Frequent Questions About Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
Below you will find a list of frequent questions about face lift. Hawaii residents considering plastic surgery often have many questions about their procedure. If your question isn't answered here, contact us with your question, and be sure to include the name of the procedure that interests you.
How is this procedure performed?
There are different techniques and approaches to a face lift. Hawaii patients can learn more specifics during the consultation. The exact placement of the incisions
and the sequence of events depend on your facial structure and your surgeon's preference. Generally, incisions usually begin at the temples above the hairline,
flow along the natural line inside of the ear, curve around the earlobe into the crease behind the ear, then into or along the lower scalp. If your neck needs
attention, your Hawaii cosmetic surgeon may make a small incision under the chin.
The facial skin is lifted, fat is trimmed or suctioned and underlying muscle may be tightened. After deep tissues are tightened, the excess skin is pulled up
and back, trimmed and stitched (sutured) into place. Stitches secure the layers of tissue and close the incision; metal clips may be used on the scalp. Some
surgeons use a tiny thin tube placed temporarily under the skin behind your ear to drain any fluid that could collect there. Your Hawaii cosmetic surgeon may also wrap your head
loosely in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling.
How do I prepare for my face lift in Hawaii?
During your initial preoperative visit with your Hawaii cosmetic surgeon, be prepared to provide a complete medical history including all your medications, allergies and previous
surgeries. You will undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests. If you are over age 50, an electrocardiogram may be taken. Photographs are important aids in planning and performing your face lift. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and several months after your procedure.
During your Hawaii face lift consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include taking vitamins, cautions about
taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, and instructions on hair coloring and use of antibacterial soap.
It is very important to note that smoking reduces the blood supply to the face and may increase scarring and compromise the good results of a face lift. Hawaii patients must stop smoking completely for three weeks before and two weeks after their procedure. "Cutting down" will not help. Complete elimination of smoking is required in order to improve facial blood supply.
You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your face lift in Hawaii. If you take daily medication, ask your cosmetic surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. If
you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined again prior to your procedure.
How long does the procedure take?
Operating time varies depending on the extent of your face lift procedure in Hawaii. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Schlesinger generally completes face lifts in two hours.
What form of anesthesia is used?
You will be given either local anesthesia combined with sedation or general anesthesia, administered by an expert anesthesiologist M.D. (medical doctor). Discuss
your needs and comfort level specifically with your Hawaii cosmetic surgeon to create the best possible experience.
Can I return home the day of my Hawaii face lift?
Unfortunately, no. Face lifts require an overnight stay for observation purposes. Be sure to arrange for someone to pick you up the next day, take you home, and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
How long before I can return to normal activity?
After their Hawaii face lift, most people return to work and their usual activity within ten days. Jogging, aerobics, bicycling and other non-contact sports are permitted three weeks after
the procedure.
What is the age limit for a face lift?
Health, not age, determines how long you can wait to have a face lift. A healthy individual can have a face lift well into their eighties.
How long does a face lift last?
Actually, it depends upon the individual; each person experiences sagging and the effects of aging at a different rate. A facelift result generally rolls back the clock five to 10 years.
If you're ready to learn more about face lift, request a Free Face Lift Consultation with Hawaii cosmetic surgeon Dr. S. Larry Schlesinger at his plastic surgery offices in Honolulu, Maui and Kona.
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