Facelift

As you age, your face undergoes a number of changes. Not surprisingly, many people would like to make these changes a little less obvious. Facelift surgery can help by improving visible signs of aging in your face and neck, leading to more youthful and refreshed appearance.

More specifically it can address:

  • Sagging in the middle of the face
  • Deep creases below the lower eyelids
  • Creases along the nose that extend to the corner of the mouth
  • Fat – such as fat in the cheeks – that has fallen or has been displaced
  • Lost muscle tone in the lower face, which may create jowls
  • Loose skin and fatty deposits under the chin and jaw, which may result in the appearance of a double chin (even in someone of normal weight)

What happens during the procedure?

Facelift techniques have improved significantly in the past 15 years, and have evolved from a skin lift that simply tightened the skin to surgery that repositions muscle, fat and skin. Today’s facelift procedures, when performed by a skilled surgeon, result in a much more natural look than in the past. Each facelift is very individualized.

During your consultation, Dr. Kyllo will determine a personalized surgery plan for you based on your facial structure and your appearance goals. He may also recommend that you combine the facelift with other procedures, such as a brow lift or eyelid surgery. This combination may help you better meet your appearance goals.

A facelift is performed as an outpatient procedure and lasts between two and four hours. You will receive a deep sedative anesthesia to help ensure you are as comfortable as possible. After surgery, you will be able to return home shortly. During the procedure, incisions are usually made in front of and behind the ear and are hidden in natural creases of the skin. Once the incisions are in place, Dr. Kyllo begins reshaping and repositioning fat, muscle tissue and skin. Excess fat and skin may also be removed at this time. At the end of surgery, tiny sutures are placed under the skin to close the incision. You will likely experience some bruising and swelling, which should decrease after about a week. We recommend you take up to two weeks off from work during your recovery. This allows enough time for visible swelling and bruising to decrease.

Best candidates for facelifts

Most patients who receive facelifts are in their 40s, 50s and 60s, but people in their 70s and 80s can also have successful surgeries. Surgery is best for people who are generally healthy, who don’t smoke (or who temporarily stop smoking several weeks before surgery), and who have realistic expectations about the procedure.

Consultation at our clinic

We invite you to come meet with us in person to discuss your surgery goals, see patient before-and- after photos, and learn more about our practice and staff. Please contact us for an appointment or for additional information at 206-343-3118.