As people get older the effects of gravity, sun exposure, heredity and the basic stresses of daily life are revealed in their face.  Modern surgical techniques can now reduce this aged appearance by removing excess fat and skin, and tightening the facial muscles, thus eliminating most wrinkling and sagging. If you have been considering a facelift, the latest techniques permits you to have a safe, more natural looking, dramatic and longer lasting results, with less downtime.

Risks Involved
As with any surgical procedures, there are some risks involved. With a facelift procedure complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, each patient varies greatly in their anatomy, their physical reactions, and their healing abilities, and the outcome is never completely predictable.  Some of the complications that may occur include, developing a hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin that must be removed by the surgeon), infection, and reactions to the anesthesia.  Poor healing of the skin is most likely a result caused from smoking.

Pre-operative Preparation
Specific instruction will be give to you by Dr. DiTredici on how you should prepare for your surgery.  The most important guideline is that you should stop smoking at least a week or two before and after surgery, this restriction is highly recommended because smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin and can greatly affect the healing of your incision areas.  Dr. DiTredici also recommends using our rapid recovery cream, from our prescribed solutions skin care line. This cream contains special ingredients which will help reduce the inflammation and bruising that occur after surgery.  For your safety on the day of your surgery you should make arrangements for someone to escort you home. 

Surgical Procedure
The typical incision is made from within the hairline, in and around to the back of the ear.  The procedure may also be performed endoscopically or with a limited incision, if the patient is a candidate. 

Liposuction and or suturing of the neck muscles is performed first.  This will contour the jaw line and repair the muscle banding of the neck.  Next, the facial skin along with a layer of fat is elevated off the facial musculature.  The facial musculature, which is known as the SMAS is then elevated.  This is done by excision and suturing or with suturing alone.  It is necessary to utilize the SMAS for elevation, as this is what gives the longevity to the facelift.  It also avoids excess tension on the skin, thus avoiding noticeable scaring.  Additional liposuction may be performed at this time for contour and smoothing.  The incision is then closed.  A soft drain, to remove excess fluid, may or may not be left behind the ear.  A fluff facial wrap will be placed and the surgery is complete.  The approximate length of time of the procedure is from three to six hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Post-Operative
After the procedure you may experience some minor discomfort, in which, Dr. DiTredici will prescribe some medication to help alleviate.  After the surgery Dr. DiTredici may advise you to keep your head elevated, and sleep at a 45 degree angle for a couple of days to keep the swelling to a minimal. You will have some bruising and may experience tightness, numbness, or a tingle sensation.  If you experience any of these sensations do not be alarmed these are normal reactions, and they will disappear during your healing process.  You will be seen 48-72 hours to remove the facial dressing, as well as the drains.  At this time you will be advised to shower and cautiously wash your hair.  You will feel much better at this point.  Your stitches will be removed 7-10 days after surgery, and you will be able to return to work in about 1-2 weeks.  Further individualized instructions will be given upon discharge.