About Facelift Surgery
Port St. Lucie, FL plastic surgeon Dr. S. Darrell Lee provides a full variety of facial cosmetic surgery. One of the most popular surgeries at Lee Plastic Surgery and Laser Center is a facelift. This procedure concentrates on specific sections of the face to address loose skin and sagging fad pads to create a younger, softer appearance. Depending on your unique concerns, a facelift can focus on the eyes, the cheeks and mid-face, the bottom portion including the jowls, neck, and more for an all-over youthful look. The facelift method used depends on your goals, the condition of your skin, the amount of laxity present, age, lifestyle, and other influences. Some men and women may be candidates for a full facelift, while others may only want a mid-face lift. Dr. Lee is a skilled surgeon who has a complete understanding of the complex anatomy of a facelift surgery. The goal is to create a natural look that's soft and beautiful.
Ideal Candidates
Candidates for a facelift have visible lines and facial wrinkles whether it be on the entire face or on the upper, mid, or lower sections. Facelift surgery can address many aspects depending on your unique needs. It is important to understand that age does not necessarily define the appropriate time to have a facelift. There are so many factors and concerns, and also numerous lift methods depending on what is being corrected. The facelift chosen will vary for patients who are 40 years old versus those in their 50s and 60s. Skin elasticity is one of the most important factors in the planning process. Facelift patients should be in good physical health and refrain from smoking, and also have realistic expectations.
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Surgical Technique
Depending on your individual needs, there are a number of facelifts available. Some facelifts rejuvenate the upper portion of the face, while others focus on the middle and lower. Furthermore, some procedures are slightly more invasive and intricate than others. It is also common for some men and women to have a brow lift, forehead lift, or fillers and BOTOX to enhance their results. A few of the more common facelift methods include:
- Full Facelift
Considered the gold standard, the full facelift generally places an incision along the hairline, under the sideburns, and then extends around the ear, reaching to the back of the hairline. The underlying facial tissues and fat pads are gently pulled and tightened to produce a lifted look, which softens excessive lines and wrinkles. The traditional facelift is reserved for men and women who have signs of advanced aging. With this lift, many techniques may be combined, including upper or lower blepharoplasty to enhance the eyes or a neck lift for the lower region. - Mid-Facelift
Using a similar technique to the mini lift, the mid-facelift (cheeks) focuses on the sagging near the cheekbones and the upper jaw. This lift works nicely for those who seek improvement to the lower two-thirds of the face, including the jowls. - Mini Facelift
During a mini facelift, a small incision is made around the ears to lift the skin, which affects the mid to lower face. This method creates subtle improvements that look natural.
What to Expect
Regardless of the facelift method you have, the ultimate goal is to create a subtle and natural outcome. The majority of facelift surgeries are performed with general anesthesia. The duration of the treatment depends on the level of invasiveness, and if other treatments were combined. After surgery, there will be swelling and puffiness, some moderate soreness, and discomfort, which can be helped by pain prescription medication. Most patients look and feel normal after 2 – 4 weeks. You will see a softer, more youthful appearance. In all, the face will be slightly lifted and rejuvenated.
The Right Facelift for You
Facelift surgery can take years off your face and create a fresh look. Today, there are many options for surgery based on your personal needs and goals. This treatment is designed to gracefully help walk you through each passing year looking natural. To learn more, we invite you to call Lee Plastic Surgery and Laser Center to schedule an appointment at our Port St. Lucie or Jupiter locations.