Our Summary

This research paper talks about the effectiveness of traditional facelift surgery compared to less invasive cosmetic procedures. The authors argue that while many are attracted to ‘soft’ techniques that promise less recovery time and discomfort, these methods simply cannot deliver the same results as a well-executed facelift. They state that no device or procedure, whether it’s a thread lift, fillers, or treatments using radio waves, ultrasound or shock waves, can match the rejuvenating effects of a proper facelift. The paper then goes on to describe the best practices for performing facelift surgery, based on their long experience and in-depth study of facial anatomy. They emphasize that two key challenges in this surgery are determining the right depth of tissue dissection and the right amount of traction to apply to different tissue layers. They aim to provide clear guidance on these and other important details for performing a safe and effective facelift operation.

FAQs

  1. Can less invasive cosmetic procedures deliver the same results as a traditional facelift?
  2. What are the key challenges in performing a successful facelift surgery according to the research paper?
  3. What are the best practices for performing facelift surgery as described in the paper?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering a facelift that it is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in performing this type of surgery. They may also advise the patient to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications. Additionally, the doctor may stress the importance of realistic expectations and understanding that a facelift is a surgical procedure that requires time for recovery and healing.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a traditional facelift surgery are those who are looking for long-lasting and significant improvements in their facial appearance. This may include individuals who have:

  1. Significant sagging or drooping of the skin on the face and neck.
  2. Deep wrinkles and folds on the face, particularly around the cheeks and jowls.
  3. Loss of definition in the jawline and chin area.
  4. Loose or excess skin on the neck that creates a “turkey neck” appearance.
  5. A desire for more dramatic and comprehensive results than what can be achieved with non-invasive procedures.

It is important for patients considering a facelift to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery and to be in good overall health. Additionally, patients should be prepared for a recovery period of several weeks following the procedure, during which they may experience bruising, swelling, and discomfort.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo a facelift should be made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess the patient’s individual goals and concerns and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Timeline

Before a facelift:

  1. Consultation: The patient meets with a plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure. The surgeon evaluates the patient’s facial structure and skin condition to determine if they are a good candidate for a facelift.

  2. Pre-operative preparations: The patient may be required to undergo medical tests, stop taking certain medications, and avoid smoking in the weeks leading up to the surgery.

  3. Facelift surgery: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take several hours to complete. The surgeon makes incisions around the ears and possibly the hairline, lifts and repositions the underlying facial tissues, removes excess skin, and closes the incisions with sutures.

After a facelift:

  1. Recovery: The patient will experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days and weeks following the surgery. They will need to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

  2. Results: As the swelling subsides, the patient will start to see the full effects of the facelift, including a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. Final results may take several months to fully manifest as the skin settles into its new position.

  3. Follow-up appointments: The patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their progress, address any concerns, and ensure that the healing process is going smoothly.

Overall, the timeline of a facelift procedure involves careful preparation, the surgical procedure itself, a period of recovery, and ongoing follow-up care to ensure optimal results and patient satisfaction.

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. What results can I realistically expect from a facelift?
  4. Are there alternative non-surgical options that could achieve similar results?
  5. How many facelift procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  7. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  8. How long do the results of a facelift typically last?
  9. Can I see before and after photos of previous facelift patients you have treated?
  10. What qualifications and credentials do you have to perform facelift surgery?

Reference

Authors: Botti C, Botti G. Journal: Facial Plast Surg. 2015 Oct;31(5):491-503. doi: 10.1055/s-0035-1566270. Epub 2015 Nov 18. PMID: 26579864