Facelift Info

Candidates

Ideal facelift patients are in good general health and have realistic expectations about the results that can be achieved with their procedure. Candidates are typically between 40 and 60 years of age; however, many patients into their 80s can gain a significant improvement in their appearance with a facelift. People seeking facelift surgery may identify with one or more of the following:

• Sagging skin in the midface 
• Drooping tissues along the jawline 
• Loss of volume in the cheeks 
• Deep creasing of the nasolabial folds 
• Lines along the mouth 
• Loss of muscle tone around the neck

Procedure

Facelift surgery is a common procedure, but it requires extensive knowledge and a unique skill set to perform. An artistic understanding of the underlying muscular structure is important in order to achieve natural-looking results.

Dr. Graham performs all facelifts in the renowned Ochsner Clinic. Facelift surgery is an outpatient procedure and is typically performed under general anesthesia. 

The procedure begins with an incision placed behind the ear. Depending the extent of correction needed, the incision can run the length of the hairline. Through the incision, the soft tissue is separated from the underlying muscular layer. The muscles are pulled tight and sutured into place. Excess tissue is trimmed away, and what remains is draped to enhance the new contours of the face. The incisions are closed and covered with bandages.

Techniques

• Traditional Facelift: The incisions run from the temples down to the natural crease behind the ears. Ideal for patients with sagging around the cheeks and jawline. 
• Mid-Facelift: The incisions are placed just in front of the ears. Ideal for patients with deep nasolabial creases or drooping skin around the midface. 
• Neck Lift: Tightens the neck muscles and removes excess skin from below the jawline. Ideal for patients with sagging, unattractive jowls. 
• Liposuction: For qualifying patients, liposuction can be used to achieve a better facial contour along the jawline, thin the neck, and enhance the appearance of the chin.

Recovery

Following your surgery, you may experience some bruising, redness, and swelling. You may experience minor discomfort that can be controlled using oral pain medication. You will rest the first few days with your head in an upright position at all times. You should avoid strenuous physical activities for two to three weeks following your procedure.

 Most major swelling should subside after six weeks. During this time, you should avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight. This can affect the quality of your facelift results. You can resume your normal activities, including exercise, after four weeks with your surgeon’s permission.  

Results

The results of your facelift should become apparent after four to six weeks. While facelift surgery provides long-lasting correction of sagging skin, the procedure cannot halt the natural aging process. Many patients choose to undergo repeat injectable treatments to maintain the results of their facelift.

Combination Procedures

Facelift surgery is commonly combined with other facial procedures to achieve overall facial rejuvenation. Eyelid surgery helps brighten fatigued eyes. Brow surgery relaxes and smooths the forehead. When performed in conjunction, these procedures can help restore a fresh, youthful appearance.