Facelift Results

Most patients that undergo facelift surgery are pleased with the results of the procedure. Nevertheless, it is normal for patients to be anxious to see the final results of their efforts to look more youthful and rejuvenated. The staff at Jefferson Plastic Surgery understands that this anticipation is a natural part of the facial rejuvenation process for patients who have invested a great deal of time and effort in improving the appearance of their facial features. The truth is that there are a number of facelift techniques that can be used, each of which produces different results. The surgeons at our practice will choose the facelift approach that is right for you based on the severity of skin and muscle laxity, and your unique cosmetic goals.

SMAS Full Facelift Results

This procedure is designed to give the overall face a rejuvenated appearance. Patients can undergo the traditional approach, which only tightens the facial skin and underlying tissue. This results in a smoother appearance for the skin, but if the underlying facial muscles have also begun to droop, better results can be achieved with a superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS) facelift. This procedure also tightens the underlying muscle structure. Sutures placed into the SMAS muscles, rather than just the skin tissue, are better anchored, thereby allowing for longer-lasting, more comprehensive results. A facelift using the SMAS technique is also less likely to leave patients with facial skin that looks as though it has been pulled too tight.

Mid Facelift Results

Patients whose main goal from a facelift procedure is to correct for sagging or hollowed cheeks may benefit from a mid facelift, which only focuses on the middle third of the face. Results are enhanced by use of the SMAS technique described above, as it will give the newly contoured facial features a better anchor onto the facial structure.

Lower or Neck and Chin Lift Results

This procedure specifically targets excess skin and tissue around the lower third of the face. Results from a neck and chin lift will include reduced appearance of jowls, double chins, and neck wattle. If the rest of the features are not drooping, a lower facelift will provide subtle results. Although the results of a lower facelift may not look obvious to the casual observer, they will change the face just enough to give that youthful appearance patients want.

Browlift Results

This procedure is not a facelift - it is designed to only lift the upper third of the face. Results from this type of facelift procedure will include an improvement in the appearance of forehead furrows, as well as the lines and wrinkles around and between the eyebrows. Because this procedure focuses on the upper face, results will make the patient look more alert, but without an overly startled look around the brows.

The results of facelift surgery are typically noticeable within four to six weeks of surgery. However, it may take up to three months for most of the swelling to subside.

Cosmetic surgery has made remarkable advances over the past several decades. With today’s facelift techniques, the results are much more refined, providing patients with a younger, yet still natural appearance to their face.