Escape from aging....for centuries we have looked for the magic cure in creams, exercise or diet...hoping mother nature will respond. As we age: gravity, the elements, and genetics all conspire against us, creating not only wrinkles in our mind but also on our faces. No skill or art is needed to grow old. Aging of the face is inevitable and as years pass--the skin loosens, the jawline softens into jowls, and a double chin can appear. As the aging population grows, it is obvious why the facelift has become the third most desired facial plastic surgical procedure. [Before and after a Facelift] IS A FACELIFT FOR YOU? Successful facial plastic surgery results from good rapport between patient and surgeon. With our Computer Imaging System, we are able to create an image showing the results that you can expect from a facelift. As with all facial plastic surgery, good health and understanding the limitations of a facelift is crucial. Our goal is to improve the overall facial appearance, and successful surgery has been performed on patients from their thirties to their eighties. A facelift cannot stop aging, nor can it turn back the clock. What it can do is help you face look its best--giving you a healthier and more youthful appearance. Before deciding on a facelift, you should discuss with Dr. Younger whether the overall effect will be more successful if done in conjunction with additional facial surgery (forehead, nose, chin, or liposuction). MAKING THE DECISION FOR A FACELIFT During the preliminary consultation, Dr. Younger will examine the structure of your face, and the texture, colour and elasticity of your skin. Photographs will be taken for a pre-operative in-depth study of your face. Individual risks will also be examined, especially those related to medical conditions such as high blood pressure, a tendency to scar, smoking, and any deficiency in blood clotting. Dr. Younger will take a thorough medical history, as well as assess your mental and emotional attitudes toward the surgery. A realistic attitude is vital to the success of surgery. We will discuss the surgical procedure and your expectations and review the digital imaging. Dr. Younger will discuss the technique indicated, type of anesthesia, surgical facility, pros and cons, and costs, so that you can make an informed decision. UNDERSTANDING THE SURGERY Incisions are made to fall along natural crease lines. The placement of the incision also depends on the hairline and is specific to each individual. The procedure starts at the temple hair area, continues along the ear fold around the earlobe and up behind each ear. After the removal of excess fat and skin, the deep facial muscles are tightened. The skin is then redraped and incisions are closed with sutures and small metal clips. Surgery may take from two to four hours under a general anaesthetic. WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE SURGERY Some swelling and bruising are normal but much of it will subside within the first week or two. A soft dressing, under your chin and around your head, protects the incisions for the first few days. We will be in close contact during your post operative week. By day 12 all the sutures will have been removed--most people are ready to return to work after two weeks. We advise you to refrain from strenuous activities for a month. At this stage the scar may be pink and easily covered with make-up, if needed. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Payment for all surgical procedures are due two weeks prior to surgery. The fee for surgery includes anesthesia hospital stay, surgical fees, and pre- and post-operative visits. |