What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical technique designed to restore a more youthful contour to the face and neck by removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissues, and repositioning the skin in a smoother fashion. It primarily addresses aging concerns in the mid to lower face and neck. Over the years, the procedure has been refined to offer more natural results with minimized scarring.

Facelift Real Results

Types of 360 Facelifts:

There are different facelift techniques and the most suitable technique is determined based on the individual’s specific concerns, desired outcomes, and their anatomical structure.

Full Facelift:

A full facelift addresses advanced aging around the mid-face, neck, and lower face. Incisions typically start at the temples within the hairline, circle the ear, and end in the lower scalp. This technique offers pronounced and enduring results for those with significant aging signs.

Mini Facelift:

Suited for early aging signs, the mini facelift focuses on the neck and jawline. Incisions are shorter, often beginning at the temples and wrapping around the ear. This method boasts a quicker recovery and minimal scarring compared to its traditional counterpart.

Neck Lift (Submentoplasty):

Specifically designed for the neck area, this lift targets sagging, band lines, or fatty accumulations. Incisions usually start in front of the earlobe, progress behind the ear, and finish in the posterior scalp. It effectively counters the “turkey neck” appearance.

SMAS Lift (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System):

Targeting the deeper tissue beneath the skin, the SMAS lift rejuvenates the mid-face, reducing sagging cheeks and prominent nasolabial folds. While its incision pattern mirrors the traditional facelift, it dives deeper to tighten the SMAS layer.

Deep Plane Lift:

A step further than the SMAS, the deep plane lift treats pronounced sagging in the mid-face, lower face, and neck. The incisions, akin to the traditional facelift, penetrate deeper facial structures, yielding pronounced, lasting results.

Liquid Facelift:

A non-surgical approach, the liquid facelift uses injectables like dermal fillers and Botox to refresh the face. No incisions, just precise injections. Results are immediate but temporary compared to surgical procedures.

Why Plano Plastic Surgery?

At Plano Plastic Surgery, excellence is our standard. Both Dr. Haidenberg, with his 16 years of experience in cosmetic surgery, and Dr. Yaker, the celebrated force behind Plano Plastic Surgery, have dedicated years to perfecting aesthetic surgeries—from breast augmentations to rhinoplasties and liposuctions. With them, you’re not just opting for transformative results but also genuine care and understanding. Our approach is personal—tailored to every patient’s concerns and desires.

reverse tummy tuck before and after

How It’s Done

The procedure usually takes several hours and can be performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. After making the necessary incisions, the surgeon repositions fat and tissues, tightens underlying muscles, and trims excess skin. For a SMAS lift, the deeper layers of facial muscles are also lifted. Once the desired contour is achieved, the skin is sutured back. Advanced techniques and tools ensure minimal scarring and more natural-looking outcomes. After making the incision, the surgeon excises the redundant skin. Concurrently, liposuction may be employed to remove unwanted fat pockets, especially in areas like the flanks, abdomen, or thighs, further refining the body’s silhouette. For patients with muscle laxity in the abdominal region, the surgeon might also tighten the underlying muscles. This provides a firmer base and a more sculpted appearance. Once the desired reshaping is achieved, the incisions are sutured closed. Sometimes, temporary drain tubes are placed to prevent fluid accumulation. Before concluding, the surgeon assesses the overall contour and symmetry, ensuring an even and aesthetic result. Post-operative care begins immediately after the surgery, with guidelines provided to ensure a smooth and effective recovery.

Who is a Good Candidate?

A good candidate for a facelift:

  • Is generally in good health and does not have medical conditions that can impair healing.
  • Has realistic expectations about the results.
  • Does not smoke or is willing to quit before and after the surgery.
  • Shows signs of facial aging but still has some skin elasticity.
  • Is committed to following pre- and post-surgery instructions.

Facelift Recovery and What to Expect

The recovery journey post-facelift can vary among individuals based on the specific technique used, the patient’s overall health, and their body’s natural healing processes. However, a general overview of what one can expect includes:

Immediate Post-Op:

Upon completion of the surgery, your face might be bandaged to minimize swelling and to support the newly contoured structures. Small tubes might be placed to drain any excess blood or fluid. Mild to moderate pain, tightness, swelling, and bruising are expected, for which pain medication will be prescribed.

First Week:

Swelling and bruising will peak around the second or third day. Keeping your head elevated and avoiding strenuous activities can help reduce these symptoms. Drains, if placed, are usually removed within a couple of days. Most stitches or sutures are taken out after five to ten days.

Weeks 2-4:

By the end of the second week, noticeable bruising should significantly decrease or even disappear. You might start feeling more like yourself and can begin light activities, although heavy lifting or strenuous exercises are still off the table. Numbness, tingling, or a “tight” feeling around the surgical areas is typical but will gradually fade.

Months 1-3:

By this phase, the majority of the swelling has subsided. Incision lines, initially pink, start fading and will continue to improve over time. Returning to regular activities, including exercise, is usually permissible after the first month, though it's essential to follow your surgeon’s advice.

Long-term:

The full effects of a facelift can take several months to materialize as residual swelling diminishes and incision lines mature. Regular check-ups with your surgeon will ensure everything is healing correctly. To maximize the longevity of your facelift, maintain a healthy lifestyle, protect your skin from the sun, and follow a proper skincare routine.