Facial Rejuvenation

Plastic Surgery for Facial Rejuvenation: Facelift

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a facelift?

A facelift is a plastic surgery procedure intended to remove the visible signs of the natural aging process that is seen on the face. Facial aging is sometimes accelerated due to environmental factors and plastic surgery patients generally have facial plastic surgery beginning in their 30’s and 40’s. Genetics can also influence the aging process, and some people find that their physical appearance is much older than their chronological age. A facelift procedure can improve the most visible signs of the aging by eliminating excess fat, tightening the muscles beneath the skin of the neck, and removing excessive and sagging skin. Facial plastic surgery of this type does not “stop” the aging process but merely "sets the clock back." A facelift can smooth the appearance of some wrinkles but is more efficient at reducing the amount of loose skin or excess fatty tissue. A facelift can have very dramatic results depending on the patient, but individuals should be realistic about the results they can achieve through facial plastic surgery.

Who is an ideal plastic surgery candidate for a facelift?

Ideal candidates for facial plastic surgery are individuals who are healthy and well motivated. Some medical conditions such as high blood pressure, dry eyes and cigarette smoking can increase the risks of unwanted side effects from facelift surgery. During the initial facelift plastic surgery consultation, Dr. Guerra will be able to evaluate if you are a candidate for this plastic surgery procedure. When a person is unhappy with their aged appearance, which may include loose skin, wrinkles, excess fatty tissues, jowls with a loss of definition in the jaw line, or a deep line running from the corner of their nose to the corner of their mouth and under the chin, then this individual may be a good candidate for a facelift and other plastic surgery procedures to rejuvenate the face. A facelift can be done alone or in combination with eyelid surgery, forehead lift, chemical peel, neck lift and liposuction. Younger individuals having a mini incision facelift choose to undergo breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck and liposuction.

Are the results of a facelift permanent?

A facelift can drastically improve the appearance created by the natural aging process, but it does not “stop” the aging process. Plastic surgery for facial aging simply "sets the clock back." We do not expect any plastic surgery result to be “permanent”. However, since the skin and muscles are tightened and the excess fat tissue is permanently removed the results are usually long lasting. The aging process continues normally after plastic surgery of any kind and we expect that plastic surgery patients will require “tuck-up” procedures in the future. Most everyone can enjoy the results of facelift surgery for 5 to 10 years. During those 5 to 10 years after a facelift, the individual develops those signs of aging once again, but will have a more youthful appearance than if they had not had a facelift.

What is the recovery time of a facelift?

Recovery time after a facelift will vary depending on individual factors, but on average is 7 to 10 days of which everyday activities like work must be suspended until swelling and bruising resolves, and one can be presentable again. Most every plastic surgery patient can resume his or her normal activities in 1 to 2 weeks after this type of plastic surgery. If prolonged bruising is experienced, our aesthetician is skilled at camouflage techniques and can help in certain cases. Strenuous activities may not be allowed for 6 to 8 weeks after plastic surgery of the face. Dr. Guerra will properly instruct each patient based on individual recovery processes and basic guidelines and instructions for the recovery.

Will I have scars from the facelift?

Every plastic surgery procedure which requires the removal of excess skin will also require that incisions be made. Facelift incisions for the most part result in beautiful healing that is barely noticeable to the human eye. In some cases, facelift incisions can become “scars” that are made of thicker collagen tissue. In most cases, the plastic surgeon can control only some of the factors that lead to scar formation. To achieve the desired results, Dr. Guerra makes only minimal facelift incisions in well-concealed areas to minimize the chances of scar formation. The facelift incisions that are made for a facelift are located within the hairline and in the natural creases in and behind the ear. Some individuals who require more work may have an incision made underneath their chin as part of their facelift. For the most part, these facelift incisions eventually fade and become barely noticeable.

What are the risks of facelift surgery?

Every plastic surgery procedure is associated with certain risks and the ones associated with facelift surgery occur rarely. The most common undesired side effects of facelift surgery are bleeding and fatigue. Other more rare situations include nerve injuries to the facial muscles, delayed healing, scarring, numbness, and skin discoloration. Infection is extremely rare during a facelift. If bleeding occurs after a facelift, more plastic surgery may be required to control the situation. Bruising and swelling after facelift are usually temporary conditions. During a facelift consultation, Dr. Guerra will completely evaluate your tissues and medical history in order to assess your individual risks for facelift surgery. High blood pressure and cigarette smoking increases your risk of having problems after facial plastic surgery.

Will I be bruised after facelift surgery?

There will be some bruising that lasts 5 to 14 days after a facelift, so you may want to postpone any social engagements during this time. If bruising is prolonged beyond the usual period in your case, our aesthetician will be glad to demonstrate make-up techniques, which will allow you to return to your usual activities sooner. As a general rule of thumb, most facial plastic surgery patients return to work or play by 2 weeks after facelift.

How do I find a qualified facelift surgeon?

It is extremely important to choose a plastic surgeon that is qualified and knowledgeable to perform a facelift. It is best to look for a plastic surgeon that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Guerra is a diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which means he has completed years of extensive surgical training, including the necessary years required to be certified as a specialist in plastic surgery. Additionally, he has passed the qualifying examination to become Board Certified in Plastic Surgery. Dr. Guerra is a nationally acclaimed plastic surgeon known for several innovations in plastic surgery. He has received multiple awards for his contributions to plastic surgery of the breasts and eyelids. Dr. Guerra is a specialist in plastic surgery who has chosen to specialize in performing only those procedures which enhance a person’s physical appearance and well-being. Dr. Guerra’s goal is simply to be the best provider of aesthetic plastic surgery. He has chosen to combine his years of experience and highly specialized training with the latest technological advances in aesthetic plastic surgery. Facial plastic surgery is frequently performed at AB Guerra Plastic Surgery.

What is Sub-Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS)?

If you walk into a room full of plastic surgeons, you are likely to hear the term “SMAS.” The SMAS is a layer of extremely strong collagen tissue that is found beneath the skin and covers the facial muscles. Because the SMAS is stronger than skin, when a facelift is performed using this tissue, the results are more impressive and usually long lasting. This "deep layer" approach to facelift is an improvement over earlier skin techniques, but can increase the risk of facial nerve injury.

How long does a facelift last?

No one can say for sure. The clock is turned back but keeps on ticking. On average, a facelift should last five to ten years. In most circumstance, we expect that patients will require a “tuck-up” procedure in the future. Many plastic surgery patients never have a second lift, while others may desire further plastic surgery in seven to 15 years.

How long will I be out from work?

Most plastic surgery patients are able to return to work in a week or two. You should allow several weeks before major social engagements after a facelift.