What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the face and neck of patients who feel they have sagging skin, deep fold lines between the nose and corner of the mouth, fat that has fallen or disappeared, and even loose skin and fat of the neck that can appear as a double chin.

Facelifts are not the magic cure-all for aging, nor does it fundamentally change your appearance. Facelifts are can only be performed surgically.

Who are ideal candidates for a Facelift?

Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that will impair the healing process are ideal candidates. They should also be non-smoking, and have a positive, realistic expectation of the results of the surgery.

Consultation & preparing for the surgery

When meeting with Dr. Mecham be prepared to discuss:

• Your surgical goals
• Medical conditions, allergies, and treatments you’ve had
• Current medications and other supplements you might be taking
• Previous surgeries

In your consultation Dr. Mecham will also:

• Evaluate your general health status
• Discuss what options you have with a Facelift
• Examine, measure, and take photographs of your face
• Recommend a course of treatment
• Discuss the likely outcomes and any potential complications and risks
• Inform you of the anesthesia that will be used during the procedure

Prior to the surgery you may be asked to get some lab testing completed or a medical evaluation. You may also be counseled to take some certain medications or adjust your current medications. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking.

You will also be asked to avoid taking any aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and any herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.

The Procedure

Step 1: Anesthesia

For your general comfort Dr. Mecham will administer intravenous sedation or general anesthesia for the duration of the surgery.

Step 2: The incision

There are 3 types of incisions that can be performed on you depending on your desired outcome. They include a traditional facelift, limited incision facelift, or a neck lift. Dr. Mecham will cover these incisions in detail with you in surgery prep.

Step 3: Closing the incision

Once healed, the incisions from a successful Facelift surgery are well concealed in your hairline and in the natural contours of your face and ears.

Risks & Safety

Deciding to have a Facelift surgery is extremely personal. It is ultimately up to you to decide if the benefits of surgery will help you achieve your goals and whether or not the risks and potential complications are acceptable.

Prior to surgery you will be asked to sign consent forms with Dr. Mecham to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks and potential complications resulting from a Facelift surgery.

Recovery and Results

After your surgery is complete, a bandage might be placed around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. Thin tubes may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin.

Dr. Mecham will provide you with specific post-surgery instructions that will inform you on how to properly treat the surgical site and care for your overall well being. You may be prescribed additional medications. She will also inform you of warning signs to look out for in case infection or other problems arise.

It may take several months for the swelling to fully go away and for incision lines to mature. Don’t get discouraged if you feel like the changes aren’t noticeable after just a few weeks – proper healing takes time.

Request a Facelift Consultation

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