Facelift
RHYTIDECTOMY
Overview
- A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the face and neck
- Skin and a layer of fat on the face and neck is removed and/or tightened
- Underlying fascia, which loses elasticity with aging process, is also tightened
- Scars are well concealed in the hairline and behind your ear
- Can be combined with other procedures such as brow lift, eyelid lift or a lip lift to rejuvenate other areas of the face
- Fat grafting/transfer or filler can be utilized to replace the lost fatty volume also
Facelift Benefits
- Restores the youthful contours of the face
- Improves signs of aging, such as sagging of the skin, deepening of the fold lines between the nose and corner of the mouth, fat that has fallen or disappeared, jowls developed in the cheeks and jaw, and loose skin and excess fat that can appear as a double chin
- Results will look natural and will last up to 10 years
Consultation
- During your facelift consultation, Dr. Cho will assess your current medical history, including medications, vitamins and herbal supplements you take, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use
- Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
- Discuss your facelift options: Minimally invasive with short scar or full face lift
- Examine and measure your face
- Discuss your surgical goals and develop a customized treatment and surgical plan
- Take photographs for your medical records
Pre- and Post-Op Care
- Do not take any blood thinning medications for 1 week before surgery, including aspirin, NSAIDs, ibuprofen/motrin, naproxen (also, avoid any herbal supplements or vitamins which can prolong bleeding)
- Do not smoke, vape, or take nicotine-containing products before or after your surgery as they can impair the healing process
- You will typically be allowed to sponge bathe, but do not shower until the drains come out or until cleared by Dr. Cho
- Wear your dressing at all times at all times if possible
- Take medications as directed
- Avoid strenuous activity as directed by your surgeon
- Come to all postoperative visits as scheduled
Recovery
- 1-2 weeks
- After surgery, you will have dressings/bandages applied around your face to minimize swelling and bruising
- Drains may be in place that look like small thin tubes that will drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect - you will be taught how to maintain and empty these and keep an accurate record of the drainage
- You will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical sites after surgery, and how to take medications to reduce pain and risks of infection
- It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion or motion during the time of healing
Ideal Candidate
- You are doing this for yourself and not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image
- Non-smoker and healthy individuals without medical conditions that impair healing
- Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations
- Want to look your best but also look natural
Patient Review
After a great deal of consideration, I finally decided to get a lower facelift. Dr. Cho and her staff were incredibly helpful throughout the process. Dr. Cho took the time up front to talk with me and understand my goals and concerns. There was no pressure to get it scheduled. Day of surgery, Dr. Cho was so excited and had such a positive outlook on how well things were going to turn out & they did! I am 6 weeks post op now and am so happy... See full review
M.M. / Facelift Patient
Surgery is a Big Decision
We are here to answer any questions you have and help you determine the right choice for you. If you are considering surgery, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Cho today. She would be honored to discuss your goals and help you achieve the look you desire.