FACE LIFT
Facelift (rhytidectomy) surgery is a common cosmetic treatment designed to improve disconcerting signs of aging, facial imbalances, and excess skin. The signs of aging are more visible in the face than anywhere else in the body. As we age, fat compartments descend from the cheeks, skin loosens, and the defined contours of the jawline soften and are replaced with jowls and excess skin.
Women and men who are frequently discomforted by the tiredness in their appearance, the deep wrinkles around their mid-face, and the deep lines around their jowls may want to consider facelift surgery. Dr. Dan Shell ensures complete customization when formulating a plan for your facelift. During your consultation, Dr. Shell will create a strategy for best approaching your face and neck regions, as they can typically be treated together. The results of facelift surgery can lead to your face appearing as if years were reversed for a more youthful appearance, along with more proportionate-looking features and elegant contours.
Dr. Shell performs facelift surgery in Northern Mississippi, helping to change lives for the better.
Am I a Candidate for a Facelift?
Ideal candidates for a facelift include women and men who have realistic expectations and attainable goals, understanding both the capabilities and limitations of their treatment. Patients should note that although the general objectives of all facelift treatments are typically the same, each patient’s facelift surgery is highly unique to their standards of beauty, and the amount of correction Dr. Shell applies to specific areas.
Candidates for facelift surgery are in good health with no underlying health conditions that could impair healing. Smoking should be stopped at least four weeks prior to treatment, as this increases your chance of risk. Healthy blood flow can significantly lower the risk of complications. During the consultation, Dr. Shell will work in detail to assess whether you are an appropriate candidate for facelift surgery. If necessary, Dr. Shell will also discuss candidacy for combined treatments, such as a neck lift or tailored nose surgery.
Will Insurance Cover My Facelift Surgery?
Insurance companies typically do not cover facelift surgery as it is an elective cosmetic procedure. However, there are multiple avenues for financing. During your initial consultation, Dr. Shell will evaluate your medical history and take measurements. He will estimate the amount of tissue to be adjusted and provide an estimate for your treatment that can be considered when you speak with a financing company regarding your qualification and payment options. Once a decision is made with the company you finance with, we will work with you on scheduling a convenient date.
How Is a Facelift Performed?
Facelift surgery begins with the appropriate administration of anesthesia. Dr. Shell will make small, indiscernible incisions around the hairline and behind the ear for complete concealment. Then, excess fat and tissue will be removed from the lower two-thirds of the face, and the remaining skin, muscle, and fat are lifted and tightened.
Dr. Shell will gently redistribute and reposition fat and muscle tissue in the face, jowls, and neck. The skin will be re-draped over the uplifted contours, and excess skin will be trimmed away. Stitches are required to close the incisions, and they will be removed once healing is complete.
What Will My Facelift Recovery Be Like?
Depending on the patient’s medical history and length of travel, they may be discharged home or stay overnight.
First Several Days
Your face will be bandaged and dressed. The bandages stay in place overnight and are removed the next day. During this time, the patient is advised to sleep with the head above heart level and refrain from leaning over. After the bandages are removed, the patient will be provided a removable compression garment. Patients may shower and gently wash their hair after the dressings are removed.
Patients may return to light-duty work after five to seven days. Patients are restricted for strenuous activity and any lifting greater than 10 pounds for three weeks.
Patients often return to work and more non-strenuous activities after two weeks.
Weeks After Surgery
The patient is seen again one week after surgery to remove sutures. Patients will notice a gradual improvement in soreness and a greater tolerance for physical activity. The majority of patients can return to work by two weeks after surgery. Patients are instructed to refrain from any strenuous cardiovascular exercise for three weeks.
Months After Surgery
The patient is seen for a final visit a few months after surgery. At this point, the face has not only fully healed but adjusted completely to the new contours, adjustments, and elevations made to enhance the face. “After” pictures are taken at this time. The patient has fully recovered by this time and is released with information on maintaining their results.
What Will My Facelift Results Be Like?
Facelift results are considered long lasting. Patients can expect their face to be substantially smoother with flattering contours. While Dr. Shell helps you establish a restored and balanced face, the human body is still susceptible to aging, facial volume fluctuations, hormonal factors, and gravity. To increase the probability of stable, long-standing results, patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy diet and exercise program.
FAQ
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Are facelift results permanent?
The results of a facelift will be long-lasting, but not permanent. Your skin will still be susceptible to the aging process. Over time, your natural aging process may result in additional sagging, and wrinkling may appear in the treatment area. In ideal circumstances, your skin will benefit from the effects of your facelift for ten years or more.
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What are some of the risks associated with facelift surgery?
Facelift surgery is generally considered safe, and complications are rare. However, you should be aware of the possible risks. Dr. Shell and his staff will be available to discuss these risks with you. Some potential risks associated with facelift surgery may include nerve damage, infection, and prolonged healing, especially for patients who smoke.
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Why should I choose Dr. Shell for my facelift?
During your consultation, Dr. Shell will listen carefully to your concerns, ensuring that all treatments are customized to meet your goals. His practice uses the latest technology in a comfortable and confidential setting. Dr. Shell is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Interested in a Facelift in Oxford, Mississippi?
Dr. Dan Shell is a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience performing facelift surgery. If you are considering a facelift, Dr. Shell would be privileged to sit down with you and carefully explain the facelift process in detail. Shell Plastic Surgery proudly serves patients in and around Northern Mississippi. Please fill out our contact form or call (662) 236-6465 to set up a consultation today.