Facelift Learning Center

Facelift Surgery Overview

A facelift is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed specifically to improve the signs of aging on the face and neck. During a facelift, both the facial skin and underlying SMAS layer are tightened. The SMAS layer is a layer of gliding, connective tissue. By tightening the SMAS, the amount of skin removed is reduced, thereby avoiding a “pulled” facial appearance. The typical facelift incision pattern starts within the scalp an inch above the ear and courses downward following the curve of the ear. It then disappears inside the ear behind the small protruding cartilage to emerge at the top of the earlobe, where it courses within the earlobe crease to the bottom of the ear. If prominent neck “banding” is present, another small incision under the chin may be necessary. A mini-facelift is an excellent choice for patients who have modest aging changes in the lower cheeks, but otherwise have a near-normal neck contour and minimal loose skin. This cosmetic surgery procedure eliminates most of the scars that are placed behind the ears in a traditional facelift.

Dr. Ditesheim’s Approach to Facelift Surgery

Dr. Ditesheim has extensive experience working with facial structures. It takes special training and experience to work with variations of the face successfully. Different face shapes require attention to different details. Dr. Diteshem will take the time to discuss your facelift procedure options in order to obtain the look you desire.

Facelift Surgery Pre-Operative Overview

Dr. Ditesheim and his experienced staff will provide you with pre-surgical information that includes guidelines about drinking, smoking and avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Dr. Ditesheim’s caring staff has a wealth of experience in preparing patients and their families for the cosmetic surgery recovery process and ensuring a predictable, smooth process.

Facelift Surgery

Facelift procedures differ depending on your individual desired outcome for your facial features. This creates variations in surgery times to range between 2 – 5 hours. The procedure is usually done as an outpatient, under general anesthesia administered by a physician anesthesiologist to minimize discomfort during the procedure. The facelift procedure may be preformed in a partner hospital near Ditesheim Cosmetic Surgery or in our own AAASF(American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities) accredited surgical suite. Our surgical facilities are built and run by strict standards, to ensure the highest level of safety and comfort.

Facelift Surgery Recovery

Once the facelift is complete, your face will be dressed in order to minimize swelling and bruising. The bandaging may include drainage tubes, which should be removed within a couple of days. All sutures and/or staples will be removed within five to ten days. While recovery usually takes a few weeks, it may take a few months for the swelling to subside and to fully see the complete results of your facelift. It is important to wear sun block to enjoy more of a long lasting result. Our nurses will walk with you through your facelift recovery to ensure rest, relaxation, and peace of mind. We have established a "no surprises, predictable recovery process."

Facelift Surgery Cost

Many patients express a desire for a more contoured appearance in the eyes and forehead, and thus, also inquire about an eye lift. It is very common for women to have the two procedures done together in order to achieve the most ideal results. Dr. Ditesheim will recommend the appropriate cosmetic surgery procedure once you have discussed your desired outcome.

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