Rhytidectomy–also knowns as a facelift–is a procedure often used at Winter Park Plastic Surgery to reduce signs of aging. This procedure tightens the skin to give it a more youthful appearance but does not affect the quality of the skin. Instead, it pulls back and removes the excess skin to alleviate sagging and drooping.
Facelifts are a proven technique to reduce signs of aging, and while there is not a required age to get a facelift, there is a range of ages where a facelift would be most effective.
When Should I Get a Facelift?
You may notice signs of aging as early as your 20s with crow’s feet and loosening of skin; however, skincare routines and treatments may alleviate symptoms of aging for the first years after signs of aging begin to appear.
The mid to late 40s is typically the time to undergo a facelift for the best results. Facelifts are also highly effective for men and women in their 50s and 60s. Alongside a neck lift and skin rejuvenation treatments, a facelift may take up to 10 years off your face with longer-lasting effects.
Depending on your individual needs, you may receive a facelift earlier or later than your 40s. There is no window of opportunity with a facelift, only what your goals are. Regardless of age, plan around any significant events to allow ample recovery time.
What to Expect with a Facelift
Facelifts are a major surgery to improve the appearance of the face. While it is impossible to remove all underlying folds or reduce all wrinkles, a facelift removes prominent folds or creases of the skin, giving a fresher and youthful appearance.
The surgery is performed in-office at Winter Park’s surgical center with a recommended overnight stay for your comfort, safety, and convenience. While you are under general anesthesia, Dr. Greenberg makes an inconspicuous incision along the hairline and removes the excess tissue. After removing the excess skin, Dr. Greenberg adjusts the tissue to your natural facial contours.
After the surgery, you will be given an elastic support garment and instructions on sleeping, bathing, and wound care. Dr. Greenberg suggests you have someone help you in the first 48 hours after your surgery. You should be able to return to full employment and social activities after a week or so.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?
Anyone who has noticed a loss of skin laxity and has sagging skin around the neck, jawline, and midfacial region is a good candidate for a facelift. Dr. Greenberg also recommends that you do not smoke and are in good health before the treatment.
Realistic expectations also are recommended. Facelifts remove the excess skin and fat to tighten the face’s appearance but do not change the face’s natural contours nor improve tissue quality.
Take the Next Step
Want to learn more about what you can expect from facelift? Schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Scott A. Greenberg at Winter Park Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in Winter Park, FL (serving the Central Florida area). (407) 644-3137
