Our Summary

This research paper talks about the different non-surgical treatments that can be used along with facelift surgery to give patients a more comprehensive facial makeover. These additional treatments focus on enhancing the volume of the face, improving the skin’s texture, treating skin pigmentation issues, using substances that relax facial muscles, and overall skin care. These techniques are used alongside surgical methods to fight signs of aging in the face.

For skin improvement, there are several options like dermabrasion (a skin-resurfacing procedure), chemical peels, and lasers. The paper discusses the pros and cons of each method. The paper also includes photos showing how effective these non-surgical treatments can be when combined with facelift surgery. The paper uses terms like botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox), cosmetic medicine, facelift, facial aging, intense pulsed light, lasers, and non-surgical.

FAQs

  1. What are some nonsurgical treatments that can be combined with a facelift for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation?
  2. What are the different options available for skin resurfacing and what are their advantages and limitations?
  3. How does intense pulsed light work in improving pigmentary changes in the skin during facial rejuvenation?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about facelift surgery is to consider incorporating nonsurgical treatments, such as dermal fillers or skin resurfacing, to enhance the results of the surgery and provide a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. These nonsurgical adjuncts can help address issues like volume loss, skin texture, and pigmentation changes, resulting in a more youthful and natural appearance. By combining surgical and nonsurgical techniques, patients can achieve optimal results and maintain a refreshed appearance for a longer period of time. It is important to consult with your doctor to determine the best combination of treatments for your individual needs.

Suitable For

Facelift surgery is typically recommended for patients who are looking to address signs of aging in the face, such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of facial volume. Ideal candidates for facelift surgery are generally in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure, and are looking to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Facelift surgery is often recommended for patients who are experiencing significant signs of aging in the face, such as deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and loss of facial volume. Patients who have excess skin or fat in the lower face and neck area may also benefit from a facelift procedure. Additionally, patients who are looking to address jowls, loose skin around the jawline, or a double chin may be good candidates for facelift surgery.

It is important for patients considering facelift surgery to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. The surgeon will evaluate the patient’s overall health, medical history, and aesthetic goals to determine if facelift surgery is the right choice for them. In some cases, patients may be recommended to undergo additional nonsurgical treatments in combination with facelift surgery to achieve optimal results.

Timeline

Before facelift surgery:

  1. Consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential risks of the procedure.
  2. Pre-operative assessments and tests to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Pre-operative instructions on things to do and avoid before the surgery, such as quitting smoking and avoiding certain medications.
  4. Surgery day, where the facelift procedure is performed under anesthesia.

After facelift surgery:

  1. Recovery period, which may include swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the plastic surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  3. Gradual improvement in facial appearance as swelling subsides and incisions heal.
  4. Potential additional procedures or treatments, such as skin resurfacing or injectables, to enhance the results of the facelift.
  5. Long-term maintenance with a good skincare routine and sun protection to prolong the results of the facelift.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with facelift surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after a facelift procedure?
  3. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in combination with the facelift for optimal results?
  4. How long can I expect the results of the facelift to last?
  5. Are there any nonsurgical alternatives to facelift surgery that may be suitable for me?
  6. What specific nonsurgical treatments do you recommend in combination with the facelift procedure for my individual needs?
  7. How many facelift surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  8. Can you show me before and after photos of patients who have undergone facelift surgery with nonsurgical adjuncts?
  9. What is the cost of the facelift procedure and any additional nonsurgical treatments?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or post-operative care instructions I should follow to ensure the best results from my facelift surgery?

Reference

Authors: Hammoudeh ZS, Stevens WG. Journal: Clin Plast Surg. 2019 Oct;46(4):613-623. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2019.06.002. Epub 2019 Jul 30. PMID: 31514812