A number of factors can lead to the appearance of premature aging: stress, gravity, sun exposure, diet, pollution, genetics, or combinations of all of these. Premature aging shows up on the face as deep wrinkles and lines, sagging skin, and even jowl formation. A facelift can correct these issue by making incisions behind the hairline, pulling the skin taught to remove jowls, sags, and deep lines, and removing excess skin. Its an excellent way to reverse the visible signs of aging. Here are some common questions about facelifts:
What is the Difference Between a Facelift and a Mini-Facelift?
A full facelift affects the skin from the eye area to the jaw, while a mini-facelift lifts the skin of the lower half of the face. The incisions with mini-facelifts is smaller and the recovery can be shorter in some cases.
How Is A Facelift Done?
Facelifts are done under general anesthesia. An incision is made at the temple, running behind the hairline, and around the hairline in the back of the ears. The tissues and skin of the face are lifted back toward the forehead, repositioned, and then excess tissue is removed. The incisions are then closed. If you want to have additional procedures (such as eyelid surgery), it is possible to combine them into one procedure.
How Long Is Recovery For A Facelift?
You will have some swelling for up to three days after surgery, and most patients take two weeks off to recover. During the first few days, you can increase your comfort by wearing button-down shirts and avoiding pulling on your hair or face. Youll be able to return to exercising or vigorous activity at four to six weeks after surgery.
How Do I Know If I Should Get a Facelift Or A Mini-Facelift?
If you only have concerns about the skin of of your lower cheeks or along the jawline, a mini-facelift might be better for you. If you have deep lines or sagging from the eyelids or upper cheeks to your jawline, a full facelift is probably more appropriate. Your surgeon will discuss each option with you to help you decide.
How Old Do I Have To Be To Get A Facelift?
Theres no minimum or maximum age requirement for adults seeking a facelift. If youre bothered by sagging skin on your face, you might be a candidate! Your surgeon will help you decide if there are other, non-surgical or less invasive surgical options that might be a better fit for you.
If you would like to schedule a free facelift consultation in Northern Virginia, or if you have other questions, please call our offices at (703) 574-2588. And be sure to check out our gallery of facelift before and afters!