Facelift / Neck Lift (Rhytidectomy)

For Patients in Orlando and Winter Park, Florida

The process of aging is one that occurs gradually over time. The effects of gravity, sun exposure and normal physiologic changes in the quality of the skin can cause changes that may be seen in people’s faces. Folds and wrinkles may develop between the mouth and nose, excess skin and fat may be seen in the jaw line (jowls) and the skin and fat of the neck may become loose and sag. These outward signs of aging may appear while one still feels young and can interfere with a healthy productive life. Rhytidectomy (facelift) is a procedure designed to remove the major folds or wrinkles of the skin of the face and neck and create a fresher, younger more rested appearance. Contrary to articles in popular magazines and newspapers, this is not a simple procedure to be taken lightly. A facelift should be considered major surgery and is designed to safely produce the maximum improvement in the appearance of the face by repositioning fat and tightening sagging skin. The object of a facelift procedure is a natural rejuvenation of your features rather than a tight distortion. It is impossible to remove all underlying folds or eliminate all underlying wrinkles regardless of the type of treatments.

Facelift / Neck Lift Consultation
At the initial facelift consultation, your particular areas of concern, goals and expectations of the facelift procedure will be discussed in detail. Individual decisions as to the appropriate techniques including “short scar” techniques and possible adjunctive procedures (blepharoplasty, forehead lift, laser skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion, or chemical peel) will be discussed based on the desired goals of the procedure. A suitable pre-operative and post-operative skin care program may also be recommended to enhance the effect of the facelift procedure.

Facelift / Neck Lift Procedure
This facelift / neck lift procedure is performed in our accredited in-office surgical facility. An overnight stay is recommended for your comfort, safety and convalescence. This operation is usually performed under general anesthesia. The operation is designed to produce a major improvement and thus requires extensive incisions but these are placed inconspicuously. The tissues are then pulled upward and back and the excess skin removed. The smooth, tightened remaining skin is then sutured and trimmed to fit the pattern of the incisions.

After Your Facelift / Neck Lift Surgery
A bulky dressing may be used after facelift surgery, which is removed by Dr. Greenberg the next morning. An elastic support garment is then provided which is to be worn for the next several days. A certain amount of swelling, discoloration and tightness of the facial skin is normal for about 10 to 14 days after facelift surgery but major discomfort is unusual. Specific instructions on sleeping, bathing and wound care will be given pre-operatively. Generally, you should be able to return to full employment and resume social activity after 2 weeks.

Frequently Asked Facelift Questions

To learn more about facelift or neck lift surgery in Orlando and Winter Park, Florida or to schedule your initial facelift consultation, please call or e-mail board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Greenberg today.