There are a combination of factors that contribute to aging skin. Sun exposure, photodamage, environmental toxins, genetics, and weight fluctuations can all lead to the visible signs of aging.
While there are some non-surgical techniques that can help reduce mild lines and wrinkles, if you are looking for dramatic results, consider a facelift in Walnut Creek. Dr. Seth Eberlin, board certified plastic surgeon, can help you understand your available facial plastic surgical options during a consultation appointment at Golden Hills Plastic Surgery.
A facelift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that helps create a more youthful appearance by eliminating the sagging or folds of skin that appear along the cheeks, neck and jawline.
The aging process causes soft tissues of the cheek to “fall” down and can change the jawline. This results in jowls and deepening of the crease from the nose to the corner of the mouth. Simultaneously, the skin and muscles of the neck loosen and hang. A facelift is designed to counteract these movements by lifting and repairing the deeper tissues of the face and removing excess skin.
During a facelift procedure in Walnut Creek, Dr. Seth Eberlin will reposition fat and other tissues under the skin and remove excess skin. This combination helps eliminate jowls and tighten face and neck skin.
A facelift addresses the bottom two-thirds of the face and neck and may be performed in combination with other procedures, such as an eyelid or brow lift. Together, this provides an overall rejuvenation for men and women with cosmetic concerns. The results of the surgery are permanent. However, a facelift cannot stop the natural aging process and a significant weight gain or loss after the surgery can have a negative impact on the results.
A traditional “rhytidectomy” is typically required for patients who need a significant amount of skin tightening. It is performed by making an incision that starts in the temple area and moves down, following the inside cartilage of the ear. The incision moves around the earlobe, behind the ear, and then across and down along the neck where the skin meets the hairline.
These incisions are used to access the deeper tissue of the face, which is tightened under the skin. The “short-scar rhytidectomy” or “mini-facelift” is the newest evolution of facelift techniques designed to limit the length of the scar. This can achieve a terrific natural, youthful result and is now the most common type of lift we perform.
A facelift is usually done under deep sedation in Walnut Creek. Once the incisions are made, the skin is separated from the underlying tissue and muscle so the Dr. Seth Eberlin can reposition the muscle and create a firmer foundation for the skin. The skin is draped over the new contours and excess skin is removed before the incisions are closed.
Recovery after a facelift procedure in Walnut Creek will vary from person to person and from procedure to procedure. However, there are general stages that you can expect. When you are discharged from surgery, you will go home with detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions. It is crucial you follow these instructions carefully to help reduce the risk of complications, including infection, and improve the results from the procedure.
In the first 24 hours, you will likely have a bandage around your face to help minimize swelling and support the new facial contours. You will likely be groggy from the anesthesia and the nurses in recovery will monitor your vital signs.
After going home, you can expect bruising and swelling to be most pronounced during the first week and gradually begin to subside. In the second week, you may still feel uncomfortable in social situations but, by the third week, most of the visible swelling and bruising is beginning to subside and you begin to see a more natural appearance.
It can take several months for the swelling to resolve completely and for the incision lines to mature. Over time, you begin to see the final result of the facelift procedure. To support the healing process, we generally suggest taking two to three weeks off work. Walking is great to do right after your surgery. This helps to support blood circulation and healing. However, Dr. Seth Eberlin will tell you when it is ok to start more strenuous activity.
Advances in technology and surgical techniques have made facelift procedures safer and more accessible. If you do not like the face you see in the mirror, we encourage you to call our office today and schedule a consultation to discuss having a facelift in Walnut Creek.
You will speak with our qualified and skilled plastic surgeon, Dr. Seth Eberlin, who can answer your questions and make the best recommendations to address your cosmetic concerns.
