Facelift FAQs – Answering Top Questions

A facelift – also known as rhytidectomy – is a time-tested method for redefining the youthful beauty of our facial traits, reducing the signs of aging, and plumping up our skin. 

Of all the cosmetic procedures out there today, few are as misunderstood or maligned as the facelift. Here are a few answers to the most frequently asked questions about this popular procedure. You can always get all of your questions answered by getting in touch with Pinnacle Plastic Surgery.

7 Facelift FAQs You Need Answered 

Who is a good candidate for a facelift?

With over 234,374 facelift procedures performed just in 2020, this cosmetic surgery is one of the most popular in the US and globally. Thanks to its safety and personalization range, most people are good candidates for a facelift. 

During your consultation at Pinnacle Plastic Surgery, we’ll review your individual needs and recommend the best intervention for your goals. The ideal candidate will have still elastic skin, a well-defined bone structure, and a neckline that has just begun to sag.

Will I receive anesthesia for my facelift?

To make the whole procedure safer and more comfortable, facelifts are usually performed with general anesthesia. If you prefer to be sedated but not unconscious, you can speak to your surgeon about receiving intravenous sedation – or twilight sleep.

What should I expect from my facelift surgery?

Your surgeon at Pinnacle Dermatology will walk you through the procedure, facelift benefits, and facelift risks. However, generally, a small incision is performed in front of the ears. From here, the surgeon will lightly pull the muscle and tissue, thus tightening the skin and muscle structure. 

How long can the surgery take – and how long will the results last?

A facelift is performed as an overnight or outpatient operation. The length of the surgery depends on your situation but can last 1-3 hours. Once completed, the procedure benefits will endure for 7 to 10 years.

What results can I expect from my facelift?

One of the main misconceptions surrounding facelifts is that this operation leads to unnatural results. However, when performed by an expert surgeon, a facelift will offer natural, customized results. You and your surgeon can consider what follow-up or complementary surgeries to perform.

Will a facelift leave scars?

By their nature, facelifts require incisions. These incisions may result in tiny scars that are easily hidden along the natural contours of the face or under hair. Your surgeon will do everything they can to keep scarring to a minimum by making careful incisions in targeted locations where the natural contours of the face obscure them. 

What is recovery from a facelift like?

Your surgeon will tell you what to expect from the surgery’s recovery period. Generally, you should expect to have a period of downtime with some mild discomfort, bruising, and swelling around the incision areas. Other side effects include headaches and numbness.

The downtime period following a facelift usually lasts around two weeks after the procedure. After 4-6 weeks, you can resume exercise. You should avoid strenuous exercise and intense sun exposure for a few months after the surgery.

Get Your Questions Answered at Pinnacle Dermatology

Facelifts are among the most common cosmetic procedures performed globally. They are among the safest and most efficient alternatives for a youthful, healthy look – and yet,  the procedure can seem intimidating at first. At Pinnacle Plastic Surgery, our facelift procedures are entirely customized and designed to help you achieve your unique aesthetic goals. Get in touch today and get all of your questions answered.  

Facelifts are safe & effective with the professionals at Pinnacle Plastic!

Surgical cosmetic procedures can often feel like a big step, but they don’t have to be made hastily. If you’re interested in the facelift procedure, schedule your consultation with Dr. Klenke and her expert staff today. We’ll answer all your questions, decide on a procedure perfect for you, and help you understand the procedure step by step. Learn more by calling (843) 524-5550 today!