FACELIFT
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is more than simply lifting or pulling the face. Essential to facial rejuvenation during a facelift is the skillful identification, handling, and suspension of the deeper facial tissues. Portland facial plastic surgeon Deniz Gerecci, MD performs a deep plane face and necklift that restores the skin and soft tissue back to a more youthful, natural looking position.
LOCATION
Surgery Center (Operating Room)
ANESTHESIA
General
DOWNTIME
DOWNTIME
1-2 weeks
COST RANGE
$10- $15,000
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A FACELIFT?
A facelift with or without a necklift is considered the premier method of facial rejuvenation. Indications of age that can be treated with this procedure include:
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Loose, sagging skin in the face and neck
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Jowls or hanging soft tissue along the jawline
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Wrinkles and facial creases in the lower third of the face and neck
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Horizontal and vertical neck bands
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Loose muscle in the neck preventing a smooth contour
A consultation can be a great opportunity to learn whether a facelift and necklift is the most ideal treatment to help you fulfill your cosmetic goals.
HOW IS A FACELIFT PERFORMED?
Rhytidectomy, more commonly referred to as a Facelift or Necklift, is performed under deep sedation or a general anesthetic in the operating room. This allows Dr. Gerecci to access the deeper tissues through hidden incisions around the ears and below the chin. Using a modified deep plane extended SMAS rhytidectomy, Dr. Gerecci can resuspend the deeper tissues that have descended over time. Simultaneously in a separate plane, she can redrape the skin in a natural position and avoid any excess tension or an unnatural, over-pulled, or “wind-swept” result.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER A FACELIFT
This is an outpatient procedure. Once the procedure is complete, patients can go home with a light compressive head wrap that is worn for 24 hours and suction drains. The following morning, patients will return to have the dressing removed and Dr. Gerecci will examine the operative site. We will demonstrate how to clean the incisions around the ears. The sutures will remain in place for one week. Patients can expect swelling and bruising around the surgical site, which should both resolve after the first week. Makeup and skin care regimens can be restarted on day 10 after the procedure. Patients usually have minimal downtime of one to two weeks before returning to work, and we ask those patients traveling from out of town to stay for routine checks during this time period.
ARE THERE NON-SURGICAL ALTERNATIVES TO FACELIFT?
There are no non-surgical treatments that can achieve the quality and longevity of rejuvenation a facelift is able to accomplish. That said, for individuals who are not quite ready for surgery, some minimally invasive options may be available. Radiofrequency technologies allow for skin and soft tissue tightening and may be of benefit. Liposuction can sometimes be performed to reduce the fatty tissue under the neck. A chin implant can sometimes help improve the contour of the neck and jawline. Neuromodulators and dermal fillers can also be used to help improve signs of aging in the lower face and neck.
SCHEDULE YOUR FACELIFT CONSULTATION TODAY
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation for your facelift with Dr. Gerecci. She can let you know if a facelift is the right choice for you and can recommend additional or alternative procedures and treatments to help you reach your goals.