inflammation, suppress swelling, and constrict blood vessels. Numbing from cold compresses also helps with pain management. Keep as cool as you can by adjusting the room’s temperature.
First two weeks: Rest
It may sound obvious, but many patients struggle to slow down their busy life. You need the energy to heal, and taking it easy gives you the energy stores you need for healing. Slowing down can also reduce stress, which can slow the recovery process.
Eat well and mindfully. At first, soft foods are ideal to avoid excess chewing, which contributes to pain. Foods high in nutrients, particularly Vitamin C for collagen formation, will keep you energized and on the mend.
Choosing a double board-certified physician with Dr. Stein’s reputation ensures you’ll receive top-notch care with a better chance of achieving your aesthetic results. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Take the Next Step
Ready to learn more about facelifts? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Stein at Stein Plastic Surgery based in Raleigh, NC today! Simply fill out the form on this page or give us a call at (919) 261-7099.
*Individual results may vary.