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Home > Procedures > Facial Plastic Surgery Procedures > Facelift

Facelift

A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck. A facelift can make you look more rested and younger. This procedure is often combined with a brow lift and eyelid surgery as correcting sagging and wrinkled facial skin and eye bags can make patients look younger, healthier, and refreshed. A facelift is a very complex procedure that involves the facial nerve and should only be done by a qualified, experienced Chicago plastic surgeon.

What can a facelift treat?

A facelift can improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck, resulting in a more youthful, healthy appearance. A facelift is best at solving such problems as:

  • Sagging in the midface
  • Deep creases below the lower eyelids
  • Deep creases along the nose extending to the corner of the mouth
  • Fat that has fallen or is displaced
  • Jowls due to the loss of muscle tone in the lower face
  • Double chin caused by loose skin and excess fatty deposits which makes even a person of normal weight appear to have a double chin

Rejuvenation procedures typically performed in conjunction with a facelift are brow lift to correct a sagging or deeply furrowed brow and eyelid surgery to rejuvenate aging eyes.

Is a facelift right for me?

A facelift is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. Facelift surgery is a good option for you if:

  • You would not like to alter your facial appearance but would like your face to appear younger and refreshed.
  • You are physically healthy
  • You do not smoke
  • You have a positive outlook and specific, but realistic, goals in mind for the improvement of your appearance.

What happens during a facelift?
  • Step 1 - Anesthesia

    Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Weinzweig, your Chicago plastic surgeon, and your anesthesiologist, will recommend the best choice for you.

  • Step 2 - The Incision

    Depending on the degree of change you'd like to see, your facelift choices include a traditional facelift or a limited incision facelift. The type of facelift will change the location of the incision.

  • Traditional Facelift

    A traditional facelift incision often begins in the hairline at the temples, continues around the ear and ends in the lower scalp.

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    Traditional Incision Line  

  • Limited Incision Facelift

    An alternative to a traditional facelift uses shorter incisions at the temples, continuing around the ear and possibly within the lower eyelids or under the upper lip.

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    Limited Incision Line

  • Step 3 - Resculpt, Redrape, and Remove Excess Skin

    Fat may be sculpted or redistributed from the face, jowls, and neck. The underlying tissue is repositioned and commonly the deeper layers of the face and the muscles are lifted. Skin is redraped over the uplifted contours and excess skin is trimmed away. A second incision under the chin may be necessary to further improve an aging neck.

  • Step 4 - Close the Incision

    Sutures or skin adhesives may be used close the incisions. Once healed, the incision lines from a facelift are well concealed within the hairline and in the natural contours of the face and ears.

  • Step 5 - See the Results

    The visible improvements of a facelift appear as swelling and bruising subside. Your final result should not only restore a more youthful and rested appearance, but also help you feel more confident about yourself.

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    Facelift Before Example       Facelift After Example

    What should I expect during the recovery period?

    When your procedure is completed, a bandage may gently be placed around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. A thin tube may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin. We offer post-surgical make-up assistance to help you conceal bruising during your recovery period.

    You will be given specific instructions that may include: How to care for the surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health, and when to follow up with Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago cosmetic surgeon.

    What are the risks of facelift surgery?

    All plastic surgery carries risks along with the many rewards as no surgery is risk free. Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago plastic surgeon, will explain the risks in your consultation so you can make an informed decision based on your unique situation.

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