Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy) in Delhi, India

As one gets older, the appearance and shape of the face is altered because of regular hormonal changes. Skin texture becomes less elastic and looser, and fat deposits decrease in certain facial areas and increase in others. People with the following features are the best candidates for Surgery:

• Sagging appearance of the cheeks
• Additional skin near the lower region of the jaw (jowls)
• Deep skin folds which extend from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth

• Medical history and exam. The doctor will enquire about past and current medical conditions, previous surgeries, previous plastic surgeries and issues of earlier surgeries, history of smoking, and drug or alcohol use.

• Facial exam. The surgeon will take photos of the face from different angles and close-up images of some features. The surgeon will also examine the patient's bone structure, the shape of the face, fat distribution, and skin quality to decide the best possible options for plastic surgery for scars on face.

• The doctor will help the patient understand how a facelift will likely change their appearance and what it doesn't address, such as fine wrinkles or naturally occurring asymmetry in your face.

Before a facial plastic surgery:

• Follow medication directions. The patient will receive instructions about what medications they should continue during this procedure and what to stop/avoid.
• Wash your face and hair. Washing hair and face with germicidal soap on the morning of the Surgery.
• Avoid eating. Avoid having anything after midnight the night before the procedure.

During the procedure: 

In general, a facelift involves elevating the skin and tightening the underlying tissues and muscles. There is removal and redistribution of fat in the face and the neck. Facial skin is then re-covered over the newly repositioned facial contour, additional skin is detached, and the wound is stitched in the end.

A facelift procedure generally takes around two to four hours but might take longer if other cosmetic procedures are done simultaneously.

The final outcome of this procedure not only helps in the restoration of a youthful and attractive appearance, but it also helps making individuals feel a lot more confident and positive about themselves.

After a facelift surgery, the patient may experience:

• Mild to moderate pain
• Drainage from the incisions
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Numbness

During the few days post-surgery, the patient is advised to:

• Rest with their head elevated
• Take regular medications as recommended by the doctor
• Apply ice packs to the face to alleviate pain and reduce swelling
• Follow wound care instructions as directed by the doctor.
• Do not scratch at crusting scabs that settle on the wound.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes.
• Avoid firm pressure or motion on and around the incisions.
• Avoid applying makeup.
• Avoid direct exposure to sunlight on the incision for three weeks and apply lotion after that. 
• Avoid colouring and bleaching for at least six weeks.

Most people are extremely satisfied with the final results after the completion of the procedure. There will be swelling, bruising, skin discoloration, tenderness, and numbness for around two weeks after the surgery. The surgical scars are hidden either in the hairline or the natural lines of the face and will vanish over time. Exposure to sunlight to be avoided initially for few days as recommended by the doctor also.

Reviewed by Dr. Manoj Johar, Senior Director, Aesthetic And Reconstructive Surgery on 31-August-2022.

• Are face lifts worth it?

What is a facelift?
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, aims to improve visible signs of ageing in the face and neck by tightening sagging skin and muscles, reducing wrinkles, and restoring a youthful appearance.

Who is a good candidate for a facelift?
Good candidates for a facelift are generally healthy individuals with noticeable signs of facial ageing, such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, jowls, or a double chin. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate is to consult a qualified plastic surgeon.

What concerns or signs of ageing can a facelift address?
A facelift can address various signs of facial ageing, including sagging skin and muscles, deep wrinkles and folds, jowls, a double chin, and loss of facial volume. It can provide overall rejuvenation to the face and neck area.

Are there different types of facelift procedures?
Yes, there are different types of facelift procedures, including traditional facelift, mini facelift, mid-facelift, and lower facelift. The technique used depends on the individual's needs and desired outcomes.

How is a facelift different from other facial rejuvenation procedures?
A facelift is a procedure that addresses the underlying structures of the face and neck. Other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as injectable fillers, Botox, or laser treatments, focus on improving specific areas or targeting wrinkles and volume loss without surgery.

What is the average age range of individuals who undergo facelift surgery?
The average age range of individuals seeking facelift surgery is typically between 40 and 70 years. However, age is not the sole determining factor, and candidacy depends on an individual's needs and overall health.

How long does a facelift procedure typically take?
The duration of a facelift procedure varies depending on factors like the specific technique used and the extent of the surgery. On average, a facelift procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours.

Is facelift surgery performed under general anaesthesia?
Yes, facelift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and safety during the procedure. However, in certain cases, local anaesthesia with sedation may be used.

What is the recovery process like after a facelift?
The recovery process after a facelift varies among individuals, but generally, patients can expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days. Following the surgeon's post-operative instructions, which may include wearing a compression garment, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments, is advisable.

Are there any risks or complications associated with facelift surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with facelift surgery, including infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, nerve injury, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia.

Will there be visible scars after a facelift?
Incisions made during a facelift are typically placed in inconspicuous areas, such as along the hairline and behind the ears, to minimize visible scarring. Over time, the scars will fade and become less noticeable.

How long does it take for the results of a facelift to become apparent?
Initial results from a facelift are usually visible in a few weeks as the swelling and bruising subside. However, the final results may take several months to manifest as the tissues heal and settle fully.

Can a facelift help with sagging neck skin or double chin?
Yes, a facelift can address sagging neck skin and improve the appearance of a double chin. In certain cases, a neck lift may be combined with a facelift to achieve results.

