Facial Aging
Facial aging is a complex process influenced by various factors such as environmental exposures, genetics, self-care habits, and overall health. This natural progression occurs on multiple tissue levels, manifesting as fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration on the skin surface due to factors like collagen loss, decreased elasticity, repetitive muscle movement, and exposure to harmful UV radiation. Beneath the skin, volume loss and descent of fat compartments contribute to the aging process, while changes in facial bones and supporting structures further impact the foundational level.
The combination of tissue integrity loss and gravitational forces results in a redistribution of volume, creating an appearance commonly associated with aging. Recognizing that facial aging goes beyond just "sagging skin" allows us to target facial rejuvenation more effectively, appropriately addressing aging with a multi-layer approach.
We now understand that achieving a "younger" face involves more than simply tightening the facial skin. Youthful vitality is achieved by redistributing volume at deeper tissue levels, allowing for the creation of highlights and contours that impart both definition and softness to the face. This understanding influences our surgical approach to facelift procedures, emphasizing a comprehensive strategy that addresses the intricacies of facial aging for optimal and natural-looking results.
What is a Facelift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure used to counteract visible signs of aging in the face and neck. The surgery focuses on the repositioning of underlying facial tissues, accompanied by the meticulous re-draping of facial skin and the removal of excess redundancy. The primary objective is to impart a more youthful appearance by restoring facial volume and minimizing sagging skin. Individuals often pursue a facelift when they perceive a misalignment between their aging external features and their internal, youthful self-perception.
Who is a Facelift Candidate?
Ideal candidates for a facelift surgery are individuals who experience noticeable signs of aging in the face and neck that cannot be addressed with injectables or skin resurfacing alone. There is no “right age” to undergo a facelift. Most patients electing to undergo a facelift procedure are healthy adults between 40s to 60s. In addition to good overall health, good candidates have realistic expectations about achievable outcomes.
A consultation with a qualified facial cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Best is essential to determine suitability for facelift surgery.
What is a Deep Plane Facelift Technique?
There are different approaches to facelift surgery, and the choice often depends on the extent of correction needed, patient's anatomy, and surgeon’s expertise.
The deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique aimed at achieving a comprehensive lift. This method requires the surgeon to enter beneath the “SMAS” layer and mobilize the "deep plane" of the face by releasing the facial retaining ligaments. This release allows resuspension of the deeper tissue layers that tend to sag with age. The skin is then carefully re-draped over the repositioned deeper structures with minimimal tension on the skin. This approach avoids the undesirable appearance of an artificially pulled or swept look. The deeper volume redistribution allows for natural highlighting and contouring of the face.
Dr. Best is highly trained and uniquely qualified to perform deep plane facelifts in Ottawa due to her extensive training in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery followed by a fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
What kind of Scars are visible after a Facelift?
Scarring after a facelift is inevitable, but Dr. Best aims to minimize visibility by strategically placing them within the natural contours of the face, ear and hairline. Scars are pink to start, but over time they tend to fade. Makeup can be used to conceal scars during the initial healing phase. Lasers and injections can be used to expedite the healing process in some cases.
What is the Recovery After a Facelift?
Immediate Aftercare:
- A bandage is placed around the face overnight to minimize swelling and bruising.
- Drainage tubes may be present for 1-3 days, exiting at the hairline.
- Patients are instructed to keep their head of bed elevated for the first week.
- Patients are instructed to keep their blood pressure controlled and avoid strenuous activity in the immediate post-op period.
- Minimal discomfort post-surgery surprises many patients.
Recovery Timeline:
- Swelling and bruising peaks over 2-3 days, then starts to improve.
- It is a good idea to have a support person available at home to assist with your needs for the first few days following surgery.
- Close follow-ups will be scheduled with Dr. Best for the first 2 weeks until all sutures are removed.
- Most patients can return to work after 2 weeks. Recovery varies based on factors like health, age, and additional procedures.
- By 3 months, the majority of swelling usually resolves.
- Full healing takes up to a year.
Post-Surgical Restrictions:
- Avoid heavy exercise or strenuous activity for 1 month.
- No haircuts, coloring, or scalp treatments for 1 month.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited for at least 1 month before and after surgery.
How to Choose the Right Facelift Surgeon in Ottawa?
Choosing the right surgeon for your facelift is important. Dr. Corliss Best is dual-trained in both Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and is uniquely qualified to perform facelift surgery.
To learn more about expert facelift surgery in Ottawa, contact Dr. Best’s office