Facelift

As we age and accumulate changes caused by our environment, our skin becomes more redundant, loses its elasticity, and begins to “sag.” Tissues under the skin change as well and contribute to this effect. This sagging progressively worsens over time and causes certain predictable changes in the face. Among these changes are deepening of the lines between the nose and mouth (nasolabial folds) and formation of lines below the corners of the mouth to the chin (Marionette lines).  Additionally, pouches of tissue adjacent to the bottom of the lower jaw (jowls) form and the neck becomes loose and droopy and may develop vertical lines (platysmal banding).

One of the most well known cosmetic plastic surgery procedures is the “facelift,” or Rhytidectomy. The medical term rhytidectomy is a combination of the terms “rhytid” which means “wrinkle” and “ectomy” which means “to remove.”  Thus, a rhytidectomy, or facelift, is a procedure directed towards removing wrinkles and the associated redundant skin.

However, because the changes we physically observe are not the result of changes in the skin alone, additional tissues are modified during a facelift procedure.  These tissues include fat, muscle, and connective tissue, all of which are generally removed and/or repositioned during a rhytidectomy.

There are many different types of facelift procedures and no single type of procedure is correct for every person.  Dr. Bluestein evaluates every patient individually and develops an understanding of your goals and objectives.  Based upon your condition and your desires, Dr. Bluestein can then recommend the type of facelift that she believes would be right for you. Contact us to schedule an individualized consultation.