FAQs About Rhytidectomy (Facelift)
When is the optimal time for my surgery?
Being in the best shape mentally and physically with optimal skin health is desirable. As the rest of our body ages, so does the skin. The elasticity and thickness diminish over time, therefore, having a procedure when there is a relatively small correction is better than waiting for a larger undertaking. An earlier lift lasts longer and gives you added years to look and feel your best.
Will I look different?
Your basic bone structure determines who you are. However, tightening and supporting the underlying soft structures, as well as smoothing out loose skin, enables you to look rejuvenated while still maintaining your personal identity.
Can I have only my neck tightened?
Usually, there is loosening of the neck muscles and skin along with laxity along the jaw. In order to give a pleasant and natural appearance after surgery, the neck, jaw and cheek should be balanced.
Are there any other treatments that will improve my appearance and results?
Definitely! Good skin care and the proper skin care products will get your skin in the best shape before surgery and maintain it afterwards. We have superb skin care products and experienced aestheticians who will evaluate your skin and recommend the proper care for you. We will start you on a skin care regimen weeks before your surgery.
Where is the surgery performed?
The Surgery Center of Fairfield County in Bridgeport or Bridgeport Hospital
What will I need before surgery?
You may be asked to obtain a medical evaluation by your family physician to ensure that you are in the best possible shape for surgery.
Type of Anesthesia:
You are gently put to sleep using general anesthesia so that you will be comfortable throughout the operation. Once asleep, I will place a local anesthetic under the skin so that you will feel no discomfort and to minimize the amount of medicine you receive during the operation. By putting you to sleep your heart rate, blood pressure and levels of oxygen will be optimized. Rest assured that being asleep for hours is generally very safe, and the 5-6 hours you sleep will be just fine.
Will smoking effect my healing?
Yes- Each cigarette’s effect lasts 12 hours on the blood vessels of the body. Smoking causes the skin to heal poorly and the complications associated with smoking are tremendous. Additionally second hand smoke, during the weeks before and after surgery, will adversely affect your results. Stopping is a must before and after any operation. I highly recommend you stay away from second hand smoke.
How long will the surgery take?
In order to be meticulous with your surgery, I will take whatever time is necessary. This means not rushing through your surgery. In addition, there are many things that must be done before the operation starts, including washing and preparing the area, making sure that your body is well cushioned, and placing your legs into special boots in order to compress them during the surgery. Likewise, at the end of surgery I need to wash your hair, clean your face and apply a special well- padded dressing. I will also wait in recovery after the surgery to be certain that all is going well before I leave. The surgery itself generally lasts between 5 and 6 hours.
What can I expect?
The folds of skin and creases in front of your ears will be smoothed out. Sagging skin and fat along your jaw-line will be repositioned to bring back a clean, crisp line. Neck skin and muscles will be tightened, and extra fat in these areas will be sculpted away where necessary.
Where are the scars?
The scar usually starts at your sideburn, then passes to the top of the ear, following the ear contour around the earlobe into the groove behind the ear. At the back of the ear, the scar will delve into the neck hairline. There will also be a tiny incision under your chin so I can tighten the neck muscles.
How long will I wear a bandage?
At the end of surgery I will wrap a soft cottony bandage around your head. This will be changed the next day and replaced with an elastic garment that you will wear for 1 week, except when you shower.
When can I shower?
Usually the day after your first post-operative office visit. Shower with a mild shampoo and gentle facial cleanser. Baths are not a good idea for 3 weeks after surgery to keep your swelling down.
Will my Face hurt?
Generally, there is minimal discomfort. You will note snugness about the face and neck from tightening the underlying tissues that have been loose for years.
When can I resume activities?
It is best to relax for the first 7-10 days. Bruising is variable and usually located in the lower face or neck. Seeing your best friends after 10 days is fine, but I would wait at least 2-3 weeks before meeting new acquaintances, at which time you will look presentable. After 3 weeks you will look much better than before surgery, but you still have an additional 3- 4 weeks for 50% of the swelling to subside. It is not a good idea to exercise or increase your heart rate for 3 weeks from the time of surgery. This will help to diminish swelling and improve the rate at which you heal.
What can I do to expedite my healing?
We will give you a set of guidelines that include information about what medicines to stay away from and which vitamins to take. Do not allow anyone to smoke in your presence for weeks. Using ice often, resting, maintaining a low salt diet and having a positive attitude all go a long way to assisting your recovery.
When will I see you again?
Depending upon the combination of surgeries, you will re-visit the office the day after surgery, and then again within 4-8 days. There will be multiple visits (which are included in your care) to evaluate your progress and support your healing needs.
Are there any additional fees to what was quoted?
If the surgery takes a bit longer (as there is never a rush), a bit more may be owed for the operating room and anesthesia. However, if future surgery or procedures are necessary, there will be additional fees for anesthesia, the operating room and the surgeon.
Rosenthal Costmetic Surgery & Skin Care Center – Offices in Fairfield and Greenwich, Connecticut