Also known in the medical field as a rhytidectomy, this procedure reduces or eliminates saggy skin and fat in the cheeks or jawline. It also improves the appearance of deep creases and folds on the face. Often, a neck lift is done simultaneously to remove excess fat and saggy skin under the chin (double chin), décolletage, and neck.
After age 30, collagen production in our skin slows down significantly. This leads to a drop in elasticity and firmness in the skin. The skin also becomes drier and thinner, leading to sagginess and loss of facial volume. Lifestyle factors such as stress, poor diet, dehydration, and lack of sleep can also negatively impact the skin over time. All these factors contribute to skin ageing, which can be worse for some people due to their genetics or skin condition. This loss in elasticity and firmness can make us look haggard, tired, and older than we really are.
This is why several people opt for facelift surgery once they reach a certain age, as it tightens the skin and restores a fresh and youthful look. Facelift surgery usually lasts approximately ten years before the effects of skin ageing start to show again. This makes it a more sustainable and long-lasting solution for youthful skin compared to injectables, laser treatments, and other short-term cosmetic procedures.
Facelift surgery generally involves a surgeon making incisions around the ears, under the chin, and around the hairline. Then, the surgeon carefully removes the top layer of skin and tightens the tissues and muscles in your face and neck. Excess fat in the neck and jowls may also be removed. Then, the top layer of skin is replaced and secured back on the face with stitches or sutures.
This procedure is done under general anaesthesia, so you will not feel any pain or discomfort. It is often done as an outpatient procedure so you can go home afterwards to rest and recover. It is normal to experience pain, bruising, and swelling for the first few days as the skin heals, and you will be prescribed painkillers to alleviate any discomfort. You must avoid exercise, wearing makeup, exposing your skin to the sun, and applying pressure to the stitches. A full recovery is expected 4 to 5 weeks after the procedure when you can resume your normal activities.
Facelift surgery can be used to treat the following conditions:
Facelift surgery is highly individualised as everyone’s skin and goals differ. Before the procedure, you and your surgeon will discuss a treatment plan that aligns with your current skin condition and the results you aim for. Your surgeon will assess your skin and advise you on the best type of facelift surgery suitable for your goals.
As this is an invasive procedure, you can expect significant downtime and should prepare to take the time to rest and recover for at least four weeks after facelift surgery. You may need to return to your surgeon for follow-up sessions and to remove the stitches after a week. Since the incisions are done at the hairline and under the chin, scarring is usually minimal and not noticeable.
It is always best to consult an experienced aesthetic surgeon with facelift surgery. Our doctors are highly skilled at facelift surgery and can provide a personalised treatment plan for you. Book a consultation today to find out more.
Only one surgery at a time is typically needed for facelifts. However, your surgeon may advise other treatments to rejuvenate your appearance and provide results that may not be achieved with facelift surgery alone.
This may include dermal fillers, rhinoplasty, laser treatments, or other procedures.
During your consultation, Dr. Andrew Cheah would be happy to tailor the procedure to your specific needs, and achieve for you a youthful, natural looking results.
All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. The procedure should be carried in a safe environment and in an accredited clinic. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome could occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.
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