Facial aging spares no one, yet the option to reverse its course remains within reach for those who see its signs as a concern. The onset of aging can be subtle, starting with a few fine lines and gradually progressing to sagging skin, which may initially be managed through skin treatments. However, there comes a point where non-surgical facelift techniques no longer suffice, marking the moment when a surgical facelift becomes a consideration.
At South Bay Aesthetics Plastic Surgery in Torrance, CA, led by Dr. Christopher Verbin, the facelift has been refined into an art form designed to address the visible signs of aging and rejuvenate your appearance.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift, medically known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the face by reducing the appearance of visible signs of aging. This transformative process meticulously tightens the facial skin, repositions underlying tissues and removes excess skin to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance. The essence of a facelift treatment lies in its ability to meticulously address areas of concern, such as sagging skin, deep creases along the nose extending to the corners of the mouth, and jowls that blur the jawline.
What Can a Facelift Do?
Enhance Jawline Definition
A facelift significantly improves the contour of the jawline, reducing the appearance of jowls and creating a more defined, sharper jawline. This benefit is crucial for a rejuvenated facial structure, offering a cleaner, more youthful silhouette.
Reduce Sagging Skin
The procedure effectively tightens sagging skin, particularly around the lower face and neck. By removing loose skin and tightening the remaining skin, a facelift allows patients to enjoy the anti-aging results of a smoother, firmer facial appearance.
Diminish Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Facelift surgery smooths out wrinkles and fine lines, especially around the mouth and nose. The tightening effect reduces the depth of creases, offering a more youthful, revitalized skin texture.
Improve Facial Volume
Repositioning underlying tissues during a facelift can restore lost volume to areas like the cheeks. This enhances facial contours and contributes to a fuller, more youthful facial appearance.
Tighten Neck Skin and Muscles
The procedure can include neck lift techniques that address loose skin and muscle banding in the neck. This results in a more defined neck and chin area, enhancing your overall look for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Benefits of Facelift Surgery
Long-Lasting Results
Unlike non-surgical treatments, the results of a facelift are long-lasting, often extending for many years. This longevity makes it a valuable investment in maintaining a youthful appearance.
Natural-Looking Results
Advanced facelift techniques ensure results that look natural, not pulled or tight. Patients can expect rejuvenation that reflects their natural beauty without appearing “done.”
Minimal Visible Scarring
Incisions are strategically placed in inconspicuous locations, such as behind the hairline or within natural skin folds. This careful placement minimizes visible scarring, preserving the aesthetic integrity of the rejuvenation.
Tailored to Individual Needs
Facelift procedures are highly customizable, allowing adjustments based on individual aging patterns and goals. This tailored approach ensures that each patient receives the most beneficial outcome, directly addressing their unique concerns.
Complements Other Procedures
A facelift can be effectively combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as brow lifts, eyelid lifts and injectable fillers, for a comprehensive facial rejuvenation strategy. This versatility allows patients to achieve a full facial refresh, addressing aging signs across multiple areas for a cohesive, youthful look.
Types of Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery has evolved significantly over the years, moving from more traditional methods to advanced techniques that prioritize natural-looking results. Today’s facelifts are not just about pulling the skin tight; they involve a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying structures of the face. This modern approach allows for a more youthful appearance that avoids the telltale signs of surgery.
SMAS Facelift
One of the most common techniques is the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) facelift. This method focuses on tightening the deeper layers of the face, not just the skin. By manipulating the SMAS layer, which lies beneath the skin and fat, Dr. Verbin can achieve a more natural lift and face contouring that maintains natural facial expressions and shape.
Deep Plane Facelift
Another advanced technique is the deep plane facelift, which involves lifting and repositioning the muscles, fat and skin as a single unit. This method allows for more significant correction of midface sagging and provides longer-lasting results. The deep plane facelift is particularly effective for those with considerable signs of aging in the midface and neck.
Mini Facelift
For patients with mild to moderate signs of aging, a mini facelift might be the ideal solution. This less invasive option targets the lower third of the face, focusing on the jawline and neck. The mini facelift requires smaller incisions and typically has a shorter recovery time, making it a popular choice for younger patients or those looking for a subtle enhancement.
How to Prepare for Facelift Surgery
Preparing for a facelift is an essential part of the process, as it sets the foundation for a successful surgery and smooth recovery. At South Bay Aesthetics Plastic Surgery near Redondo Beach and Long Beach, we provide detailed, personalized instructions during your consultation to ensure you are fully prepared for your facelift procedure. Here are some key steps to consider in the weeks leading up to your surgery:
- Review Medications and Supplements: During your consultation, Dr. Verbin will review your current medications, supplements and any over-the-counter products you are taking. Certain medications and supplements, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and herbal remedies like ginkgo biloba or garlic, can increase the risk of bleeding and should be discontinued at least two weeks before surgery. You may also be advised to start taking specific supplements or medications that promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. For your safety, always follow your surgeon’s guidelines on medication adjustments.
- Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake: If you smoke, it is crucial to quit at least four to six weeks before your facelift surgery. Smoking constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the skin, which can impair healing and increase the risk of complications, such as poor wound healing or infection. Similarly, limiting alcohol intake in the weeks before surgery can help reduce the risk of dehydration and bruising. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption are important steps in promoting optimal recovery and achieving the best possible results.
- Plan for Post-Operative Care and Support: A successful recovery requires careful planning. Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you to and from the surgery and stay with you for at least the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. You will need assistance with basic tasks, such as preparing meals, managing medications and ensuring you are comfortable during the initial recovery period.
- Prepare Your Home for Recovery: In the days leading up to your surgery, take time to prepare your home for a smooth recovery. Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals, soft foods and plenty of fluids, as your appetite may be reduced and chewing might be uncomfortable in the first few days after surgery. Have ice packs or cold compresses ready to help reduce swelling, and make sure your bathroom is stocked with gentle, non-irritating skincare products, such as mild cleansers and moisturizers. You should also have any prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain relievers on hand, as recommended by Dr. Verbin.
It’s also a good idea to set up a recovery area in your home, complete with comfortable bedding, plenty of pillows to keep your head elevated and easy access to the essentials, such as water, snacks and entertainment. - Follow a Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the weeks leading up to your facelift can promote a smoother recovery and better results. Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients that support skin health and healing, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also essential, as well-hydrated skin is more resilient and heals more effectively. Regular exercise, such as walking or light cardio, can boost your circulation and overall well-being, but be sure to avoid any activities that could cause injury or strain in the days before surgery.
- Prepare Mentally and Emotionally: Undergoing a facelift is a significant decision, and it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Take time to prepare mentally and emotionally by discussing any concerns or questions you have with Dr. Verbin during your consultation. Understanding the procedure, recovery process and expected outcomes can help alleviate anxiety and set realistic expectations. Consider engaging in relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises or gentle yoga, to help manage stress and maintain a positive mindset leading up to your surgery.
Several factors will make you a suitable candidate for a facelift. Consider the surgery if one or more of the following criteria apply to you:
- You are comfortable having an invasive surgery.
- You have the time to dedicate to your recovery.
- You have facial aging symptoms that other treatments cannot significantly improve.
- You are in sound, overall health.
- You do not have bleeding issues.
- You want substantial and long-lasting rejuvenation that will last for years.
- You have realistic expectations of what facelift surgery can achieve.
Talk to us if you know you want a facial rejuvenation treatment but still aren’t sure if a facelift is right for you. We can help guide you to the ideal procedure or course of treatment.
Facelift patients will be placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, based on the extent of the procedure. The surgery itself can take several hours; the length will depend on the complexity of the facelift and any additional procedures being performed. Dr. Verbin will make incisions in discreet locations, such as along the hairline or behind the ears, to minimize visible scarring. He will then adjust the facial tissues according to the customized surgical plan, meticulously repositioning and tightening the underlying muscles and skin to achieve the desired youthful contours.
After the facial tissues have been adjusted and excess skin has been removed, Dr. Verbin will close the incisions using sutures. The type of sutures used may vary depending on the surgical technique and the patient’s skin type. In many cases, dissolvable sutures are used, which will naturally be absorbed by the body over time, eliminating the need for removal. For other incisions, especially those that require extra precision for minimal scarring, non-dissolvable sutures may be used, which will be removed during a follow-up appointment.
The incisions are meticulously closed to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring. Dr. Verbin ensures that the sutures are placed in such a way that they follow the natural lines and creases of the skin, making any potential scars as inconspicuous as possible. In some cases, surgical tape or skin adhesives may be applied over the sutures to provide additional support during the initial healing phase.
Once the surgery is complete and the incisions are closed, you will be gently moved to a recovery area. Here, you will be closely monitored by a team of medical professionals as you awaken from anesthesia. This monitoring is crucial to ensure you are stable and comfortable as you begin to recover from the effects of both the anesthesia and the surgery itself.
During this initial recovery period, the medical team will check vital signs, such as heart rate, oxygen levels and blood pressure, to ensure that everything is within a safe range. They will also assess your surgical sites, ensuring that the dressings are secure and that there is no excessive bleeding or swelling.
