facelift surgery

Click here to see facelift photo gallery.

The effects of aging

The facelift is a very popular procedure at Edina Plastic Surgery. As we age the soft tissues of our face will slowly drop, creating jowls, lines, creases and a sagging neck. The facelift is designed to correct these structural changes. Other signs of aging such as loss of skin elasticity and fat from the face can also be addressed but are not corrected by a facelift alone. Also, while a facelift does not correct the eyes or brow it can be combined with other procedures such as blepharoplasty (eyelift) or forehead lift for total facial rejuvenation.

When should a facelift be considered?

The surgeons at Edina Plastic Surgery feel that only those that would benefit should be considered good candidates. All of us age at different times and rates so a facelift should be considered when facial aging has occurred. This can be any time. We have seen substantial aging as young as the late 30's and have successfully operated on those in their late 70's.

A good facelift will give you a "fresh" look - it will not make you look radically different. Few in Minnesota and the Midwest in general would want such a drastic change. We have heard many say "I would never get a facelift because they look so fake." It is our opinion that you just never notice the ones that are done well. The most common responses that our Edina Plastic Surgery patients receive are; "Did you get a new hairstyle?" or "Have you lost weight". Or more commonly, "You just look so good".

What type of facelift?

We believe you should use the right tool for the right job. There are many different "types" of facelifts. Some very good and useful, some not so much! The best way to keep them straight is to think of them in categories. First is the standard facelift. This involves an incision in front of and behind the ear. There are different techniques used but the important thing is for the surgeon to perform the procedure with which he/she has had the most success. Second are the short-scar or so called "mini" facelifts. These involve an incision primarily in front of the ear only. They are useful if there is not as much aging involved and a large neck correction is not needed.

What are the risks?

When performed by one of Edina Plastic Surgery's board certified plastic surgeons, complications are rare and usually temporary. They include a hematoma (bleeding), nerve injury, wound healing problems, and abnormal scarring. In addition, touch up procedures are sometimes necessary. You surgeon will go over these risks at the time of your consultation.

How can I prepare for facelift surgery?

The first step is to make an appointment with one of the Edina Plastic Surgery plastic surgeons. If, after your discussion, you would like to proceed; a pre-operative physical exam must be performed by your regular physician. They will decide if there are any health issues that would make it unsafe for you to proceed with your facelift.

You will get specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. If you smoke you must quit at least 3 to 4 weeks prior to your surgery. In addition you need to avoid aspirin, vitamin E, fish oils, and a few other herbal supplements. A complete list will be given to you at the time of your consultation.

It is important to be hydrated, have your blood pressure under control (for those with hypertension) and arrange to have someone drive you home, care for you at home and drive you to your follow-up appointment usually the next day.

What is involved in the facelift procedure?

The surgery is usually done at Edina Plastic Surgery's on site fully accredited surgery center. While it is possible to perform with IV sedation anesthesia we find it more comfortable and just as safe to perform under a general anesthesia. It is a tedious procedure that may take a few hours to perform.

The location of the incisions will be discussed pre operatively and do vary based on the patient's anatomy, hairline, hairstyle, etc. Local anesthesia is injected to help with recovery and incisions are made. Skin and deeper structures are mobilized and elevated. Some areas are treated with liposuction and fat is often injected into other areas.
Excess skin is removed and the incision closed over small drains.
Facelift recovery is usually fairly comfortable. The patient will wear a large head dressing overnight. Your Edina Plastic Surgeon will check on you before discharge and our recovery nurse will assure that your caregiver understands the post-operative care instructions. You will be discharged a few hours after surgery.

After your facelift surgery

After your stay in Edina Surgery Center's recovery room your plastic surgeon will discharge you usually to the care of a friend or relative. On rare occasions an overnight hospital admission will be required. Most patients are very comfortable but sleepy. We ask that you sleep with your head up, preferably in a reclining chair or propped up on pillows. You certainly may eat and drink.

You will usually be seen the following day. At that time you will have your hair washed at The Salon at Edina Plastic Surgery. Your surgeon or nurse will remove your drains and check to see if everything is all right. While no bandages are usually required at this point you will look bruised and swollen. If stitches need to be removed they will be removed within the next few days.

Your surgeon at Edina Plastic Surgery will give your specific instructions regarding activity guidelines as well as when your may return to work or resume physical activities but expect to be limited from one to three weeks. Patients have a very high satisfaction with their facelifts and many say they are a life-changing experience.

Click here to see facelift photo gallery.