 |

|
Facial Surgical Procedures
An individual’s identity is often primarily determined by the face—its structure, overall appearance, and expressions. As such, age-related changes
that can alter the appearance of the face may make an individual feel as if their identity has changed over time. Changes can occur in the upper, mid,
and lower portions of the face; however, changes to the lower third of the face are often the most readily apparent. These changes may include the
development of deep lines in the cheeks and around the mouth, loose, excess skin in the cheeks, jaw line, and neck, and banding around the neck.
Most often performed on individuals ranging from forty five to fifty five years of age, a lower facelift can help to reduce the appearance of deep
facial wrinkles, sagging jowls, and sagging and banding in the neck, restoring a firmer, more youthful appearance.
How Does a Lower Facelift Work?
There are several different types of facelift—each specialized to treat different regions of the face. For example, the lower facelift is usually performed
to rejuvenate the lower portion of the face. Age-related changes in the upper and middle region of the face are usually corrected with a forehead lift and
mid facelift, respectively. During a lower facelift, the underlying connective and muscle tissues known as the SMAS are lifted, facial skin is tightened,
and excess skin is removed. It is important to realize that a lower facelift cannot correct signs of aging in the forehead or around your eyes, nor can it
address fine lines or uneven skin tone and texture. Dr. Gabriel will help you determine which procedure is best for you, and whether an additional procedure
such as eyelid surgery or skin resurfacing would produce more global facial rejuvenation.
Lower Facelift Recovery
While some physicians prefer not to use bandages, others may apply a loose-fitting wrap or a compression garment to facilitate healing. A compression garment
is tight-fitting, and will help to reduce swelling by preventing fluid build up, as well as provide comfort and support as you heal. Although loose bandages
may be removed in several days, compression garments are often worn for a few weeks. As with any surgical procedure, you will likely experience some pain,
bruising, and swelling, most of which will subside within a few weeks. If a surgical drain was used, it will usually be removed within a day following surgery,
and non-absorbable sutures may be removed in seven to ten days. You will likely feel well enough to return to work in one to two weeks; however you should
avoid strenuous activity such as heavy lifting or exercise for up to three weeks to allow your body sufficient time to heal.
How Does a Mid Facelift Work? click here to see procedure in 3-D
There are several different types of facelift—each specialized to treat different regions of the face. For example, the mid facelift is usually performed to
rejuvenate the middle portion of the face. Age-related changes in the upper and lower region of the face are usually corrected with a forehead lift and lower
facelift, respectively. In addition, sagging and puffy eyelids can be addressed with eyelid surgery. During a mid facelift, the underlying tissues are tightened,
and fat pads that give the face shape and volume are shifted upward to restore a firmer, more youthful appearance. It is important to realize that a mid facelift
cannot correct loose skin in the neck or along the jaw line, nor can it address fine lines or uneven skin tone and texture. Dr. Gabriel will help you determine
which procedure is best for you, and whether an additional procedure such as eyelid surgery or skin resurfacing would produce more global facial rejuvenation.
Mid Facelift Recovery
While some physicians prefer not to use bandages, others may apply a loose-fitting wrap or a compression garment to facilitate healing. A compression garment is
tight-fitting, and will help to reduce swelling by preventing fluid build up, as well as provide comfort and support as you heal. Although loose bandages may be
removed in several days, compression garments are often worn for a few weeks.
As with any surgical procedure, you will likely experience some pain, bruising, and swelling, most of which will subside within a few weeks. If a surgical drain
was used, it will usually be removed within a day following surgery, and non-absorbable sutures may be removed in seven to ten days. You will feel well enough to
return to work in one to two weeks; however, you should avoid strenuous activity such as heavy lifting or exercise for up to three weeks to allow your body sufficient time to heal.
Additional Facial Procedures
Content courtesy of plasticsurgery.org
|