MultiCare Health System

Facelift

A facelift, also called rhytidectomy, smoothes the loose skin on your face and neck, tightens underlying tissue and can remove excess fat. As a result, your face will appear firmer and fresher.

Is a Facelift for You?
Thanks to new surgical techniques, a facelift today produces a more natural look than ever, and it's not unusual for a person to look 10 years younger following the procedure. Of course, skin type, ethnic background, degree of skin elasticity, bone structure, as well as a realistic attitude, are all factors that should be discussed prior to surgery.

Your Personal Consultation
When you sit down for your personal, confidential consultation, you will be asked about the results you would like to achieve from a facelift. This will help Dr. Rooney understand your expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved.

About the Procedure
Incisions are planned carefully and “hidden” in front and behind the ears so that the scars are not obvious. Through these incisions, the skin of the face and neck is lifted away and the underlying muscles are tightened with sutures, which is the strength of the facelift and makes it last longer and look natural. Excess skin is trimmed, and the incisions are closed with special suturing techniques.

Facelift surgery usually requires a general anesthetic to be administered so that you sleep during the procedure. You should be prepared to spend one night in the hospital.

Recovery and Beyond
Most patients experience very little pain after a facelift and swelling and bruising tend to be minimal. The head should be elevated for a week following the procedure. The neck and face will feel tight for about six weeks, and some numbness may last for several weeks.

Recovery time can vary, but most individuals are healed well enough to appear in public seven to 10 days following surgery.

The results of a facelift generally will last seven to 10 years. The procedure then can be repeated.

Understanding the Risks
Fortunately, significant complications from facelifts are infrequent. Every year many people undergo successful facelift surgery, experience no major problems and are delighted with the results. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and the risks. These issues will be discussed during your consultation.