FACE LIFT (Rhytidectomy)
As we age, we start to notice changes among the face. The position, volume and skin are three important factors in the visible signs of age. As time goes by, the skin begins to loosen on the face and neck. Lines appear at the corners of the eyes. Thin forehead lines become creases and then, eventually, deeper folds. The jawline sags into jowls, and beneath the chin, a double chin or vertical folds appear at the front of the neck. Genes, lifestyle, gravity, and sun exposure contribute to the aging of the face. As the aging begins to show, it is obvious why the face lift has become the third most desired facial plastic surgical procedure.
Am I a suitable candidate for a face lift?
Sagging facial features such as heavy jowls, deep nasolabial folds (smile/laugh lines), and visible dissection between lower eyelid and cheek are signs of ageing.
I’ve heard of many different types of face lifts. What kind of face lift does the Yeung Institute do?
Face lifts are performed with different techniques. Depending upon extent of needs different style face lifts can be reviewed. Dr. Yeung has been performing Endoscopic procedures for many years in Houston. Understanding the way the anatomy works and how aging plays into that is very important. Endoscopic Facelift is a popular style of Mid-Face lift that is minimally invasive. This face lift addresses only the upper cheek area. The lower face lift is not done endoscopically; however it is done as a Deep Plane Face lift. At the Yeung Institute, we do not take short cuts and this is why we are able to achieve long lasting and natural results. Dr. Yeung repositions the muscle layer beneath the skin, and then redrapes the skin flap back over the repositioned muscle to leave minimal tension on skin and achieve seamless scars.
Where will my scars appear after a face lift?
Depending upon what type of face lift, the scars will be in different locations. For an Endoscopic Mid-Face lift you may have two small incisions in the hairline relative to the areas surrounding the outer eye brows and up.
For the lower face lifts and non-Endoscopic Mid Facelifts, the scars will be located along the ear, within the creases to conceal visibility. An extended incision will be made behind the ear and into the hairline about an inch long. Dr. Yeung uses techniques to preserve the hairline and keep it natural looking.
How long does the face lift procedure take?
Most face lifts are done simultaneously with other procedures, resulting in varying times. A face lift alone can take 4-6 hours depending upon the style. Time is a concern to many for health reason involving anesthesia or simply for financial reasons. See the Anesthesia link for frenquently asked questions regarding our procedures. Anesthesia is a cost separate of the other fees for surgery. If cost is a factor, we can give you the Anesthesia Group’s information to see what financing options are available to you.
What risks or complications are involved in a face lifts?
Every surgical procedure involves a certain amount of risk and it is important that you understand these risks and the possible complications associated with them. In addition, every procedure has limitations. An individual’s choice to undergo a surgical procedure is based on the comparison of the risk to potential benefit. Although the majority of patients do not experience these complications, you should discuss each of them with Dr. Yeung to make sure you understand all possible consequences of facelift surgery.
Any surgical procedure requires smokers and use of NSAIDS to be eliminated two weeks prior to surgery. A skin care regimen will be recommended prior to prep the skin for surgery. All detailed surgical requirements will be reviewed during your comprehensive pre-operative appointment.
How long is the Recovery after a face lift?
Recovery and downtime will vary upon exact facelift procedure. Typical downtime with most procedures is 10-14 days. You will take up to a year to completely heal, however at 2 weeks most are presentable.
How much does a Face lift cost?
All procedures are personalized for your needs specifically. To better assist you financially in achieving your goals, we offer payments plans on behalf of Care Credit, Chase, and Capitol One. Discounts may apply to cash payments. Arrangements will be discussed during the financial consultation.
