A facelift can make you look younger, restoring a more naturally youthful appearance by lifting and firming sagging facial tissues. When excess, sagging, skin is removed, deep folds are smoothed, and the deep tissues of the face are lifted and tightened, a facelift can potentially work wonders.
As we age, our face naturally loses its elasticity and volume. As a result, it is common to develop jowls, neck bands, lower cheeks, and loose skin. The signs of aging are a natural part of growing older, but some patients find that a facelift is a good solution to these concerns and can help to boost their confidence.
Types of Facelifts
Mini-Facelift
A mini facelift is often appropriate for patients who have minimal sagging skin and mild jowls. In this less invasive technique, the surgeon makes discreet incisions along the hairline above each ear and usually around the ear creases to tighten deep facial tissues. Jowls are reduced, the cheeks are lifted, and the neck is tightened by lifting and tethering structural tissues around ear and hairline. This results in a more youthful and rested appearance.
Dr Smith will recommend what type of anesthesia is appropriate for your individual needs when performing a mini facelift. A mini facelift can help to delay the need for more invasive surgery for several years by addressing unwanted signs of aging before they become too prominent. It’s the perfect option for those who don’t require, or desire, a standard facelift.
Deep Plane Facelift
A deep plane facelift is the more comprehensive option for moderate to advanced aging of the face and neck, and it is the technique Dr. Smith uses for most facelifts. Recovery is longer than with a mini facelift, but the results are more dramatic and longer lasting. Through incisions behind the hairline, near the temples, and around the front of the ear, Dr. Smith works beneath the SMAS, releases the ligaments that hold tissue in its aged position, and repositions the deeper tissues to eliminate jowls and restore a youthful appearance to the face and neck, without the telltale signs of older skin-only lifts. Learn more about the deep plane facelift.
How Does Facelift Surgery Work?
Plastic surgeons use different techniques for a facelift depending on factors such as a patient’s anatomy and personal aesthetic goals.
In a deep plane facelift, the surgeon works beneath the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), the layer of muscle and connective tissue that supports the skin. Releasing the ligaments that tether this layer allows the SMAS and the skin above it to be repositioned together to a more youthful and natural position. After removing excess skin, the remaining skin closes without tension, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance without an overtightened or wind-swept look.
Can I Have a Nonsurgical Facelift?
Some non-invasive treatments can make you look more youthful without removing sagging skin or repositioning tissues. If you don’t think that a surgical facelift is the right option for you, you could consider alternatives, such as Botox, fat injections, dermal fillers, a liquid facelift, micro-needling, chemical peels, or laser skin resurfacing.
Facelifts are a very common procedure that many people undergo when they wish to reduce signs of aging. There are numerous different facelift options, which can be tailored to your specific needs. Contact the office today to learn more.