You may feel groggy or disoriented as the anesthesia wears off, which is completely normal. The medical team will be on hand to provide pain management, if necessary, and to address any immediate concerns or discomfort. Depending on the extent of the surgery and your overall health, you may be able to return home the same day or might need to stay overnight for additional observation.
Before being discharged, you will receive detailed post-operative care instructions that are crucial for a smooth recovery. These instructions will cover how to care for the incisions, manage swelling and bruising, and what signs to watch for that may require contacting your surgeon. Arrangements will also be made for a follow-up appointment, during which Dr. Verbin will assess your healing progress and remove any non-dissolvable sutures if used.
We recommend patients sleep with their head elevated for at least the first week after facelift surgery. This helps reduce swelling and minimizes pressure on the incisions. Sleeping on your back with pillows propping up your head and shoulders is ideal. Additionally, it’s important to avoid sun exposure, as the skin is particularly sensitive during the healing process. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and applying a high-SPF sunscreen when going outside can protect the delicate skin from UV damage. Patients should also avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and vigorous exercise, for at least two weeks or as advised by Dr. Verbin. Keeping the incisions clean and dry, taking prescribed medications and attending all follow-up appointments are vital to a smooth healing process.
Recovery from a facelift is a gradual process that typically unfolds over several weeks, with each stage requiring specific care and attention. Immediately following surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness in the face and neck. These symptoms are typical and part of the body’s natural healing process. During the first week, it is essential to focus on rest and allow your body to recover. Most patients will feel well enough to begin light activities, such as short walks, within a few days, but strenuous activities should be avoided.
By the end of the second week, much of the initial swelling and bruising will have subsided, and many patients feel comfortable enough to resume work or other daily activities, especially those that are not physically demanding. However, it is important to continue following all post-operative care instructions to avoid complications and promote the best possible healing.
Around the three-week mark, most patients find that they can return to their regular routine, although it may take several months for all facial swelling to completely dissipate and for the final results of the facelift to be fully visible. By following the recommended care regimen, patients can enjoy a smooth recovery and achieve the rejuvenated appearance they desire.
The longevity of facelift results is one of the key benefits that draw patients to this procedure. While the aging process cannot be stopped, a well-executed facelift can turn back the clock by several years, providing results that often last 10 to 15 years. The durability of these results is influenced by several factors, including the surgical technique used and your skin quality, lifestyle and aging process.
Patients with good skin elasticity and bone structure tend to experience longer-lasting results. Additionally, the surgical techniques employed by Dr. Verbin, such as the deep plane facelift, are designed to create more enduring outcomes by addressing the deeper layers of the face.
However, it’s important to note that while a facelift can dramatically improve bothersome signs of aging, the natural aging process will continue. Factors such as sun exposure, smoking and significant weight fluctuations can accelerate the appearance of new aging signs.
Maintaining the results of a facelift requires a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and consistent skincare practices. One of the most crucial aspects of post-facelift care is protecting your skin from sun damage. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a major contributor to premature aging, so wearing sunscreen with a high SPF daily is vital, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows. Additionally, wearing protective clothing, such as large hats, and seeking shade whenever possible can further shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
Another important factor in maintaining your anti-aging facelift results is avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Smoking, in particular, can impair blood flow to the skin and accelerate the breakdown of collagen, leading to a quicker return of wrinkles and sagging. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and healthy fats can also support skin health and prolong the youthful effects of your facelift.
Incorporating a good skincare regimen into your daily routine is essential for preserving the results of your facelift. This includes using high-quality, professional-grade skincare products, such as moisturizers, serums and retinoids, which can help maintain skin elasticity and reduce fine lines. Regular treatments, such as chemical peels, laser resurfacing or injectable treatments like Botox and dermal fillers, can complement your facelift and address any new signs of aging that may develop over time.
Finally, scheduling regular check-ups with Dr. Verbin allows for ongoing monitoring of your facelift results and ensures that any concerns are addressed promptly. These check-ups also provide an opportunity to discuss any additional treatments that may help maintain or enhance your results so you can continue to enjoy a refreshed and youthful appearance for as long as possible.
Discover Renewed Youth With a Facelift in Torrance, CA
At South Bay Aesthetics Plastic Surgery in Torrance, CA, we specialize in turning back the clock on aging with our facelifts. The facelift procedure we offer not only addresses the visible signs of aging but also restores facial harmony and contours, ensuring you receive the most personalized and effective treatment.
Embrace the opportunity to rejuvenate your appearance with the numerous benefits of a facelift, including enhanced facial contours, reduced signs of aging, and long-lasting results. We invite you to contact us online or call (310) 659-9500 for a consultation with us at South Bay Aesthetics Plastic Surgery.
