Facelift Surgery

Serving Chattanooga, Tennessee

ome of the first signs of aging appear in the face. These might have been hastened by sun exposure, our genetics, or some bad habits. But the changes appear gradually-- almost unnoticed-- until one day, that person staring back at you from the mirror definitely does not look as good as you feel. If this is the case, a facelift may help.

A facelift tightens the loose skin of the face. It improves the jawline and cheekbones, as well as recontouring the sagging, fatty neck. As always, the best candidates for aesthetic surgery are people who are in good health. During your consultation, your specific cosmetic goals, and how they can realistically be achieved will be discussed. Your surgeon will also point out how any medical problems, medications, or habits could impact your candidacy for surgery.

Facelifts are typically performed as outpatient surgeries, with sedation or a general anesthesia. The incisions for a facelift are generally in front of the ear, and pass discreetly into the scalp behind the ear. Your surgeon can provide some photographs to illustrate how this method is used to tailor the soft tissues of the face back into their youthful position. Computer imaging can also help in visualizing possible postoperative results. Modern facelifts treat not only the skin, but also the underlying musculature to insure staying power. Other technologies, which have served to improve the procedure, include liposuction and fibrin glue technique. These allow for precision refinements and improvement in the postoperative course.

Facelift is a significant surgical intervention. However, thousands are performed safely every year. It is important to discuss with your surgeon the general and specific risks of facelift, as well as any elective procedure you contemplate.

After surgery, your face will be wrapped in a bandage to reduce swelling and maintain the position of the elevated skin and muscle. Discomfort is typically minimal and well controlled by oral pain medication. Early postoperative convalescence is marked by improvement in swelling and bruising. At the end of about ten days, all stitches have been removed and support of the operative site is maintained with a lycra chin strap. Makeup can be worn as soon as you are comfortable enough to apply it. As time passes the puffiness subsides and any numbness in the face diminishes. Throughout the healing period activity is limited and sun exposure is avoided.

Ultimately, facelift is a very reliable surgery. If you are like most people, you will be very pleased with your refreshed look. Although the healing may take some time, you can expect the end result to be worth the wait. Several factor contribute to how long the results last. Even though the aging process continues, if we do our best to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid excessive sun exposure, the results of facelift surgery will be pleasing for years to come.

The Plastic Surgery Group, P.C., in Chattanooga, Tennessee offers the latest plastic surgery procedures, including face lift surgery. For more information on the plastic surgery procedures we offer, visit our plastic surgery procedures page or call our plastic surgery staff at (423) 756-7134 or (800) 634-3334. You can also e-mail us your questions and we will be in touch with you shortly.