The idea of getting a facelift can be a little daunting. Yes, it’s a more permanent solution than just Botox or dermal fillers, lasting years rather than months. However, it’s far more invasive. Nonetheless, if you are noticing changes in your face as a result of aging, specifically laxity in the neck or jowls with the loss of a distinct jawline, it may be something you want to consider.
Facelifts have come a very long way. When they were originally being performed, it simply involved tightening the skin. Today, however, a facelift involves tightening not only the skin but also the underlying tissue and muscles.
Will I look different?
A good facelift shouldn’t make you look like an altogether different person. Quite the contrary, you should look more refreshed, younger, and natural, as though you just returned from a weekend of rest and relaxation.
The best candidates are those who, though they obviously have some facial aging, still have some skin elasticity. Typically, the ideal candidates are in their 40s to their 70s. You must be in good health and have realistic expectations for what you will accomplish with the facelift.
A recent study determined that patients under the age of 50 who undergo “maintenance facelifts” have the best long-term results. The study conducted by Drs. Tom S. Liu and ASPS Member Surgeon John Q. Owsley of California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, noted that younger patients had higher and more consistent satisfaction scores when they went in for their follow-up appointments. When comparing the follow-up photos from these patients versus the older patients, it was noted that the patients who underwent facelift surgery before age 50 had “remarkable maintenance of their youthful appearance.”
Regardless of your age, whether or not you get the natural results you’re looking for is entirely dependent upon the skill of the surgeon. If you think you might want a facelift, schedule an appointment with a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in facial surgery. During the consultation, discuss your goals and let him know why you want to make changes. After reviewing your current health and medical history, the surgeon will discuss your options. It may be that a facelift isn’t the best option for you or that a less invasive procedure will allow you to reach your goals. If you’re located in the Tampa Bay area, we would be happy to set up a free consultation to discuss your goals.
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