Cosmetic Procedures

Facelift / Mid Facelift

In a few years, the average baby boomer will be in their 60s. It’s hard to imagine. But one thing is for sure. Life will continue on with as much energy and dedication as it ever has. As more and more people find themselves growing older, they realize they don’t feel old, so why should they look it? This is especially true with the development of all the new, technological advances aimed at preserving youth.

Unfortunately, aging etches itself onto the face more quickly than any other part of the body. That seems unfair, since the face is the only part of your body you cannot hide. While it is unrealistic to look decades younger, a face lift can help maintain your appearance in the years to come and can even take a few years off.

Who Needs It

The best candidate for a face lift is someone who has sagging skin in their face. For best results, a candidate should have substantial bone structure and some skin elasticity. Prime candidates are usually in their 40s, 50s and 60s, although this is not always the case.

A mid-face lift reduces wrinkles around the eyes and mouth without treating the forehead and the neck. This procedure is a much less invasive procedure than a regular face lift and has a quicker recovery time.

Preparation

When considering a face lift, the first step is to consult with a plastic surgeon. He or she will be able to answer your questions and address your concerns regarding the procedure. They can also provide you with a realistic idea of the results based on the condition of your skin and bone structure. You may also want to also want to grow out short hair to conceal scars as they heal.

The Surgery

Just like fingerprints, each face is completely unique. Therefore, incisions and technique will vary with each patient in order to achieve the desired results. For a full face lift, incisions are made just above the hairline and stretch back down past the ears. With the latest advances, skin is tightened back into position without looking windblown. Rather, skin will appear fresher and younger. After about two weeks, swelling and bruising should be gone, and after about three weeks, you will probably feel comfortable enough to go out in public.

For a mid-face lift, tiny incisions are made endoscopically, around the eyes, hairline and mouth. An endoscope is a tube with a tiny camera on the end. The camera transmits images to a monitor and serves as the “eyes” of the doctor, so only small incisions in hidden areas are needed. The incisions tighten the skin in these areas, erasing most wrinkles. Scars are so subtle that no one will know you had the procedure unless you tell them. Recovery time for the mid-face lift is usually one week.

Results

The final look that results from having a face lift is a fresher version of yourself. While some people fear the results will look tight and windblown the reality is that a talented plastic surgeon will harvest results that look natural and soft—a better version of you. Most people are quite pleased with the results, as the procedure can erase several years from the face, and the effect can last for up to 10 years depending on the condition of the elasticity of the skin.