Can a facelift address deep wrinkles and folds?
Yes, a facelift can help reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles and folds by tightening the underlying muscles and removing excess skin. However, additional treatments like dermal fillers or laser resurfacing may be recommended for further improvement.

Is it possible to combine a facelift with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, it is possible to combine a facelift with other cosmetic procedures to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Common combinations include eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), brow lift, and fat grafting for volume restoration.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to a facelift for facial rejuvenation?
Yes, there are non-surgical alternatives for facial rejuvenation, such as injectable fillers, Botox, chemical peels, and laser treatments. These procedures can help improve specific concerns but may provide a different level of results than a surgical facelift.

How long do the results of a facelift typically last?
The results of a facelift can last for several years, but the longevity will vary depending on factors such as individual ageing, lifestyle choices, and skincare regimen. While a facelift cannot stop the natural ageing process, it can significantly turn back the clock.

Can a facelift be performed on men?
Yes, facelift surgery can be performed on men. The surgical techniques and goals may be adjusted to suit the patients' unique anatomy and aesthetic preferences.

Can a facelift correct asymmetry or imbalances in the face?
Yes, a facelift can help address facial asymmetry or imbalances by repositioning the underlying tissues and tightening the skin. However, the extent of correction will depend on the individual case and the underlying cause of the asymmetry.

What should I do to prepare for a facelift surgery?
To prepare for a facelift surgery, your plastic surgeon will provide instructions tailored to your needs. This may include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, arranging for transportation on the day of the surgery, and organising post-operative care.

Are there any dietary or lifestyle restrictions before or after a facelift?
Your plastic surgeon may recommend certain dietary restrictions or modifications before and after a facelift to support the healing process. It is crucial to follow their guidance and maintain a healthy lifestyle for optimal results.

Can smoking affect the outcome of a facelift?
Yes, smoking can have a detrimental impact on facelift surgery outcomes. Smoking impairs circulation, slows the healing process, and increases the risk of complications. It is generally advised to quit smoking well in advance of the procedure.

Will a facelift make me look "overdone" or unnatural?
A well-performed facelift by a skilled plastic surgeon should provide natural-looking results. The goal is to rejuvenate and enhance your appearance while preserving your unique features, ensuring you look refreshed and not "overdone."

Can a facelift improve the appearance of the eyes or brows?
While a facelift primarily targets the lower face and neck, it can have some impact on the appearance of the eyes and brows by addressing skin laxity and sagging. However, for significant improvement, additional procedures like eyelid surgery or a brow lift may be recommended.

What is the cost of a facelift procedure?
The cost of a facelift procedure depends on several factors, like the surgeon's experience, location, surgical technique, facility fees, and anaesthesia costs. It is best to consult with a plastic surgeon for an accurate estimate based on your specific needs.

Can a facelift help with the loss of facial volume or hollowing?
A facelift primarily focuses on addressing sagging skin and muscles, but it may not directly address significant loss of facial volume or hollowing. However, your surgeon may recommend combining a facelift with fat grafting or dermal fillers to restore volume and achieve a more balanced outcome.

When can I resume normal activities after a facelift?
The recovery time varies among individuals, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities, including work and social engagements, within 2 to 3 weeks. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for several weeks or as advised by the surgeon.

Are there any long-term effects of a facelift?
The long-term effects of a facelift include a more youthful appearance and improved self-confidence. While a facelift cannot stop the ageing process, it can set back the clock, and the results can be long-lasting.

Can a facelift help with sun-damaged skin or age spots?
A facelift primarily addresses the tightening of sagging skin and muscles. While it can improve the overall appearance of the skin, it may not specifically target sun-damaged skin or age spots. Additional treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels may be recommended for skin rejuvenation.

Are there any alternative treatments to a surgical facelift?
Yes, there are alternative treatments for facial rejuvenation that can provide more subtle results without surgery. These include non-surgical skin tightening procedures, such as ultrasound or radiofrequency-based devices, as well as injectable treatments like fillers and Botox.

Can a facelift be combined with injectable fillers or Botox?
Yes, a facelift can be combined with injectable fillers or Botox to achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation. While a facelift addresses sagging skin and muscles, fillers and Botox can help enhance volume, reduce wrinkles, and further refine the results.

Can a facelift correct jowls or a sagging jawline?
Yes, a facelift can correct jowls and a sagging jawline by tightening the underlying muscles and removing excess skin. This can result in a more defined and youthful jawline contour.

Can a facelift improve the appearance of the nose or lips?
A facelift primarily focuses on rejuvenating the lower face and neck. While it may indirectly improve the appearance of the nose and lips by enhancing overall facial harmony, specific procedures like rhinoplasty (nose surgery) or lip augmentation would be better suited to address these areas directly.

Is there an optimal age to undergo a facelift procedure?
There is no specific optimal age for a facelift, as the decision depends on individual factors such as overall health, signs of ageing, and personal goals. Facelift surgery is commonly performed on individuals in their 40s to 70s, but it can be appropriate for selected patients, both younger and older.

What should I do if my current facelift treatment is not effective?
If you are unsatisfied with the results of a previous facelift or are experiencing concerns following surgery, it is recommended to consult with a plastic surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation. They can evaluate your unique situation and provide guidance on potential revision options or alternative treatments.

Review

FAQs reviewed by Dr. Asheesh Dhingra, Senior Consultant, Aesthetic And Reconstructive Surgery.