Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Facelift surgery or Rhytidectomy is a cosmetic surgery procedure intended to give the patient a more youthful appearance by removing and tightening excess skin along the facial region. Many additional surgeries often get performed in conjuncture with a face lift including eyelid surgery, cheek implants and a brow lift. The appealing aspect of a face lift is that the incisions are made behind the ear in a way that makes them extremely inconspicuous. That is part of the reason why Rhytidectomy is quickly becoming one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the United States. Facelifts will help to eliminate skin folds in the neck and sagging tissue along the cheek bones. Facelifts are considered a major surgery which requires general anesthesia and it is recommended that they only be performed by a skilled plastic or cosmetic surgeon.

How a Facelift is Performed

A facelift is performed by making an incision behind and in front of the ear along the hairline of the patient. The skin is then separated from the face using a scalpel and any underlying tissue is sculpted and reshaped. Sometimes the excess fat may be redistributed throughout the facial area. In addition the deeper layers of the face and muscle tissues are also lifted and can be tightened with sutures. The remaining skin is re-draped over the face and excess skin is removed via the surgeon’s discretion. Finally all the remaining incisions are closed up using sutures or staples.

Types of Facelift Surgeries

There are two main types of face lifts, the Traditional Face Lift and the Limited Incision Face Lift. Both surgeries are intended to produce the same results, the difference being the size of the incision. The Traditional Face Lift requires a much larger incision which extends from the front of the ear up to the hairline, around the bottom of the ear and behind it. The Limited Incision Facelift leaves out the cuts behind the ear and in the hairline. The upside to the limited incision is that the surgery is less invasive and the scars are much smaller. When tightening large amounts of facial tissue; however, it is recommended the patient get the Traditional Face Lift.

Length of Procedure and Required Treatments

A facelift surgery will usually take anywhere from 2-4 hours depending upon the individual patient’s needs. The surgery is only necessary 1 time and results typically last quite awhile.

Recovering from Facelift (Rhytidectomy) Surgery

Rhytidectomy is a major plastic surgery procedure and significant healing time is required after the operation. The patient will be both swollen in the facial area and a significant amount of bruising will be present. These conditions will usually last for around 2 weeks. That is also the recommend time to take off before returning to work after a face lift. Sutures are typically removed within 5-7 days after surgery.

Risks of Facelift Surgery

A facelift performed by a board certified plastic surgeon is a relatively safe procedure; however, it is important to weigh the risks associated with a face lift even if they are rare. Some of the risks that are associated with facial surgery include but are not limited to unfavorable scarring, infection, disproportionate facial features and swelling.

Cost of a Facelift

The cost of a facelift will vary greatly depending upon many factors including the geographic location of the procedure, the level of the procedure and the specific surgeon performing the operation. On average, prices in the United States range anywhere from $5,000-$20,000. Contact your local plastic surgeon for a more precise rate.

Is a Facelift Right for You?

There are many factors to take into consideration before getting a facelift. The first and most important is whether or not you can afford both the time off work and the cost of getting the operation. Facelifts are major surgeries and the recovery time is both long and arduous. Make sure you are capable of handling the recovery. Ideal candidates for facial surgery are people with general good health and non-smokers.

How to Find Board Certified Facelift Surgeons Near You

Choosing the right face lift surgeon can be a daunting task. Surgeons vary greatly in skill, experience and price. It is imperative that you speak with more than 1 surgeon before having a surgery performed on you. Don’t just shop for the best price, although a well priced surgery is a bonus, it is important that you feel comfortable with the surgeon you choose and confident that they will do the job right. Visit our plastic surgeon directory for 5 Star Surgeon Network Approval Rated™ Surgeons near You.