What is a Face Lift?
A MACS (minimal access cranial suspension) Lift is a type of facelift surgery that uses shorter cuts, compared to a traditional facelift, made in the temple and in front of the ears.
Fibrous tissues under the skin are tightened with permanent stitches that are fixed to tissue close to the cheekbone or the fibrous connective tissue under the skin. MACS usually have a shorter recovery time than traditional facelifts.
A facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the face by lifting and tightening the lax tissues and sagging skin in the lower two-thirds of the face and neck, under the chin along the jawline, and mild laxity on the neck and decollete. This transformative surgery not only restores youthful facial contours but also enhances overall appearance by reducing the signs of aging. The result is a more vibrant, graceful, and refreshed look.
How Does a Face Lift Work?
A deep plane facelift involves lifting the deeper layers of facial tissue, specifically beneath the submuscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), which connects the face and neck muscles to the skin. During the procedure, ligaments are released, and the SMAS is repositioned to tighten the jowls and neck. Any excess skin and fat are removed to achieve a more youthful and contoured appearance.
Benefits of a Face Lift
A facelift can enhance the definition of your neck and jawline, offering a more youthful and revitalized appearance. Over time, our facial skin loses its elasticity, leading to sagging and wrinkles. This procedure effectively lifts the skin, smooths out deep creases, eliminates jowls, and reduces the appearance of a double chin. By re-contouring your jawline and neck, a facelift provides long-lasting youthful skin and a natural more rejuvenated look.
Who Is A Good Candidate For A Face Lift?
Check out this video as I answer the #1 question I receive from anyone looking to have this procedure done! Listen as I discuss who is a good candidate for a face lift.
How Long Does A Face Lift Last?
If you’re going to invest the time and money on a face lift, it’s best to know how long it will last. The effects of a face lift last for about 7-10 years. The best results are achieved in people who maintain a stable body weight, have skin with good levels of elasticity and a strong bone structure. In older people or people who spend a lot of time in the sun, the effects tend to have a shorter span. Check out this video below to learn more.
What Are The Potential Risks Associated With Face Lifts?
If you’re considering a face lift, watch this short clip to watch Dr. Van Ye discuss some of the potential risks associated with a face lift.
What Should I Expect Right After My Face Lift?
- At the end of a facelift operation, your face is tightly wrapped in bandages. These may run under your chin, around your ears, and/or over your head. They are usually taken off after about one or two days.
- You may have drain tubes as well.
- Pain medication may be used to help relieve any discomfort.
- Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and bruising.
- Patients should always remember to keep their head elevated for a couple of days to reduce swelling.
- Avoid bending or straining and avoid saunas and massage for at least 2 weeks.
- Avoid the sun for a few weeks.
- Vigorous activity should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
- Most people return to work once the bruising and swelling have gone down.
Before, During, and After
What to Expect Before a Face Lift
Before undergoing a facelift, you will have a pre-operative consultation with a surgical nurse, necessary lab tests, and a medical evaluation. It’s important to quit smoking and cease taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements, as these can lead to bleeding and bruising. Specific instructions will be provided to guide you through the process.
What to Expect During a Face Lift
Before your facelift surgery, you’ll receive a general anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free. The surgeon will make incisions starting from your temples, curving around your ears, and ending at the hairline behind them. These incisions are carefully placed to blend with natural contours, making them easier to conceal.
Fat may be reshaped or redistributed from your face, jowls, and neck. They will then lift the deeper tissues and muscles, pulling the skin over the newly contoured areas and removing excess skin. The incisions will be closed with sutures for a neat finish. An additional incision under the neck may be needed to enhance the neck area.
What to Expect After a Face Lift
Most patients can return to work and their usual daily activities roughly two weeks after facelift surgery. However, it may take up to three months for your face to regain its normal texture, sensitivity, and suppleness. As the swelling and bruising subside, you’ll begin to see the full results of the procedure. Not only will you look more youthful and refreshed, but you’ll also likely experience a significant boost in self-confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How should one prepare for Face Lift surgery?
To prepare for a facelift, you will start by undergoing lab tests or a medical evaluation. You might also need to adjust your current medications and apply specific skincare products to prepare your skin for the procedure. It’s also advisable to stop smoking and avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements 1-2 weeks before surgery, as these can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
What other procedures can be combined with a facelift for optimal results?
Other procedures that can complement a facelift include brow lifts and eyelid surgeries, to refresh the appearance of aging eyes. While facelifts are highly effective at reducing signs of aging on the lower two–thirds of the face, they can’t address issues like drooping eyelids; combining a facelift with eyelid surgery or a brow lift can help achieve more enhanced results.
Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with Face Lift?
Dr. Van Ye is highly experienced in facelift procedures and committed to delivering youthful and symmetrical results through an extremely safe surgical process. Although facelifts are generally very safe, some rare risks are associated with the procedure. These include anesthesia complications, bleeding, deep vein thrombosis, facial nerve injury leading to weakness, and poor wound healing. However, with Dr. Van Ye’s expertise and careful attention during surgery and recovery, these risks are minimized to ensure your safety and an optimal outcome on your path to enhanced beauty.
WIll a Face Lift leave a visable scar?
A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon ensures that scars are nearly invisible. They strategically place incisions in hidden areas, such as behind the ears and within the hairline, to minimize scar visibility after a facelift.
Is there any discomfort during or after Face Lift treatment?
To ensure your comfort during the surgical procedure, medications will be administered. Options include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia, with Dr. Van Ye recommending the best choice for you. After a facelift, pain medication is available to help alleviate any discomfort. Additionally, applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and bruising.