Mini Face and Neck Lift

A face lift is a procedure that rejuvenates and restores the appearance of the face and neck. As we age, the effects of gravity, exposure to the sun, and the stresses of daily life can be seen in our faces. Deep creases form between the nose and mouth; the jaw line grows slack and jowly due to loss of facial volume; folds and fat deposits appear around the neck. A facelift (technically known as rhytidectomy) can't stop this aging process. What it can do is improve the most visible signs of aging by removing excess fat and skin, tightening underlying muscles, and redraping the skin of your face and neck.

The Procedure:

The incisions usually begin above the hairline at the temples, extend in a natural line in front of the ear, and continue behind the earlobe to the lower scalp. For neck tightening and rejuvenation, a small incision may also be made under the chin.

The skin is then carefully separated from the fat and muscle below. Fat may also be trimmed or suctioned around the neck and chin to improve contour. The underlying muscle and membrane are tightened, skin redraped, and any excess removed. When the surgery is complete, the incisions will be closed and the area will be washed. Gauze and an elastic bandage will then be used to minimize bruising and swelling.

Recovery:

There isn't usually significant discomfort after surgery. Incision site pain is usually minimal and can be controlled with medication. For a few days after surgery, keeping the head elevated will help keep the swelling down. Some numbness of the skin is normal; it will disappear in a few weeks or months. All surgical patients need to refrain from smoking and carefully follow the pre- and post-operative surgical instructions.

Although many patients are up and about in a day or two, plan on taking it easy for at least the first week after surgery. Be especially gentle with your face and hair, since . your skin will be both tender and numb, and may not respond normally at first. Bandages are removed between one to five days. It is common for the face to be pale, bruised, and puffy at this time. The stitches in the front of the ear are removed after about five days. The remaining stitches and staples in the hairline are removed a few days later.

Most patients are back to work in 7 to 10 days. Avoid strenuous activity, including jogging, bending, heavy housework, sex, or any activity that may increase blood pressure. By the third week, you'll look and feel much better.

Risks

Mini Face and Neck procedures carry fewer risks than traditional facelift procedures because they are less invasive and can be performed under local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia. However like any other type of surgery, there are inherent risks which can include post-operative swelling, bleeding (bruising), visible scarring, nerve damage (often temporary and usually resolve with time). M oreover, refraining from smoking and carefully following the pre-and post-operative surgical instructions reduces the likelihood of these complications.

Questions:

Q: How much time is required for a face lift / neck lift?
A: The surgery requires approximately 3-5 hours. As with all surgeries, the amount of time needed varies from patient to patient.

Q: Is a face lift / neck lift an inpatient or outpatient procedure?
A: Outpatient.

Q: What are some common side effects?
A: Most side effects of face lifts / neck lifts are temporary. They include discomfort, swelling, numbness, bruising, and feeling of tightness of the facial skin.

Q: What is the recovery time?
A: Most patients are able to return to work in 7 to 10 days.

Q: How long do the results last?
A: The results after a face lift / neck lift last for many years, often up to 10 years or more. However, the procedure does not stop the clock. The influences of aging and gravity will continue as time passes. The exact length of time varies with each individual.

Q: What are the differences between the many different types of face lifts? Such as Mini-lift, C-lift, S-lift, MACS lift, SMAS lift, Subperiosteal face lift Quick lift Lifestyle lift, etc.
A: Each of the above procedures are variations of the standard face lift. Dr. Roham will discuss with you to better understand your goals and desires. The actual technique used will be customized to your needs.