Face Lift

Also known as a rhytidectomy, a face lift is an operation performed to remove sagging skin and deep lines and wrinkles from the face and neck. Aging, gravity, and weight fluctuations all contribute to diminished skin tone and facial contour changes. Common changes include excess skin and fat at the neck and jaw line, deep smile lines, and muscle banding within the neck. To reverse these changes and achieve a long-lasting result, modern plastic surgeons perform a multi-layer procedure. In addition to elevating and redraping loose skin, Dr. Braithwaite also lifts and reshapes the deeper structures that provide far greater and more durable contour improvements. When needed, Dr. Braithwaite tightens neck muscles and he often adds liposuction to the procedure to remove fat deposits under the chin. Because a face lift is an entirely individualized procedure, the extent of the intervention, including scar length, is adjusted for each patient’s needs and desires. Dr. Braithwaite often performs face lift surgery in conjunction with other facial procedures to provide complete harmony to a rejuvenated face.

To determine if you are a good candidate for face lift surgery, Dr. Braithwaite will review your health history and perform an examination during your consultation. Good candidates have reached a stable weight, do not smoke, and do not have medical conditions that prohibit safe surgery and normal wound healing. Dr. Braithwaite will carefully assess your skin laxity, underlying bone structure, fat deposits, and muscle actions that effect facial expressions. To help understand your goals, we recommend that you bring photographs of yourself from ten to fifteen years ago to the consultation. We will also take preoperative photos during your visit. During the consultation, Dr. Braithwaite will understand your goals and desires, and he will review available techniques and incision sites. Common incision sites usually begin above the hairline at the temples and extend inconspicuously around the ear. A neck incision is not always necessary and Dr. Braithwaite will make every effort to minimize scar length. Dr. Braithwaite usually performs face lift surgery as an outpatient procedure under sedation or general anesthesia. We usually use small temporary drains to reduce bruising and most patients feel presentable within a few weeks. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.

For more information about face lift surgery or to schedule a complimentary consultation at our Chicago plastic surgery practice, please contact us via email or call (312) 361-8108 today.