Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure used to help patients look younger by reducing sagging skin and wrinkles. This face procedure involves lifting the skin and tightening the tissues below. Dr. Aisha White has performed countless facelifts in Austin and provides natural-looking results.

Dr. White is a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience and numerous satisfied patients. She will be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with the care and results you are looking for.

What Is a Facelift?

The facelift procedure helps to reposition soft tissues of the face to their elevated and more youthful position. After a facelift, you will look  refreshed, not over-tightened and unnatural. A facelift may be performed in conjunction with other surgical and non-surgical procedures (chemical peel, fillers, Botox, fat grafting, brow surgery, and eyelid surgery) to optimize results.

The facelift is best suited for those who want a long-lasting reduction in the appearance of signs of the aging process. It allows you to temporarily put a stop to the visible effects of aging on your face and neck. The benefits of a facelift can last for a number of years.

When Is the Right Time to Go For a Facelift?

Usually, anyone under the age of 40 won’t need a rhytidectomy. Before this age, the skin is generally elastic and tight enough to stand up to gravity and the aging process. Because of this, while signs of aging may appear, they will not be harsh enough to require surgical correction. For these patients, injectables and other treatments may be a better option.

Those over the age of 40 may just be starting to notice the effects of aging. In some cases, people start seeing these aging signs in their early 40s, while others enjoy youthful-looking skin even in their late 50s.

Generally, the appearance of the skin and the effects of aging vary from person to person. Many factors play a role in this, including genetics, environment, food habits, and smoking.

The perfect answer to what the right age for a facelift is this: There is no one “right” age. However, in general, the period from ages 40 to 50 is a good time for a person to start thinking about a facelift.

Can I Get a Facelift in My 60s or 70s?

While getting a facelift in your 60s or even your 70s is an option, it is generally better to get it done earlier. It makes more sense to go for a facelift in your 40s or 50s due to several factors.

If you get a facelift in your 60s, it will be less effective in the long term compared to getting it done early. Studies have shown that those who have a facelift at a younger age experience better long-term results.

Another major factor is that the older you are, the more at risk you are during surgery. A facelift surgery at 60 can make you susceptible to various health conditions, including surgery-related complications. When you are in your 40s and 50s, you are stronger and healthier, making you less likely to face complications as a result of surgery.

Additionally, by a person’s 60s, their signs of aging may be very harsh. The deeper the signs of aging are, the harder they are to correct with a rhytidectomy. Since the signs of aging are not incredibly harsh in one’s 40s and 50s, the facelift procedure is more effective.

The Rhytidectomy Process: What to Expect

At the start of the facelift procedure, anesthesia is administered. Incisions are then made as required for the chosen facelift technique.

A traditional facelift involves incisions on the hairline at the temples. These incisions stretch down to loop behind the ears. An incision below the chin may also be necessary.

A mini facelift is a technique used for patients who are in need of less extensive rejuvenation and are looking for a shorter and more comfortable recovery period. The incisions for this option are much smaller and are specifically located in areas around the ears as determined by Dr. White. The mini facelift also takes less time to perform than a traditional facelift.

Once the incisions have been created, the underlying tissues are tightened as needed. Excess tissues are removed to achieve a tighter and more even and smooth appearance. Finally, the incisions are closed with the help of surgical sutures.

Recovery and Healing After a Facelift

During the facelift or mini facelift recovery process, it is vital that you closely follow the post-surgical care directions of Dr. White. This will ensure a faster and more comfortable recovery time with a minimized chance of complications.

Swelling and bruising are normal but are only temporary. To minimize swelling, it will be important to sleep with your head elevated for around two weeks after the date of surgery. Use pillows to help with this.

During recovery, avoid steam rooms, tanning, or saunas, since extreme heat can affect the healing process. Additionally, avoid lifting heavy objects. Most patients are cleared to return to work after around 14 days.

The best way to learn about what your facelift results may look like is by viewing facelift before and after photos online. This helps patients have realistic expectations for the procedure.

How much does Facelift Cost?

The price of a rhytidectomy depends on the exact facelift technique chosen for the patient’s unique case. Additional factors include the overall time the procedure requires and the type of anesthesia used. Facelift cost is not covered by health insurance providers.

Make an Appointment to Find Out More

Are you interested in finding out more about facelifts in Austin? If so, it’s best to speak with Dr. Aisha White. From the use of non-surgical injectables to facelifts, Quintessence Plastic Surgery is your answer. Contact our Austin location today to schedule your consultation.