Question:
Is there a particular age when most people start to consider getting a facelift?

Answer:
A facelift is a surgery that addresses the extra skin in the neck as well as along the jaw line. It involves muscle tightening, skin removal and occasionally liposuction.
There are no set guidelines for the “right time” for a facelift. There is some advantage to doing facelifts at a younger age in that the tissues tend to hold better and longer. That said, I generally tell patients that the right time is when you see changes that you are motivated to improve and I am confident that I can correct those changes. The first step to determining if now is the right time for a facelift is to meet with a board certified facial plastic surgeon in consultation.

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Question:
Could you please explain to me the similarities and differences of a facelift and a mini-facelift?

Answer:
This is a common question, and unfortunately there are no rigid rules when it comes to the differences. That said, both a facelift and a mini-facelift are used to lift skin and tissues of the lower face and neck. Typically a facelift will involve extensive muscle work under the chin and in front of the ears, skin undermining and excision, sometimes liposuction, all from incisions both in front of and behind the ears and extending into the hairline. Mini-lifts typically are approached from more limited incisions, involve less muscle work and liposuction as well as less skin excision. The advantage of the mini-lift is less surgery time, less risks, and a quicker recovery. Unfortunately as with most things in cosmetic surgery, less invasive often means less possible results. For patients with very early aging, this may be all that is needed and a great option. For those with more extensive aging, a full facelift is often required to get the best results.

Both a mini-facelift and a facelift can be great options to achieve facial rejuvenation. Consultation with a facial plastic surgeon is the first step in deciding which option is best for you!

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Question:
After almost a year of investigating different cosmetic procedures, I have finally decided that I would like a facelift. I am planning it during my two week vacation from work. I am also not going to tell anyone except my best friend that I am getting it done. Will the bruising be completely gone by two weeks? Should I take another week’s vacation so that no one can tell that I have had a face lift?

Answer:
Most patients are able to get back out after 2 weeks following a facelift, but WITH make-up. Although most the swelling and bruising will be gone, some will probably persist. In addition, the incisions will stay pink for several weeks. Spending time with an experienced make-up artist (which our office has full time) is critical to getting back to things quickly.

Recovery after facial surgery is typically shorter than most patients expect, but spending time with an experienced make up artist can really expedite the process.

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