Facelift surgery is the ultimate form of facial rejuvenation. Unlike lasers, topical treatments, or injectable fillers, facelift procedures actually reposition the deeper structures of the face. By tightening these structures, the facial skin appears smoother. A facelift can help create a firm, even appearance along the jawline, cheeks, jowls, and, most importantly, the neck. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery (AAFPRS), facelift surgeries are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. Facelift surgery can be performed with minimally invasive techniques providing more youthful-looking results than ever before. This state-of-the-art method provides patients with natural results that are safe, long-lasting, and leave little to no scarring.
How do I know if a facelift / short-scar facelift is right for me?
Aging of the face is inevitable, and with time, the skin of the face and neck sag and become loose. Sun exposure, gravity, and genetics all contribute to facial skin changes as you age. Fine lines become wrinkles and gradually turn into deeper folds. The jawline softens into jowls, and excess skin starts to sag beneath the skin. If you are concerned about aging facial skin and a poorly defined jawline, then a facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, may be right for you. Several variations of facelift surgeries are available, such as short-scar facelifts, mini facelifts, deep plane facelifts, and more. Dr. Zimbler puts your health first and strives to help you achieve your goals with facelift surgery.
Facelift / short-scar facelift procedure:
During facelift surgery, incisions are camouflaged around the ear with precise placement and planning. The short-scar technique does not continue into the posterior hairline, so no scars are visible when your hair is pulled back. During short-scar facelift surgery, the deeper tissues of the face are repositioned and tightened. This allows for the removal of excess skin without tension, reducing a pulled or overdone look. In some facelift procedures, a small incision is required under the chin to tighten the muscles of the neck. A facelift procedure lasts several hours and is performed with sedation anesthesia at an accredited outpatient surgical facility. You may opt to combine a facelift with blepharoplasty or a browlift for a more complete facial rejuvenation.
Facelift / short-scar facelift recovery time:
Following a facelift or short-scar facelift, most patients experience the majority of healing in just 1 week. It is possible that some patients heal at a quicker rate and return to daily activities in just a few days after a facelift procedure. Private duty nursing is encouraged the first night of surgery, and all patients are seen by Dr. Zimbler the following morning in order for their dressing to be changed. Dr. Zimbler does not use drains after the procedure, making recovery more comfortable and quicker. The face and neck are particularly sensitive to swelling, and you may experience slight bruising. Incisions are placed around the creases of the ears, which leads scars to be barely visible. Sutures are removed several days after surgery. Makeup can be applied 1 week after facelift surgery.
As incisions heal, you may experience some numbness or itching at the surgical site. Any discomfort or pain can be treated with an oral medication from Dr. Zimbler. The application of cold ice packs can be comforting after your facelift surgery. We advise the use of compresses for the first few days to minimize bruising, swelling, and discomfort. You may shower 1 day after your facelift procedure, but we suggest to not use excessively hot water, as this may cause irritation. Light exercise can resume 2 weeks after surgery, but walking as a form of exercise may begin just 1 week after your facelift. Each patient heals at a different rate, but Dr. Zimbler can prescribe medications or supplements to reduce any pain or discomfort you may feel.
