Full Facelift Surgery

Time marches on, as the old saying goes. Unfortunately for some of us, time seems as though it has marched right across our faces. And yes, time and gravity contribute to wrinkles, sags, and bags. If you have added sun exposure to the list, the aging can be amplified. Some of us feel as though we look older, tired or angry all the time. Pretty soon, we may not even recognize our own reflection in the mirror.

While we cannot stop the aging process, facelifts can be an effective tool against the visual signs of aging.  Both women and men are choosing to undergo facelifts to smooth and tighten the skin on the forehead, cheek, and jawline.

What is a facelift?

Facelifts eliminate the excess skin that creates wrinkles, sags, and bags. Incisions are made in the hairline, around and behind the ears, or under the chin, that allows the physician to strengthen and reposition muscles as well as pull the skin back to create the smooth, youthful look.

Am I a candidate for a facelift?

Facelifts often create a significant improvement in one's face. Facelifts improve the following symptoms: 

• Nasolabial folds — the deep lines that run from the side of the nostrils to the corner of the mouth

• Jowls or loose skin along the jawline

• Sagging or deeply wrinkled cheeks

• Loose skin and wrinkles at the neck

Facelifts, however, do not treat the eye area - excess skin, bags, and fatty deposits around the eye and eyelid. 

About the facelift procedure

All cosmetic procedures begin with a consultation with Dr. Volshteyn to discuss your medical history, current health and any medications you may take, as well as your goals and expectations for the surgery. Dr. Volshteyn will clearly explain any possible risks and complications as well as give you pre-op and post-op instructions.

The surgery itself is performed under a general or twilight anesthesia in our office surgery center or hospital. Whether or not you need to spend the night will depend on how long your surgery lasts, your health and your recovery.

In the days that follow your surgery, you will probably experience some bruising and swelling, which should peak about three days after the procedure and then begin to improve. Pain medication can be provided if you experience discomfort. You may have a drainage tube for any post operative oozing. You may also need to sleep with your head elevated for several days. Normally, sutures are removed about five to ten days after the surgery.

What are the potential risks and complications of a facelift procedure?

All surgeries come with some level of risks and complications. Some risks include bleeding, infection, and numbness. Dr. Volshteyn will go over all risks and complications with you during your consultation. It is important for you to follow all of your physician's instructions, both before and after your surgery. Following instructions will help your recovery process as well as minimize the possibility of complications.

What can I expect after a facelift procedure?

While you may focus on all of the benefits that a facelift can give you, it is just as important to give yourself the adequate time to heal. Follow your physician's instructions closely and don't try to push yourself too quickly back into all of your normal activities. You should be back to work two weeks after the surgery and back to most of your normal activities after a month. However, even though you will be back to your normal life, your healing process will continue on for about 6 to 12 months. So while you will look good in a month, you'll continue to see improvements over the course of a year.

Dr. Boris Volshteyn, our board certified plastic surgeon, specializes in facelift procedures. Please call our office today to schedule your consultation 732-641-3350