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A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that addresses sagging skin, deepened facial folds, jowling, and loose neck skin by tightening the underlying facial muscles and removing excess skin. MetroDerm’s Center for Plastic Surgery in Atlanta offers mini facelifts and full facelifts performed by board-certified plastic surgeons, delivering natural-looking facial rejuvenation tailored to each patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals.
In Atlanta, the facelift works for everyone. As men and women age, the lower third of their faces begin to show aging. Besides wrinkles, the skin begins to sag. The lower face and jawline lose definition, and the skin under the chin loosens. Some individuals choose to combine a facelift or mini-facelift with other procedures, including a neck lift, brow lift, or eye lift.
Types of Facelifts Offered at MetroDerm
The Mini-Facelift
A limited-incision facelift ideal for patients in their 40s and early 50s with beginning jowling and mild neck laxity. The incisions are well-hidden in the natural contours of your face and hairline.The surgical plan for your mini-facelift is personalized for your face and degree of aging. As a result, the surgery is targeted and less-invasive than a full facelift. You can feel more confident in your appearance with less downtime. Recovery is typically 7-10 days with long-lasting natural results.
The word “mini” might imply that this surgery is superficial. This procedure also addresses the immediate underlying muscular system, or superficial muscular aponeurotic system, and the fat tissues. It’s important to understand facial aging is not entirely about the visible skin. The underlying supportive structures play a large role in the skin tone and definition. The muscles must be addressed to make a dramatic and lasting difference.
Surgery Basics
At the consultation, you will be provided pre-op instructions. Someone must drive you to the surgical appointment and take you home that day, because the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. The surgery takes approximately two hours and you will recover in the comfort of your own home.
Post-Op
You will be given post-op instructions that include when you can return to your normal physical activities. Strenuous activities that raise your heart rate must be avoided during the week following surgery. If you follow doctor’s orders, you will see a rejuvenated, new you within the year. Everyone heals at a different rate.
You will have several follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and healing. Stitches will be removed approximately one week after surgery. At any time during the recovery process, you can call the office to ask questions or get information.
These side effects of facelift surgery are common:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Redness
- Sensitivity
- Discomfort
- Loss of sensation
- Tightness as your body adjusts to the newly repositioned tissues
Not a “Weekend” Procedure
Some individuals refer to a mini-facelift as a “weekend” facelift. However, it takes longer than a weekend to heal after this surgery. Some patients may return to work one week after surgery and others may require several weeks to heal from swelling and bruising. It may take up to a year before the final results are clear.
Mini Facelift Results
The results of a mini surgery can last five to 10 years. Remember, the aging process continues. Several types of non-invasive treatment, including Botox, laser treatments, liposuction, and fillers to can help you maintain the benefits of your mini-facelift.
The mini-facelift is popular because it meets the needs of many patients who, for personal or professional reasons, want a rejuvenated, refreshed look with minimal downtime.
Each patient is unique; therefore, results of treatment may vary.
The Full Facelift
A full facelift is recommended for those in Atlanta who have signs of aging, such as sagging skin and wrinkles from below the eye area down to the chin line. In a full facelift, the incisions are longer and more skin is removed. More tissue is tightened and moved. The result is full-facial rejuvenation. Results typically last 10-15 years. Most appropriate for patients in their 50s-70s.
Something to Consider: Lasting Results
The full facelift has a longer downtime and costs more; however, both have lasting results. The mini-facelift might be more appropriate if you have a specific area of concern or the aging process of your skin is not advanced.
The Extent of Surgery
A full facelift addresses moderate-to-advanced aging around the mid-face. Using skilled surgical techniques, deeper tissue will be re-positioned and excess skin will be removed to smooth creases. A facelift is done to improve the lower two-thirds of the face to the jawline. Jowls and sagging are eliminated, and your face is restored to its youthful contours. Some Atlanta facelift patients choose to include a neck lift or eyelift for optimal results.
Recovery
The most popular question patients ask about the full facelift is about the “downtime.” The side effects of the surgery are much the same as the mini-facelift, except more widespread. Generally, patients can go out in public after a week. In 10 to 14 days, the bruising is barely noticeable. You can ask your surgeon at a follow-up appointment about makeup. Every patient heals at different rates, so it’s important to be patient.
Maintaining Your Results
Maintaining your overall health can benefit you. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) notes quitting smoking before the surgery not only aids healing, but also helps you look your best in the future. You should also maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and limited alcohol consumption to extend the life of your mini-facelift or full facelift surgery. Regular visits to a licensed aesthetician and use of cosmeceutical products are also beneficial.
Each patient is unique; therefore, results of treatment may vary. A consultation with Drs. Farzad R. Nahai or Foad Nahai, two of Atlanta’s top facelift surgeons, will help you understand the benefits and risks.
Facelift with Complementary Procedures
- Neck lift — often performed simultaneously for neck bands and laxity
- Brow lift — elevates the eyebrows and smooths forehead
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Fat transfer — restores volume to hollowing areas
- Laser resurfacing — improves skin texture post-surgery
Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?
Ideal candidates are in good general health, non-smokers (or willing to quit 6+ weeks before/after surgery), with:
- Jowling — skin hanging below the jaw
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Loose, crepey neck skin or platysmal bands
- Significant mid-face descent
- Facial aging that makes you look significantly older than you feel
Recovery Timeline
Week 1
Noticeable swelling, bruising, and tightness. Sutures removed in 7-10 days.
Weeks 2-3
Bruising fades; most patients comfortable in public with makeup coverage by end of week 2.
Months 2-6
Final result visible at approximately 4-6 months as all swelling resolves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do facelift results last?
A: Facelift results typically last 10-15 years. Genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle factors influence longevity. Many patients return for a secondary facelift 10-15 years after their first.
Q: Is a facelift safe?
A: Facelift surgery is generally safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility. Risks include bleeding, infection, nerve injury, and poor healing. Non-smokers in good health have the lowest risk profile.
Atlanta Facelift Resources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Facelift Surgery
- American Board of Cosmetic Surgery: Cosmetic Surgery vs. Plastic Surgery
- American Board of Cosmetic Surgery: Facelift Guide
Request your consultation with one of our Plastic Surgeons in Sandy Springs or Hiram to learn more.
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