Rhytidectomy

Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Wellness and Health

The traditional full face lift is not usually necessary in someone under the age of 55 or 60. The traditional face lift involves incisions made all along and within the hairline. Excess skin is removed, the skin is gently pulled and tightened, and incisions are closed with sutures. Years ago, this sometimes resulted in the "tight" or "pulled" look that made the face lift the butt of some mean jokes.

As we age, wrinkles and sagging skin affect different parts of the face at different times. It’s more common these days to treat specific areas of the face, not the entire face. Depending on the degree of aging, often having surgery on the mid-face region, from the eyes to the mouth, or the lower face, from the mouth to the chin, is enough to provide the subtle change that makes all the difference in the world.

If you are in your late 30s or 40s, even in your 50s, a partial face lift works well. A partial can be either a "mid-face lift" or a "lower face lift" and often gives wonderful results without the expense or commitment of a full face lift. A small incision is made, sometimes in front of the ear, within the ear, or behind the ear, and a small area of skin is lifted. There is a shorter recovery time of four to five weeks.

Many people choose to have more than one procedure done to their face at a time. Eyelid surgery or a neck lift is often included, and ensures a more natural and balanced look.

Some plastic surgeons who perform these partial face lifts call them by various names such as a quick lift or, sometimes, a weekend lift (not to be confused with the non-surgical weekend lift). These are catchy marketing phrases that only confuse prospective patients but get the doctors on television.