Department of Otolaryngology

Rhytidectomy (Face Lift)

The aging process is inevitable. Factors that contribute to this process include genetics (hereditary factors), gravity, sun exposure and personal habits. Changes in one's appearance, particularly in the face, are seen as a result of aging. Changes occur in the facial bony structure, along with the overlying muscles and skin, leading to the appearance of drooping or sagging skin, less defined jaw and neck-lines and deeper skin wrinkles.

A rhytidectomy, more commonly known as a facelift, is a type of facial plastic surgery that can be applied in selected people to help reduce these signs of aging. As with other types of facial plastic surgery, it cannot stop the aging process, but merely can restore a more youthful look to your face and neck.

Is A Facelift for You?
Realistic expectations and a good state of health are of utmost importance for someone considering facial plastic surgery. Age in itself is not a limiting factor; facelifts are performed on individuals in their 30's and 40's, but people in their 80's also have benefited from rhytidectomy. You should consider meeting with a qualified facial plastic surgeon to discuss your best options. He or she will take a complete medical history, as well as assess one's mental attitude toward surgery. Because a realistic attitude is so important, the nature of the surgical procedure, along with anticipated results and possible limitations will be discussed. During the consultation, your surgeon may discover other facial flaws that may need correction, and other procedures may be needed to reach the best facial harmony and appearance. For instance, one may be experiencing aging changes around the eyes as well as in the lower face. In this case, eyelid surgery or browlift may be recommended, in addition to the rhytidectomy. Another example is need for a simultaneous or staged skin resurfacing procedure to help remove the fine and deeper lines, especially around the lips and eyes, that facelift surgery may not correct. Dr. Armeni performs video-imaging to help demonstrate anticipated surgical results, which in turn, aids in developing realistic expectations.

Planning for Surgery
Once you and your surgeon have decided upon surgery, the surgeon will describe the technique(s) indicated, pros and cons of the surgery including potential complications, the anesthesia used, surgical facility options, and costs of the procedure. Photographs will be taken so that your surgeon can study your face; these are used in surgery as a reference point. Individual risk factors such as high blood pressure and cigarette smoking will be evaluated and appropriate recommendations will be made to help lead to the best surgical outcome. A written list of post-operative instructions will be provided to remind you of the "do's and don't's" following surgery, and will help prepare you for what to expect after surgery.

Surgery and Post-Operative Care
The rhytidectomy incisions are made in the hair or at the hairline just above and in front of the ear, then extended in front of the ear in a skin crease, around the ear lobe and in the crease behind the ear, then into the hair behind the ear. The aim is to camouflage or conceal the incisions. The facial skin is lifted from the underlying muscle and connective tissue, and it is actually the latter tissue that is resuspended and tightened to achieve long-lasting results. After redraping and trimming any excess skin, the incisions are closed with delicate sutures and staples, which are removed at 5-10 days following surgery. A dressing is applied to protect the operated area.

Some patients may experience discomfort following surgery, for which pain medication is prescribed. You may be asked to use cold compresses and to rest with your head elevated to help minimize bruising and swelling. Usually, the bruising lasts not more than two weeks, all the while decreasing in intensity. Your surgeon will generally recommend that you avoid strenuous activities for several weeks following surgery. Recovery generally takes two to three weeks, and determining the best time to return to work depends upon the amount of physical activity and public contact associated with your job, along with the amount of swelling and discoloration you develop. The average person may return to work or go out socially at two to three weeks after surgery, though there may be some variation in each individual case.

Rhytidectomy, and other forms of facial plastic surgery are becoming more popular to help improve signs of aging. These procedures can help individuals to look their best and to look as young as they feel. Video imaging is available to help you visualize the new profile that can be achieved through face lifting.