Surgical Cosmetic Treatments

RHYTIDECTOMY: Improving the sagging face and neck

The relentless effects of gravity cause the facial and neck skin to sag with time leading to a jowling and squaring of the jawline and to the "turkey gobbler" look of the neck. The first sign of aging begins in the early 30's when the eyebrows begin to become heavy and the folds along the nose and outside of the mouth become noticeable. The facelift operation, or rhytidectomy, has become the second most popular plastic surgical procedure. Once reserved for the Hollywood starlet, it is now commonly requested by men and women in all walks of life. With increasing longevity and emphasis on a healthy, youthful lifestyle, it will continue to become more common.

The best reason for contemplating surgery for the aging face is when "the face in the mirror doesn't match the person inside". A face lift can improve one's self-confidence and self-image, but it will not cure depression and it does not stop the aging process. In general, most patients will look about 10 years younger, but this is dependent on the individual. There are primarily two groups of patients who seek face lift surgery: Those in their 40's with early signs of aging who wish to slow the aging process, and those with more advanced signs of aging. The facelift primarily deals with the sagging of the neck and lower 1/3 of the face. For full rejuvenation of the eyes and lips, other procedures may be needed. Those with more signs of aging will generally achieve a more dramatic change than those with less. All of these points will be discussed during the consultation once the surgeon has performed a total facial analysis. Computer imaging may be used to point out possible results of recommended procedures.