Surgical Facial » Facelift
Facelift in Seattle
Aging subjects the face to the forces of gravity, sun exposure and stress. This can lead to an appearance that does not accurately reflect your energy or state of well being. Skin stretches; areas of fullness lose volume or drop in positioning. Creases form from the nose to the mouth and jowls accumulate, obliterating the jaw line. Bow stringing of neck muscles create “bands” in the neck where fat may accumulate.
A facelift must be personalized to the individual. Our team of knowledgeable, caring staff will talk to you about every element of the procedure to be sure your decision is right for you.
Facelift surgery is an art form that is ever-changing. Each person’s facelift must be custom made to define and change the anatomic features that contribute to their particular signs of aging.
The operation can include removal of excess skin, repositioning of soft tissues, removal of excess or malpositioned fat, tightening of muscles and addition of volume in areas that are deficient.
A facelift is often combined with other surgical treatments such as blepharoplasty, brow lift, liposuction, lipostructure, chin or cheek augmentation, or rhinoplasty. The best combination is carefully considered to create the most improved aesthetic outcome for each individual.
Facelift FAQs
When will my stitches/staples come out?
The stitches around your ears will be removed five days after surgery. Metal clips or staples are also used because they are gentler to the hair follicles. The staples will be removed in seven to 14 days depending on your healing.
How long will the bruising and swelling last?
Bruising and swelling usually peak at about 48 hours and then subside. Do not be surprised if the bruising drifts down to your neck and hest. Gravity tends to pull the bruising and swelling down. The bruising should improve two weeks after surgery but some residual bruising can last for six to eight weeks. Sometimes, swelling may take two to four weeks to improve with a minor amount of swelling lasting up to six months.
How long should I keep my head elevated?
Keep your head elevated for five to seven days to help minimize swelling and bruising and facilitate early healing. Sleep with your head elevated on several pillows following surgery. Do not bend over with your head hanging down. This increases the chance of bleeding.
When can I wear makeup?
Lightly applied cover-up makeup is okay one week after surgery but avoid placing makeup directly on your incision lines. Regular eye makeup can be used two weeks after surgery if the healing is complete.
When can I use facial cream or lotion?
You may apply a light amount of eye cream or lotion to your face one week after surgery. Do not use skin care products with strong chemicals.
Do you recommend any type of skin care product after surgery?
We carry several skin care products that can help reduce fine wrinkles and improve the quality of your skin. You can select from an array of easy maintenance products to more vigorous programs. The right program for you may enhance the outcome of your surgery.
Is there a product to conceal the bruising?
The best products we have found are Physician’s Formula Green Tint to cover up redness and Physician’s Formula Yellow Tint to hide blue. Physician’s Formula is available at local drugstores.
When can I wear earrings?
You can wear earrings three weeks after surgery.
To view facelift patient before and after views, visit my Facial Procedures Gallery.
