Deciphering The Different Types Of Facelifts

Men and women everywhere are turning to cosmetic surgery and med spa treatments to look younger. For most people, the first signs of aging appear on the face. Facial lines, wrinkles, and other concerns may show up as early as our 20s, but patients usually start to seek treatment in their 30s and 40s. Thanks to its ability to produce dramatic and long-lasting results, the facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is one of the most highly sought-after cosmetic procedures for patients concerned about the signs of aging.

The renowned plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA have unmatched experience when it comes to facelifts, having performed numerous facelift procedures for Northern Virginia men and women. While a facelift can be extremely effective at addressing many common signs of aging, there are several different facelift options available, each designed to target a specific area or set of issues. It is important to select a knowledgeable and experienced surgeon to help you choose the facelift procedure that may benefit you the most.

What are the different kinds of facelifts?

During your initial one-on-one consultation at Austin-Weston, one of our expert plastic surgeons will evaluate your case, discuss your goals, and answer your questions. The surgeon will then recommend a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. While a full facelift can be advantageous for most patients, there is a wide variety of more targeted facelift options to choose from. Types of facelift procedures include:

• Full facelift: The full facelift is considered the gold standard among facelifts. This procedure is designed to address areas of concern across the entire face and can help with lines, wrinkles, facial folds, and a variety of other concerns.
• Mid-face lift: The mid-face lift targets the area from the lower eyelids to the upper lip, focusing mainly on the cheeks.
• Lower facelift: For patients concerned about the lower face, including the lower cheeks and jowls, a lower facelift can be very effective.
• Neck lift: A neck lift can help patients get rid of sagging jowls, a droopy chin, neck fat, and other unwanted symptoms around the lower face and neck.
• Brow lift: As we age, our brow naturally begins to sag, leaving us with a tired, worried, or even angry appearance. The brow lift can help to raise the position of the brow, resulting in a more youthful, rested look overall.

Regardless of your concerns about the signs of aging on your face, there is likely a facelift procedure that can help you. Consult your surgeon about the most appropriate treatment or surgery for your particular case.

What can I expect from a facelift procedure?

Though it has become exceedingly common, a facelift is still a complex surgery. It is crucial that patients considering a facelift select a qualified and highly experienced surgeon to perform the procedure. The facial plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery are exceptionally familiar with the nuances and intricacies of the various facelift procedures and techniques, and they can guide patients through the facelift process with confidence.

Depending on the specific procedure being performed, a facelift typically takes around four hours to complete and is performed using general anesthesia. During the surgery, the surgeon will strategically place the incisions along the hairline, usually starting around the temples and going around the ears, in order to minimize the visibility of any scarring. The fat, tissue, and muscles in the face are manipulated and repositioned, and the skin is re-draped over the face, with any excess skin being removed as necessary. The incisions are closed with precision, and the wounds are dressed with gauze and bandages.

Immediately following the procedure, patients are taken to a recovery room. If a patient wishes to stay overnight, we offer a nurse care suite, or patients can be released to their home in the care of a trusted friend or family member.

What is the facelift recovery period like?

Depending on which type of facelift a patient undergoes, the postoperative and recovery period can vary. In general, patients can expect some discomfort for the first 2 – 5 days, but this is usually well tolerated and subsides quickly. Bruising and swelling will likely linger for several weeks, but most patients are able to return to work and normal daily activities after about one week. The bulk of the swelling should disappear after about a month, and final photos are taken at about 3 – 4 months, when a patient can see the dramatic and beautiful facelift results.

How do I know which type of facelift is right for me?

With a list of options to choose from, selecting the right facelift procedure can be a difficult process. If you are considering a facelift, brow lift, neck lift, or even a noninvasive liquid facelift, the first step is to be evaluated by an experienced and certified plastic surgeon. Call our convenient Northern Virginia office to schedule your consultation with one of our plastic surgeons today, and learn how Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery can help you achieve the look of your dreams through a facelift procedure.