COSMETIC LASER SURGERY CENTRE OF INDIA E-34, GREATER KAILASH - I NEW DELHI - 110048 PHONE +91-11-29236550, 29236912
What
Is a Facelift?
A
facelift, or "rhytidectomy," is a surgical procedure designed
to improve the most visible signs of the aging process by eliminating excess
fat, tightening the muscles beneath the skin of the neck, and removing sagging
skin. It doesn't stop the aging process but merely "sets the clock
back."
As we age, our facial skin loosens and wrinkles, and the muscles of the
neck may weaken as well. Anything that will cause the skin to lose elasticity
will hasten the process, including sun exposure, weight fluctuations and
heredity. A facelift can address these problems by firming and tightening
the skin of the face and neck all in one step. It is most effective for
the lower face (jowls and neck). A double chin can be improved at the same
time by a surgical procedure called supplemental lipectomy. To effect a
more complete facial rejuvenation, facelifts are frequently done in conjunction
with other procedures such as upper eyelid blepharoplasty and lower eyelid
blepharoplasty. Your surgeon may also recommend injections of collagen or
Botox for deep creases in your forehead or frown lines between your eyebrows.
Contrary to popular opinion, the texture of the skin will not be changed
by a facelift. Acne scars, age spots, fine lines and smoker’s creases
will soon return to their original texture, no matter how tight the skin
is pulled. A facelift will not give someone beautiful skin unless they have
beautiful skin to begin with. However, skin treatments such as laser resurfacing
or chemical resurfacing can be used in combination with a facelift to improve
the texture of the skins and smooth skin wrinkles.
If you're considering a facelift, the following information will provide
you with a good introduction to the procedure. For more detailed information
about how this procedure may help you, we recommend that you consult a board-certified
plastic surgeon with experience in facelift surgery.
What
Is Submusclar Aponeurotic System?
The
SMAS is a layer beneath the skin that invests the facial muscles. By tightening
the SMAS, the jowls are lifted, the neck is tightened, and the cheeks are
elevated. This "deep" or "two-layer" facelift is an
improvement over earlier skin-only techniques.
How
Long Does a Facelift Last?
No
one can say for sure. The clock is turned back but keeps on running. Ten
years later, you will look better than if you never had surgery. Many patients
never have a second lift, while others may desire further surgery seven
to 15 years later.
Can
Surgery Be Done Without Scars?
The
scars from facelift surgery usually fade and are barely perceptible. In
some patients, especially younger ones, endoscopic surgery can be used to
lift the eyebrows, remove frown lines, elevate the cheek and jowls, and
tighten the neck. This endoscopic surgery can be done with tiny scars. However,
if there is excessive skin, it must be removed for the best results through
standard facelift incisions.
How
Long Will I Be Out From Work?
Most
patients are able to return to work in two to three weeks. You should allow
four to eight weeks before major social engagements.
How
Can I Hide Things During the Time Until I Return to Normal?
Your
surgeon will discuss post-operative camouflage techniques with you prior
to your surgery, but be assured that while almost everyone has some sort
of temporary side effect such as bruising and swelling, there are makeup
techniques that both men and women can use almost immediately to disguise
them. Generally speaking, makeup techniques can be used soon after surgery
to cover discolorations, and to hide incision lines after the stitches have
been removed and the incision is completely closed. Camouflage cosmetics
include three basic types of products: concealers to hide incision lines
and discolorations; contour shadows to disguise swelling; and color correctors
to neutralize color in reddened skin.
Color correctors disguise yellowish discolorations or the pinkness that
follows chemical peel and dermabrasion. Lavender neutralizes or removes
yellow, and green has a similar effect on red. It will take a little patience
and practice to master camouflage techniques, but most post-op patients
feel it's well worth the effort.
