How Should I Prepare for a Facelift?

Have you noticed that you no longer see the same results from your skincare routine? Signs of aging, like lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin, can be too much for non-surgical treatments to address. A facelift is considered the “gold standard” procedure for restoring a more defined, youthful face. This procedure lifts and firms your skin and underlying structures for a naturally rejuvenated appearance.

What is a Facelift or Rhytidectomy?

If your signs of aging bother you, a facelift or rhytidectomy offers a solution. This procedure addresses concerns such as wrinkles, creases around the nose or mouth, sagging skin, and loss of definition. Your Specialty Aesthetics Surgery surgeons specialize in facial procedures and use their intensive knowledge of facial anatomy to provide natural-looking results that may prompt people to observe that you look refreshed.

How Should I Prepare for a Facelift?

Your treatment team will provide you with instructions for facelift preparation. Your surgeon will perform a physical examination and may order lab testing before scheduling your procedure.

Manage Medications

Several types of medications and supplements can affect you during surgery. Your surgeon may suggest that you stop taking some supplements and stop or modify some medications to prevent bleeding and other complications. List all supplements and medications, even occasional ones, when discussing with your surgeon.

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and alcohol affect your body in ways that can make healing after surgery more difficult. Your surgeon will instruct you to quit smoking for several weeks before and after your procedure. Avoid alcohol for several days prior to your surgery date and until your surgeon approves it.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to prepare on the day of your rhytidectomy. You may receive a special soap to wash your hair and face. You will also be instructed to arrive with no products or makeup on your face.

Arrange Time Off

Finalize your arrangements for time off from work and other activities. You may also want to plan for someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours to help you with activities. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations when scheduling your time off, and make sure you have plenty of time to heal.

How is a Facelift Performed?

Your Specialty Aesthetics Surgery surgeon performs your rhytidectomy under general anesthesia. The procedure may take from one to five hours, depending on the details of the surgical plan. Your surgeon makes small incisions hidden in your hairline and around your ears to lift and tighten the skin. They will also lift the layers of muscle and connective tissue underneath, restoring facial definition and maintaining a naturally youthful appearance.

Your surgeon can modify your facelift as needed to accommodate your particular concerns. A mid-facelift is a less invasive procedure that provides lift and tightening for those who do not need a full lower facelift. Each facelift is a customized procedure that your surgeon carefully plans before your surgery.

What is Recovery Like After a Facelift?

Most people experience some bruising, swelling, and soreness after a facelift. You can expect to feel more like yourself within about a week. You will receive instructions that tell you how to care for your incisions and help them heal quickly. People with low-activity jobs or with modified activities can usually return to work in one to two weeks. The swelling will continue to resolve over the next few weeks. Most people can resume their exercise routine after four weeks.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

A facelift is an excellent choice for healthy adults who want to address moderate to severe signs of aging. Good candidates will have reasonable expectations and are in overall good health. Facelift candidates usually range in age from their 40s to 60s, but younger and older individuals can benefit from the procedure. The only upper age limits are your health and the condition of your skin.

Which Procedures Can I Have With a Facelift?

A facelift addresses a range of concerns related to the mid and lower face. Many people have another procedure at the same time to achieve an overall more youthful, sculpted look. A facelift is commonly combined with a neck lift for a slimmer, more defined profile. You may also choose to have a brow lift to improve the upper part of the face or an eyelid lift to brighten and restore your eyes.

How Long Do Facelift Results Last?

Your facelift results will last for many years. However, a facelift cannot stop signs of aging from progressing. The improvements you have made will keep you looking younger, but you will notice increased collagen loss and skin laxity over time. Non-surgical treatments and consistent sunscreen use can keep your results looking firm and smooth.

Take the Next Step – Request a Consultation

Want to learn more about facelifts? Schedule your consultation online or by calling Specialty Aesthetic Surgery at (212) 737-8700. We look forward to working with you!

Specialty Aesthetic Surgery serves the greater NYC metro area.

About Our Surgeons

Bruce Moskowitz is an experienced and board-certified oculoplastic surgeon. His practice encompasses all areas of oculoplastic cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He has a well-known reputation for revision surgery, and a large portion of his practice comes from other colleagues to revise sub-optimal outcomes.

Grigoriy Mashkevich is an experienced and double-board certified facial plastic surgeon. He belongs to a highly select group of surgeons with a focused specialization in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the nose, face, and neck.

Dr. Anna Frants is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is experienced in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Her areas of expertise include surgery of the face, neck, nose, eyelids, eyebrows, and ears.

*Individual results may vary