What Is a Facelift?
A facelift is a common surgical procedure that tightens lax skin on the face, neck, and jowls to address the loss of elasticity and muscle tone. Age weakens the deeper muscles and tissues of the face while gravity pulls at the outlying skin. This results in the loss of facial fullness along the cheekbones causing loose skin along the chin and jawline.
A facelift addresses these issues by removing and lifting excess skin. When done properly, your facelift can help your neck look smoother, restore a youthful neck contour, minimize jowls, eliminate deep folds near your nose, and help you look refreshed and rejuvenated! For an even greater result, your plastic surgeon may also recommend facial fillers as a facelift is designed to tighten but does not add volume to your cheeks. A skilled plastic surgeon will often times recommend a combination of procedures based on your desired outcome.
Preparation
The most important factor in your facelift preparation is finding the best plastic surgeon to perform your procedure. Screen potential candidates by looking for the following qualifications:
- Board Certified in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Board Certified in General Surgery
- Offers before and after pictures of past facelift patients
- Has positive reviews online
- Spends time in the consultation understanding your needs
Dr. Marc Polecritti, the Double Board Certified plastic surgeon who founded The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, meets all of these qualifications and many more. By working with a surgeon like Dr. Polecritti, you can trust that your facelift will be handled with the personalized attention you deserve.
Other important elements of facelift preparation include adjusting certain prescriptions and supplements and maintaining a healthy diet. It is also recommended that you stop smoking prior to a facelift to prevent infection and promote good healing. It will be necessary for you to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from your surgery. Your surgeon should go over all of this in your consultation.
Recovery Time
Recovery from a facelift isn’t nearly as complex as many patients expect. When handled properly, you can enjoy a comfortable and speedy recovery. Your first postoperative week is the most important. It’s helpful to perform low-key activities like light housework to keep your blood flowing through recovery.
It’s also essential to follow daily incision care as outlined by Dr. Polecritti. As long as you give enough attention to your post-op care, your swelling and bruising will subside after the first week and you’ll be ready to return to work and light exercise after about two weeks.
To learn more about the facelift procedure, call (352) 606-4754 to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Marc Polecritti at The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery in Spring Hill, Florida. An experienced and skilled plastic surgeon will make all the difference in your results!
