How Does a Facelift Work?

Your skin gradually loses collagen as part of the aging process. This collagen loss can result in lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, and sagging jowls. A facelift restores a youthful appearance by lifting the skin and underlying structures. This procedure makes an excellent choice for those bothered by significant signs of aging. 

What is a Facelift or Rhytidectomy?

While mild skin laxity can be treated by non-surgical methods, sagging skin or deep wrinkles require surgical treatment. A facelift reverses the effects of time by restoring your skin, fat, and muscle to a youthful position. This procedure rejuvenates the entire mid and lower face and redefines sagging jowls. Dr. Greenberg often combines a facelift and neck lift for maximum anti-aging results. 

How Does a Facelift Work?

Dr. Greenberg performs facelifts in Winter Park Plastic Surgery’s accredited surgical facility. During the procedure, he will make several incisions around the ears and hairline, then reposition facial fat and lift sagging skin. The placement of the incisions ensures they will be unnoticeable. Dr. Greenberg performs rhytidectomy under general anesthesia, which can take a few hours. Afterward, most people spend the night to begin their recovery.  

What Can a Facelift Treat? 

Rhytidectomy is a popular procedure because it can treat a wide range of facial concerns in one surgery. A facelift can correct these and many other issues:

• Nasolabial folds
• Marionette lines
• Loss of mid-face volume
• Sagging jowls
• Loose skin
• Loss of definition
• Lines and wrinkles

If you have concerns not addressed by a facelift, you can combine several procedures to achieve your desired results. Rhytidectomy combines well with a neck lift, eyebrow or eyelid lift, and rhinoplasty. Discuss all your concerns with Dr. Greenberg so he can recommend the best treatment plan for your needs. 

What is Recovery Like After a Facelift?

You will usually spend the night after your procedure so the Winter Park Plastic Surgery team can monitor and keep you comfortable. You can expect bruising, swelling, and discomfort that improve steadily over the first few days. People with minimally active jobs can return within one to two weeks. Dr. Greenberg will provide guidelines on when you can resume other activities. 

How Long Do Facelift Results Last?

While facelift results can last many years, you will eventually notice signs of aging again. Most people remain happy with their results for at least ten to fifteen years. You may prefer to have another procedure at that time. Others will decide they do not need any further corrections. You will have less loose skin as you age than without a facelift. 

Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

Good candidates for a facelift want to address lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Candidates should not have any health problems that would make surgery unsafe. There is no “right” age to have a facelift. Dr. Greenberg finds that individuals in their mid to late 40s see the best facelift results. However, individuals in their 50s, 60s, and even later can still enjoy a more youthful appearance. 

Take the Next Step

If you’d like to learn more about facelifts, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Scott A. Greenberg and his team at Winter Park Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in Winter Park, FL (serving the Central Florida area). (407) 644-3137

*Individual results may vary