What is a facelift?

Rhytidectomy is a surgical procedure commonly known as a facelift. It involves the removal or repositioning of excess facial fat, the tightening of facial muscles, and the trimming or redraping of facial skin to approximate a smoother, firmer facial appearance. The procedure takes place on either the face, neck, or both.

Depending on the area of the face or neck where the "lift" is to take place, the surgeon will separate the skin from the underlying fat and muscle. The fat is then removed or repositioned. Stitches (sutures) are used to elevate the supporting layers of the face and neck, and the skin is pulled back into place with any excess removed.

Possible complications linked to facelifts

Possible complications linked to facelifts may include:

• Nerve injury. Facial nerve injury or weakness may occur along with numbness or changes in skin sensation. This may be temporary or permanent. You may have pain that continues.

• Infection and anesthesia reaction. As with any type of surgery, there is a risk of infection and an adverse reaction to the anesthesia.

• Hematoma. A hematoma, blood that collects under the skin, could occur. They are generally removed by the doctor to avoid pressure on the skin and possible injury.

• Slower healing process (for some people). Smokers, in particular, may find that the healing process following a facelift is slower than normal. Smoking in the period leading up to surgery, or after surgery, can contribute to skin injury and permanent scarring. Your surgeon may not perform your surgery if you are currently smoking.

• Scarring. The scars may not heal properly and be more visible or thick than desired. This may require further treatment or revision.

Who is a candidate for facelift?

The best candidates for a facelift are those whose face, neck, or both have begun to sag, but whose skin still has some elasticity. The procedure also works best on people whose bone structure is strong and well-defined.

About the procedure

Although each procedure varies, generally, facelift surgeries follow this process:

Where the procedure may be done

• Surgeon's office-based surgical facility

• Outpatient surgery center

• Hospital outpatient

• Hospital inpatient

Anesthesia options

• General anesthesia

• Local anesthesia combined with IV sedation. This lets you stay awake but relaxed.

How long will it take?

• Several hours or longer, if more than one procedure is being done.

Some possible short-term side effects of surgery

• Pain after surgery is not unusual, though generally well-controlled with medicine. 

• Temporary numbness of the skin