What Is a Facelift?
A facelift, medically known as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that aims to reduce signs of aging in the lower two-thirds of the face and neck. The surgery involves removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissues, and redraping the skin on the face and neck to create a more youthful appearance. It can address issues such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and jowls, helping to rejuvenate facial features.
A facelift is often performed as a standalone procedure, but it can also be paired with eyelid surgery, brow lift surgery, or a neck lift for more comprehensive facial and neck rejuvenation.
What Are the Benefits of Facelift Surgery?
Facelift surgery can offer numerous benefits for qualified patients, including:
- Improvement in Signs of Aging: A facelift can diminish wrinkles, sagging skin, and deep creases.
- Tighter Skin: The procedure can help firm and tighten the skin for enhanced facial contours.
- Improved Jawline Definition: Facelift surgery can reduce jowls and enhance jawline definition.
- Long-lasting Results: While facelift surgery cannot stop the effects of gravity or the natural aging process, it can help patients look and feel more youthful for years to come
- Boosted Self-Confidence: Facelift patients often report feeling more confident about their appearance and experiencing improved self-esteem.
What Is Involved in the Facelift Procedure?
Facelift surgery typically involves several steps, each tailored to the individual’s anatomy and aesthetic goals. First, anesthesia is administered for the patient’s comfort during the surgery.
Dr. Hinojosa then makes incisions based on the agreed-upon treatment plan—usually, incisions are carefully concealed around the hairline, extending from the temples, continuing around the ear, and ending at the lower scalp. This allows the skin to be lifted, excess skin removed, and the underlying tissues tightened. In some cases, a second incision under the chin may be necessary to further improve neck contours.
Once the underlying tissues and structures of the face have been addressed, the skin is redraped over the newly adjusted contours, and any excess skin is trimmed away. The incisions are then closed with extraordinarily fine sutures to minimize scarring.
Recovery times vary; however, most patients can expect to return to normal activities within two to three weeks. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common initially, but most patients report that these symptoms can be well-managed with rest and pain medication.
How Much Does a Facelift Cost?
Dr. Hinojosa customizes each procedure, the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the treatment plan. Other factors, including anesthesia fees, facility fees, and the cost of any additional procedures, can also influence the final price. Following your consultation with Dr. Hinojosa, our team can provide a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs. We can also help you review plastic surgery financing options, as needed.
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Interested in learning more about facelift surgery? Contact our office today.