Face Lift (Rhytidectomy, Meloplasty)
Over the years the tissues of the face move downward with the effects of gravity and general loss of elasticity of the skin. This process is accelerated with smoking, sun damage, high alcohol intake and genetic factors.
Face lift consultation
looks at what aspects the face and neck the patient is unhappy with. The term facelift actually refers to a group of operations and may include necklift, brow lift, eyelid surgery or facial liposuction. Dr Mills will assess the quality of your skin and make recommendations on the surgery required. The aim of surgery is to give a natural rejuvenation of the face.
Face lift Surgery
is performed under general anaesthetic. In a full facelift an incision is begun behind the hairline in the temple. Coming down in front of the ear, underneath the earlobe and then goes behind the ear and crosses over to travel again downwards in the hairline of the neck. The skin is then lifted up, the deeper tissues of the face are tightened up (SMAS Lift), excess skin is excised and the incisions closed. There often 2 drains coming out of the wounds which help to drain away excess fluid. A dressing is then applied that supports under the chin and on the side of the head. The surgery takes between 2-4 hours.
After Surgery
it is very important that the patient remains with his/her head up to help prevent fluid accumulation and swelling. The patient is usually in hospital for 1-2 nights. The dressings and drains are removed while in hospital. Bruising tends to be at a maximum at 3-4 days. Sutures are removed at 5-7 days.
It is important that on returning home strenuous activity is avoided and sleep with the head up. Patients usually take 2-3 weeks off work and are back to full activities at 6 weeks.
Images contained in this page have been reproduced courtesy of RACS and Mi-tec Medical Publishing. The complete pamphlet "Facelift Surgery" is available from Dr Stephen Mills