The ritidectomy, or facelift, is a surgecial procedure that improves the facial aspect that come from the effects of the aging process.  This is done by removing the deposits of fat, the fixing of the facial muscles and the wrinkiling of the skin in the face and neck.  The facelift my be isolated or along with other procedures of facial  rejuvenation such as surgery of the eyelids, forehead or with laser.

 

The ideal candidates are those men or women whose facial skin  and neck have begun to stretch but still maintain good elasticity.

 

Facial rejuvination surgery can give you a fresher and younger look,  thus increasing your selfesteem,  but it does not restore health or youthfull vitality.

 

When this technique is carried out by a cualified plastic surgeon, complications are not very frequent.  Nevertheless, there allways exists the risk that one may arise, such as hematomas or transitory lesions of facial nerves.

 

When you consult your physician , ask all the questions that you deem necessary.  Clear up all your doubts and fears.  Please inform if you smoke or consume any type of medication, vitamins or any drug that may interfere with the coagulation mechanism.

 

If you wear your hair short, it is recommended that you let it grow, so you may hide the scars after the surgery.

 

The type of anesthesia that is used may be general or local by sedation.

 

The procedure lasts a few  hours, especially if it is done along with another facial rejuvinating procedure .  The incisions are generally done over the hairline at the level of the temples, extending towards the front of the ears, continuing behind the hearing lobule down to the lower part of the scalp.

 

If the neck  has to betreated, a small incision is made underneath the chin.

 

The  plastic surgeon usually separates the facial skin from the fat and the muscular plane. The fat deposits from the neck and chin may be suctioned to improve the facial contour.  Then the muscle is adjusted and the excess of skin  is lifted  and the finally the sutures. In many cases, a drain is placed behind the ears to eliminate any blood loss.

 

In the  first 48 to 72 hours after the procedure, you may feel some pain or swelling that can be controlled by medication previously prescribed by your physician.

 

The drain is removed two days after the procedure, and the bandage, the following or on the fifth day.

 

Most of the stitches from the sutures are removed on the fifth day.

 

Recuperation is fast.  Nevertheless, it is best to rest for about two weeks before going back to your usual labors.

Keep in mind that the change is not immediate.  At first, your face will have a strange look due to the swelling, but in approximately 3 weeks you will notice the change and feel much better.

 

Remember your aging process continues and this is not a definite procedure.  At any rate, this technique may be repeated again after two years.