Lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin might make you consider a facelift. This procedure, also called a rhytidectomy, lifts and tightens for a more youthful appearance. People often worry that a surgical procedure like a facelift will be painful. Fortunately, what you have imagined is probably much worse than the reality.
What is a Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?
Collagen loss, sun damage, and other factors can lead to many signs of aging. A rhytidectomy or facelift corrects these signs of aging to restore your more lifted, youthful look. A facelift is a surgical procedure that addresses the skin and underlying structures for a refreshed, natural appearance. A facelift is the most effective way to correct significant sagging, wrinkles, and the appearance of jowls.
How is a Facelift Done?
Dr. Stein is a facelift expert and performs over 100 each year. Facelift surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure and usually takes a few hours. Dr. Stein uses his surgical skill and experience to tighten the skin and sculpt the underlying structures. He hides your incisions within the hairline or around the ear so they will be well-disguised when healed. His advanced surgical techniques minimize swelling and post-surgical discomfort.
How Painful is a Facelift?
Many people assume that a surgical procedure must be painful. Fortunately, a facelift only uses a few small incisions and does not disturb the deep tissues of your face. As a result, facelift recovery is much less painful than most people expect.
You can expect to feel sore and uncomfortable after surgery. Dr. Stein will prescribe pain medication, which most people only need for a few days. You may feel fatigued during the first week as your body dedicates resources to healing. You can resume light activities by the end of the first week, and most people can return to work within two weeks. You can expect swelling to last several weeks, although it will become less and less noticeable.
Can I Have Other Procedures With a Facelift?
A facelift combines well with many other procedures. Having several procedures at the same time can save you money and recovery time over having each on its own. A neck lift is often combined with a facelift to enhance the shape and contour of the neck, chin, and jawline. People also choose to have a brow lift, eyelid lift, or laser skin resurfacing.
What is the Best Age for a Facelift?
We all age at a different pace, so the best age for a facelift varies. Factors such as genetics, sun exposure, and skincare history can affect how soon signs of aging appear and how fast they develop. Most people have a facelift between their late forties and sixties. However, younger or older people can still benefit from this procedure if they meet the criteria, and a facelift is the best solution for their concerns.
Take the Next Step
Are you interested in a facelift? If you would like to schedule an in-person consultation, please fill out the form on this page or call (919) 261-7099, and one of our knowledgeable medical staff members at Stein Plastic Surgery will reach out to you promptly.
Stein Plastic Surgery is located in the Raleigh, Durham, and Southeast NC areas serving patients.