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Facelift

While some facial cosmetic concerns can briefly be associated with unfortunate lighting or an unflattering angle, other more visible changes usually become more apparent over time due to aging. From fine lines and deep creases to a “double chin” and jowling, it is very common for men and women to experience these effects. Fortunately, facelift surgery can help to improve aesthetic facial concerns in the lower region of the face (mainly the cheeks, jawline, and neck) to achieve a more youthful, refreshed look while still maintaining one’s natural appearance.

Our board-certified Greensboro plastic surgeon, Mary Ann Contogiannis, MD, is trained in the delicate structures of facial anatomy and works closely with each patient to develop a custom-tailored treatment plan to address their unique cosmetic goals.

“Your skill, knowledge, and attention to detail provided excellent results! I felt comfortable from our first meeting when you took the time to answer my questions and review options. Thank you for everything.”

Denise Clay

What Is Involved in a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure (rhytidectomy) designed to improve your facial appearance and diminish the signs of aging. As you get older, the skin relaxes more, which causes sagging and an increase in facial lines and wrinkles.

There can also be lost volume in the face, which contributes to the development of “jowls” along the jaw and in the cheek area. In addition to getting older, wrinkles, lines, deep folds, and sagging skin can be further exacerbated by years of exposure to UV rays, stress, and environmental pollutants.

A facelift is performed to remove the excess skin, particularly from the lower half of the face, and is frequently done in conjunction with other facial surgeries, such as a brow lift or eyelid surgery.

What Are the Benefits of a Facelift?

Most patients are thrilled with their results and are incredibly happy with their decision to have a facelift. Some of the benefits they experience include:

  • Smoother skin and more youthful facial contours
  • Significant boost in confidence and self-image
  • Long-lasting results
  • Saggy skin causing loose jowls and “turkey neck” is tightened or removed
  • Can be combined with other procedures performed at the same time

Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

Good candidates for facelifts should be healthy adults with realistic expectations about their results. During the initial consultation, Dr. Contogiannis will help you make sure your expectations are in alignment with what’s possible, and if a facelift is your best option to help you achieve your goals. If not, she can help you explore other choices that may serve you better.

What Is the Best Age for a Facelift

In general, many patients choose to undergo facelift surgery in their forties to sixties, which is typically when pronounced signs of aging become more noticeable. This can include lines and wrinkles, deeper creases around the mouth, sagging skin, visible jowls, and excess submental fat in the chin and neck region. However, there is not really an ideal age for a facelift, as candidacy and goals for treatment are more important than a particular age range. Dr. Contogiannis can evaluate your facial anatomy and tissue/skin laxity to determine if a facelift or alternative treatment is right for you if you are considering facial rejuvenation.

How Does a Facelift Work?

Dr. Contogiannis performs facelifts in our accredited outpatient center under general anesthesia. Prior to your procedure, she’ll discuss the details with you, such as where incisions will be made.

During the process of removing the excess skin, she’ll also be tightening the underlying muscles as well as the skin tissue. The end result will be a smoother, more youthful, and rejuvenated facial appearance.

What Is Involved in a Mini-Facelift?

Another version of a facelift is known as a mini-facelift. This procedure tends to be a bit less invasive than a conventional facelift, and uses much shorter, smaller facial incisions. Most of the improvements in a mini-facelift are in the mid-face area, and mini-facelifts normally do not involve any other procedures such as a neck lift or brow lift.

What Can I Expect During Recovery Following a Facelift?

After your procedure, you’ll probably be asked to keep your head elevated for a couple of days. Your face will likely be puffy and you may experience some numbness for a couple weeks (and potentially up to a couple of months) following your facelift surgery.

You’ll be given post-procedure instructions and you should follow them closely in order to achieve the best results and the speediest recovery.

How Much Does a Facelift Cost?

The cost of your facelift will depend on the complexity and extent of the procedure, including whether or not additional procedures will also be performed.

Dr. Contogiannis will thoroughly discuss your specific case during your initial consultation and should be able to give you a more accurate cost assessment and breakdown at that time.

Facelifts are usually not covered by insurance, so the full investment will most likely be your responsibility. In an effort to keep patient procedures as affordable as possible, we offer financing as an option for your facelift through Alphaeon® or CareCredit®.

If you still have questions about whether a facelift is right for you, contact our office to set up a private consultation with the doctor. The Renaissance Center for Plastic Surgery & Wellness is pleased to offer our services to residents in Greensboro, NC, including Winston-Salem, Burlington, High Point, and the surrounding neighborhoods.