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Richmond Plastic Surgeons

What is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reverse the signs of aging on the face and neck. It involves the removal of excess facial skin, tightening of underlying tissues, and sometimes repositioning of fat deposits to create a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

woman smiling and looking to the side

What Are the Benefits of a Facelift?

A facelift stands out as the most effective solution for addressing advanced signs of aging that our MedSpa treatments may not address.

Your board-certified surgeon will work closely with you, developing a surgical plan that:

  • Reduces lines and wrinkles by tightening the skin
  • Removes and/or repositions fat to enhance your natural contours
  • Tightens the underlying muscles and ligaments for a nice, firm look

If you have signs of aging over your entire face, we might recommend a full facelift in Richmond. If you’re only dealing with issues in the lower areas of your face, we’ll recommend a less extensive mini facelift.

Facelift Before & After Photos

Dr. Wornom – Facelift

Dr. Wornom - Facelift

Am I the Ideal Candidate for a Facelift?

Have you found yourself dealing with unsightly sagging of the face and neck? Then you’re absolutely an ideal candidate for a facelift! 

We tend to achieve the best results with patients who have good skin elasticity and well-defined bone structure, and are around 40 to 60 years old — but we successfully perform facelifts on older patients as well. 

The goal of a facelift is to help you look younger, while preserving a natural and age-appropriate overall look. As such, your surgeon will walk you through the procedure, helping you understand the most realistic expectations.

What Do I Need to Do Before Having a Facelift?

During your consultation, one of our board-certified plastic surgeons will look at your skin and unique anatomy, walk you through your facelift procedure, and determine the best approach for your surgery, which will be tailored to your personal goals. We’ll also review your medical history to ensure you’re the perfect candidate for surgery in general. 

The process is designed to help you feel well-informed, safe, and confident about your facelift in Richmond at Richmond Plastic Surgeons.

Richmond Plastic Surgeons

What Should I Expect on The Day of My Facelift?

While most facelifts involve general anesthesia, some patients may only require local anesthesia and sedation.

Your surgeon will make an incision above your hairline, in the temple region, following the hairline to a point in front of your ears, and continuing around to the back of your ears. If your surgeon is addressing problems in the neck area, an incision will also be made under the chin.

The skin of your face will be separated from the muscle and fat, and the excess fat will either be trimmed or removed via liposuction. Next, your muscles will be tightened with sutures, before your skin is then draped across your face, pulled tight, and sutured in place. Any excess skin will be neatly removed.

Picture of surgeons performing a facelift

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What Can I Expect After My Facelift?

Good news! Patients usually don’t experience much discomfort after their facelift surgery. If you find yourself uncomfortable, we’ll prescribe some medication to help take the edge off.

You’ll experience numbness in your skin for a few weeks or months until you are fully healed, and you’ll need to keep your head elevated for about two days to keep the swelling down. Your bandages can come off after one to five days. You’ll look a little puffy, bruised, and pale, but this is quite normal, and these symptoms subside after a few weeks.

You’ll need to rest up for the first day or two, limiting yourself to light activity for the first week. Your skin will be numb and sensitive, so be extra gentle and careful when washing or touching your face. You’ll need to avoid any strenuous activity for at least two weeks.

Woman sitting on a bench smiling with a hand under her chin

FAQ

Will I Have Scars After My Facelift?

The incisions along your hairline and scalp will take a bit longer to heal, and you’ll notice pink scars developing as they do. These scars will eventually change to a tan or brown color, fading over the course of a year. They won’t disappear completely, but they also won’t be noticeable unless someone closely inspects your hairlines.

When Will I See My Results?

Your face will be a bit swollen for the first few weeks, with the results becoming more apparent over time. Once the swelling has subsided, you’ll start to see the lovely, youthful results of your facelift.

Are There Any Possible Complications from a Facelift?

Thankfully, our highly-experienced surgeons use the safest available techniques, making complications quite rare. Risk is often based upon the patient’s unique anatomy and healing process. Some patients experience blood under their skin (similar to a bruise), nerve injuries, or infection. Smokers might experience a longer healing time than non-smokers.

How Long Will the Results of My Facelift Last?

Your facelift will have you looking more youthful for years to come...but note that it does not stop the natural aging process.

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If you would like more information regarding a specific procedure, or wish to have a member of our staff contact you, please fill out this contact form and let us know how we can best serve you!

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