What is a facelift?

A facelift, called rhytidectomy, is the third most commonly performed facial surgeries worldwide. As we age, typical signs occur including crow’s feet around the eyes and forehead lines also appear and deepen. The jawline becomes slack and undefined causing jowls begin to form and a double chin. The neck can also exhibit banding in the front. Also, volume loss creating hollows and shadows occurs. All of these aging changes are due to a number of factors including genetics, tobacco use, and sun exposure.

The goal of face and neck lifting is to improve the overall facial appearance and obtain a youthful, but natural look. This procedure can be successful on patients from thirties to eighties. A facelift cannot stop the aging process; however it can reverse some of the telltale signs of aging. Many patients also experience increased self-confidence as a result of the procedure.

If you are interested in Facelift in Florida, we want you to be familiar and comfortable with the entire process.

Deep-plane facelift

A deep plane facelift is the most advanced lift performed by surgeons to improve the neck and face. Because of the skill required, only the most experienced surgeons like Dr. Meier perform this type of lift. Most facelifts consist of pulling on the skin and/or tissues in front of the ear and suspending the neck and jawline. This can have varying results and often leads to a pulled or windswept appearance, which is unnatural. The deep plane lift differs because it elevates the entire muscle and tissue plane that cause banding in the neck and sagging of the jawline. By elevating this muscle and tissue plane and freeing it from the skin and underlying structures, Dr. Meier is able to create the most significant, long-lasting results but with a very natural appearance. The deep plane facelift is indicated for any age and gives the best results long-term.

Facelift Consultation

So you have decided that you are very interested in a facelift (rhytidectomy) and would like to take the next step. Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Meier will give you the information you need about the entire process.

During the one-on-one consultation, you will meet with Dr. Meier and discuss your goals with facelift surgery. Dr. Meier will review your medical and surgical history as well as medications. It is important to let Dr. Meier know of any facial surgeries that have been performed in the past.

Facelift Procedure

Prior to Surgery

Dr. Meier will give you a detailed list of instructions on what to do prior to surgery. Blood thinning medications should be discontinued for a period of time prior to surgery. It is also important not to eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your facelift. Certain medications that Dr. Meier specifies are allowed, such as blood pressure medicines, can be taken with a sip of water.

Facelift Surgery

You will arrive at the facility for the surgery and meet the nursing staff. They will review your paperwork and start an IV for anesthesia. You will then meet the board-certified anesthesiologist who will be administering your anesthetic for the procedure. They will ask you questions regarding your medical and surgical history and review the anesthesia process with you. Dr. Meier will also visit with you in the preoperative area prior to surgery.

Once you are given an anesthetic and you are asleep, Dr. Meier will make incisions for your facelift. Through these incisions, Dr. Meier will elevate and tighten your neck and jawline as was discussed in the consultation. The surgery typically takes several hours to get it just right and give you the best facelift result.

Recovery

Recovery begins immediately after surgery. Nursing staff will make sure you are comfortable in the recovery room and apply ice to the neck and face. Dr. Meier uses no drains but places a bandage over your head, neck and ear regions. These will stay in place overnight until your first postoperative visit the following day. Unlike other surgeons, Dr. Meier never uses drains. This allows for better pain control and decreases risk of infection.

Bruising and swelling around the neck and face are common. To minimize bruising and swelling, use ice packs as instructed for a few days after the surgery and sleep with your head elevated on a couple of pillows. It is ok to shower the day after surgery and wash your hair. Clean the incisions as instructed and follow the instruction packet given to you regarding postoperative care.

Make sure you are getting the appropriate nutrition and rest for optimal healing. Dr. Meier recommends doing nothing strenuous and no bending over or heavy lifting for at least a week. Dr. Meier typically allows light exercise to begin a few weeks after surgery. To prevent blood clots and promote good circulation, walk around at least few times a day.

Facial Plastic Surgery in Florida

Your face is your most important feature as it gives both the first and lasting impression. Aesthetic style differs greatly between surgeons as it depends on not only acquired knowledge and experience, but also aesthetics and ability. Dr. Meier uses his expert knowledge, advanced skill and precision techniques to provide you with beautiful results and a natural appearance. That is his style in everything face so call our team for a consultation with Dr. Meier today.

FAQs

How long will I be swollen or bruised? Most bruising and swelling resolves in about 2 to 3 weeks.

When can I go back to school/work? Most patients go back to work around 3 weeks after facelift surgery. Bruising is typically gone and incisions are pink but well into the healing process. Makeup can be used at this point as well.

Is facelift surgery painful? All surgeries have some degree of discomfort. Dr. Meier provides you with pain medications to alleviate this. Most patients use pain medicines for a few days after surgery.

Can I drive myself home after the facelift? No. All patients will require someone to drive them home due to the effects of anesthesia and surgery.

I had a facelift done elsewhere and am unhappy with the result. What can I do? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Meier as he specializes in revision facelift surgery. Please see the revision facelift webpage for more information.