Our Summary

This research paper is a comprehensive overview of four popular facelift techniques, aimed at helping beginners in the field of plastic surgery. The paper was written in response to a survey which showed that American plastic surgery trainees and program directors were more comfortable with aesthetic surgery of the breast and trunk than with facelift surgery. The four techniques discussed are the minimal access cranial suspension-lift, lateral-SMASectomy, extended-SMAS, and composite rhytidectomy. The paper breaks down each technique in an easy-to-understand way, summarizing the main features and possible complications of each method. The paper also compares the strengths and weaknesses of each technique.

FAQs

  1. What are the four popular facelift techniques discussed in the research paper?
  2. Why was this research paper on facelift techniques written?
  3. Does the paper discuss the possible complications of each facelift technique?

Doctor’s Tip

One tip a doctor might give a patient considering a facelift is to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of complications. This can include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and properly caring for the surgical site to promote healing. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prolong the results of the facelift. It’s important to have realistic expectations and to communicate openly with your surgeon about your goals and concerns.

Suitable For

Facelift surgery is typically recommended for patients who are experiencing signs of aging in the face and neck, such as loose or sagging skin, deep creases or folds, jowls, and loss of definition along the jawline. Patients who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery are typically good candidates for a facelift.

It is important for patients to have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for a facelift and to discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure. Patients should also be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with facelift surgery, such as infection, scarring, nerve damage, and asymmetry.

Overall, facelift surgery can help to improve the appearance of the face and neck, giving patients a more youthful and rejuvenated look. It is important for patients to do their research and choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to perform their facelift in order to achieve the best possible results.

Timeline

  1. Consultation: Before undergoing a facelift, a patient will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, medical history, and any concerns they may have. The surgeon will assess the patient’s facial structure and skin quality to determine the best approach for the facelift.

  2. Pre-operative preparations: Prior to the surgery, the patient will be given instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which may include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and arranging for transportation to and from the surgical facility.

  3. Facelift surgery: During the facelift procedure, the surgeon will make incisions around the ears and possibly along the hairline to access the underlying tissues. The skin will be lifted, excess fat may be removed, and the muscles and tissues will be tightened. The skin will then be re-draped and the incisions closed.

  4. Recovery: After the facelift surgery, the patient will experience bruising, swelling, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses. The patient will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a period of time as the healing process takes place.

  5. Follow-up appointments: The patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise. The surgeon will provide guidance on post-operative care and when it is safe to resume normal activities.

  6. Long-term results: Over time, the swelling and bruising will subside, revealing the final results of the facelift. The patient can expect a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance, with improvements in facial contour and skin tightness. Proper skincare and sun protection will help maintain the results of the facelift for as long as possible.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a facelift procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery period after a facelift surgery?
  3. Will there be any visible scarring after the procedure?
  4. How long will the results of the facelift last?
  5. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to a facelift that I should consider?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  7. How many facelift procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  8. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous facelift patients?
  9. What type of post-operative care will be required after the procedure?
  10. What is the cost of the facelift procedure, and does it include any follow-up appointments or touch-up procedures?

Reference

Authors: Hashem AM, Couto RA, Surek C, Swanson M, Zins JE. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2021 Sep 14;41(10):NP1276-NP1294. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjab081. PMID: 33558887