As we age, we shrink, sag, and wrinkle. The speed of aging is different for everyone and influenced by genetics, sun exposure, and other factors. For many patients, loss of cheek fullness, blunting of the jawline (jowling), and deepening of the lines around the mouth (nasolabial folds) are changes that gradually become more apparent and contribute to a “boxier” face. When these changes start to bother you, it may be time to consider a Facelift Surgery and/or facial fat grafting, fillers, or facial implants. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Li will analyze your face and neck in detail and discuss whether Facelift Surgery is a good option for you.
Facelift Surgery usually involves incisions hidden on your hairline and around your ear. Surgery is performed on the fatty and muscular layers of your face, to re-suspend the cheeks, smooth the jawline, and soften the nasolabial folds. For a more complete rejuvenation, Facelift Surgery is often combined with Neck Lift Surgery and skin resurfacing. Neck Lift Surgery tightens loose neck structures, whereas skin treatment, such as microneedling, Fraxel, or chemical peels, can greatly improve skin texture.
KEY POINTS
SURGERY UNDER GENERAL ANESTHETIC
GO HOME THE SAME DAY (DAY SURGERY)
RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITIES WITHIN 2-3 WEEKS
REWIND THE CLOCK BY 5-10 YEARS
RESTORE FULLNESS AND PROJECTION TO YOUR CHEEKS
SOFTEN DEEP FOLDS AROUND YOUR MOUTH AND CHIN
RESTORE DEFINITION TO YOUR JAWLINE AND LESSEN YOUR JOWLS
HIDE SCARS IN YOUR HAIRLINE, AROUND THE EAR, AND UNDER YOUR CHIN
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE SURGERY
You will be evaluated by Dr. Li at the time of your initial consultation to determine if Facelift Surgery +/- Facial Fat Grafting or Facial Implant Surgery is the best option for you
You will be required to quit smoking and oral contraceptives 4 weeks before surgery
You will need to complete testing before surgery, which may include a physical with your PCP/primary physician, blood work, and an ECG
Prescriptions for your surgery will be sent to your local pharmacy, please obtain these medications ahead of time and bring them to your surgery
A deposit is required to secure your surgery date
Full payment is required 2 weeks before surgery; payment options include cash, cashier's check, or credit through Alphaeon or CareCredit
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY
General anesthesia can sometimes cause generalized body soreness and fatigue for a couple of days
Maximum discomfort will occur in the first few days after surgery and gradually improve
You will not be allowed to engage in any significant exercise (e.g. running, lifting weights) for 4 weeks
You will be provided a compression garment for your neck to wear after surgery; it is recommended that you wear the compression garment for 6 weeks
You may experience temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, or a burning sensation over areas you had liposuction and/or fat grafting; bruising and swelling takes several weeks to improve; numbness takes a couple months to normalize
Scars may be red and firm for approximately 6 months before they soften and fade