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While non-surgical procedures such as injectables and lasers can certainly revitalize the face, no procedure will turn back the clock like a facelift. It allows the surgeon to take a fully comprehensive approach to your facial aging. A facelift is hands down the “gold standard” for facial rejuvenation.
Dr. Helen Allison performs both traditional and short-scar facelifts using the SMAS (submuscular aponeurotic system) technique. In the past, the downside of facelift surgery was that it could make a patient looked pulled or “done.” The SMAS – a thin layer of connective tissue or fascia located beneath the skin and fat but above the muscle – interconnects the face, mid-face, and neck muscles.
By working at this deep level, there is no pulling on the skin. Instead, the skin is re-draped over your newly tightened muscles. When this technique is used by a very experienced surgeon such as Dr. Allison, it can deliver a truly natural-looking result for both men and women.
A facelift is performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgery center.
Some patients may desire to stay overnight under a nurse’s supervision, while others may choose to go home with a caregiver such as a family member. You will need some help for the first few days. Dr. Helen Allison advises his patients to be extremely careful about lifting or exercise that will significantly elevate the heart rate or blood pressure during their first few weeks post-op.
You will be examined the morning following surgery, and we will assess your skin and soft tissues and remove any drains. You will come back in seven to ten days to have stitches removed.
It is normal to experience some bruising and swelling in the first stages of recovery. The swelling tends to reach its peak about three or four days following surgery, so be patient and kind to yourself as your body heals. Depending on how many procedures you had done, you may be swollen anywhere from one to four weeks. While your final results may take up to six months, you should notice excellent improvements in about two weeks
For most facelift patients, the incisions will be placed in the hairline and around the ear. However, with a short scar facelift, there are no incisions behind the ear. The advantage of this is that it, as the name implies, produces a shorter scar. While this sounds ideal, it does not necessarily mean a less visible scar. The disadvantage is that it only works for certain patients who can not address the neck.
Dr. Helen Allison is sensitive that no patient wants a visible scar; this is where her experience and years of training really come into play. She is meticulous in the making and closing of his incisions, creating well-hidden facelift scars.
There’s a natural desire in many of us to maintain the youthful vibrancy of our skin and to feel confident every time we look in the mirror. As age gracefully touches us, the skin, especially on the face, shows signs of the passing years. Enter the facelift, a popular cosmetic procedure that has helped many reclaim their radiant appearance.
A facelift, medically known as a rhytidectomy, is more than just a simple “lift.” It’s a comprehensive approach to reversing the most evident signs of aging on the face and neck. Here’s how it works:
The field of cosmetic surgery is ever-evolving. Today’s facelifts often incorporate advanced techniques and technologies. Some surgeons use endoscopic cameras for better visualization, while others may employ laser technology or ultrasound to achieve optimal results.
Here are signs that might indicate you’re a good candidate for a facelift:
Our skin, the body’s largest organ, changes over time. Skin elasticity reduces significantly with age due to sun exposure, genetics, and gravity. It can manifest as sagging skin, predominantly evident around the jawline and neck. The droopiness, often called ‘turkey neck’ or ‘jowls,’ can be more pronounced for some than others. If you find yourself perturbed by these changes, feeling that they don’t reflect how young you feel inside, a facelift could be the solution you’re seeking.
Age is often seen as a badge of life’s experiences, and while fine lines can add character, deep wrinkles can sometimes portray exhaustion or sadness. Most noticeable around the nose and mouth and extending to the outwards of the face, these wrinkles, often called ‘nasolabial folds’ or ‘marionette lines,’ can make one appear older than they feel. If you’ve tried serums, creams, and other treatments with little to no avail, a facelift might be the game-changer, addressing these wrinkles at their root.
Remember the plump cheeks and defined jawline from your younger years? Our face tends to lose fat with age, especially in the cheeks, leading to a hollow or sunken appearance. This loss of volume and contour can alter the overall shape and look of the face, making one appear more aged or tired. The beauty of a facelift is its ability to restore these lost contours, giving the face a rejuvenated appearance reminiscent of one’s youthful years.
Often referred to as the “full facelift,” this procedure is the most comprehensive. The surgeon works to rejuvenate the face holistically, focusing not just on the skin but also on the underlying muscles.
The middle region of the face often shows aging signs sooner than other areas. A mid-facelift specifically targets this zone to restore its youthful vitality.
As the name suggests, this is a scaled-down version of the traditional facelift, ideal for those who require minor corrections.
Procedure Highlights: The surgeon works to tighten underlying tissues using smaller incisions, typically around the ear. The mini-facelift offers a quicker recovery period and is less invasive, making it a popular choice for many.
Before the actual procedure, a thorough consultation with your surgeon is crucial. It is where individual needs, goals, and concerns are discussed. Your surgeon will assess your facial structure, skin elasticity, and overall health to determine the best approach for you.
Before the surgery, patients are often advised to:
Most facelifts are performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you’re entirely unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. In some cases, local anesthesia with sedation might be used. Your anesthetist will monitor your vitals continuously to ensure safety.
The surgeon will make incisions, typically starting at the temples, running down in front of the ear, circling behind the earlobe, and then into the hairline. The exact nature and length of the incision depend on the type of facelift and the targeted areas.
Once the incisions are made:
The tightened skin is then carefully draped over the reshaped facial contours. The surgeon uses sutures to close the incisions. Some surgeons might use skin glue or clips. Small drainage tubes might be placed to prevent fluid buildup, depending on the procedure’s extent.
Your surgeon will likely prescribe medications to alleviate pain and prevent infections. It’s paramount to take them as directed and not to self-medicate or mix them with other drugs unless advised by a healthcare professional.
The initial weeks following your facelift are a time for rest. Engaging in vigorous activities can exacerbate swelling or even cause complications. Light walks can help improve circulation, but consult your surgeon before resuming your regular exercise routine.
Propping yourself up, especially during the first week, can significantly reduce swelling. Use extra pillows or a recliner to ensure your head remains raised, even during sleep.
A gentle skincare routine tailored to post-operative care can enhance healing. Avoid products with harsh chemicals and focus on gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens. Your surgeon may also recommend specific products to minimize scarring.
While rare, complications can arise. Watch for excessive redness, unexpected discharge, or increased pain. If something doesn’t seem right, contact your surgeon immediately.
These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor your healing progress, address any concerns, and guide you on the subsequent stages of recovery.
The best defense against these risks is a seasoned surgeon. Here’s why:
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Dr. Helen Allison in known in her field for her mastery of surgical techniques to enhance and restore face, breast, body and soul.