For those who are displeased with saggy skin and wrinkles on their face or neck, a surgical procedure known as a rhytidectomy, or facelift, can be used to address the problem. The amount of loose, saggy facial skin and wrinkles brought about by aging can be greatly reduced with this type of cosmetic surgery.

A number of factors will decide which facelift option will work best for an individual patient. These include: skin elasticity, face shape, degree and amount of ptosis (sagging) or wrinkles, and location of problem areas. A good facelift results in a smooth, natural-looking lift and sculpting effect with minimal scarring.

Facelift Candidates

Ideal candidates for rhytidectomy will be healthy both physically and mentally and have realistic expectations about the procedure. A well-defined bone structure and good skin elasticity also contribute to excellent results. That said, by using advanced techniques in facial rejuvenation, cosmetic surgeons may be able to correct problems related to bone structure or severe ptosis.

Traditional Facelift Surgery

Traditional facelift surgery, when performed correctly by a qualified cosmetic surgeon, is by far the most effective way to address wrinkled and sagging skin on the entire face. This type of surgery provides the most dramatic and long-lasting results, but is also the most invasive technique. During traditional facelift surgery, the skin is gently peeled away from the underlying tissue, excess skin is cut away, and the skin is then sutured into its new position. Recovery can be long (several weeks or months), and patients may have permanent scars in the hairline and in front of the ears, although many patients can successfully hide them.

 

Endoscopic Face Lift Surgery

The endoscopic (scarless) facelift procedure is a minimally invasive way to correct frown lines, saggy cheeks, mouth and nose creases and/or permanent frowns (downturned lips). The technique requires three or more very small incisions placed behind the ear or in the hairline through which a long thin camera and delicate surgical instruments are inserted. Quicker recoveries and fewer complications are two of the major benefits of the endoscopic procedure.

Mid Facelift Surgery

Another option for addressing problems around the nose, eyes and cheeks is a mid facelift. An upward "lift" can be achieved with small, deep incisions camouflaged in the lower lashes and creases around the nose. A combined vertical and diagonal lift can be achieved with an endoscopic mid facelift, which uses small incisions hidden in the hairline. Mid facelifts require a small amount of recovery time (approximately one week), and result in less swelling and bruising than traditional procedures.

Lower Facelift

A lower facelift can correct sagging and wrinkles in the bottom one-third of the face. The S technique requires a very small, s-shaped incision just beside the ear. With the SMAS lower facelift technique, the skin and muscles of the cheek are repositioned using an incision that starts at the temple and swoops around the ear. Both lower facelifts involve removing excess fat and tightening muscles and skin.

Mini Facelift

For patients with only minor sagging and looseness in the face and neck, surgeons may perform a mini, or "weekend," facelift. Recovery is relatively quick with this minimally-invasive procedure.

Research shows that frequently the best and most natural-looking face lifts are performed by facial cosmetic surgeons who have specialized training in facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.