FACELIFT AND NECKLIFT
Dr. Harvey is an expert surgeon in helping patients look refreshed and natural using surgical techniques for the face that he has perfected through years of experience. As a leading provider of cosmetic procedures, Dr. Harvey ensures that patients achieve optimal surgical results in a safe state-of-the-art facility located in the Nob Hill area of San Francisco.
FACELIFT & NECKLIFT Q&A
What is a Face Lift?
Facelift surgery will vary from patient to patient as each face has its own unique structure. A facelift is a surgical procedure used to counteract the visible signs of the aging process. This works by:
· Correcting sagging in the middle of the face
· Repositioning the fat which has fallen in the face
· Improving jowls to create a more defined and youthful jawline
· Removing loose skin from the face
· Tightening the facial muscle tone
During the surgical operation, an incision is made at the temples and ends towards the bottom of the hairline. After any excess fat is removed the skin is then tightened across the face to give a smoother and more youthful appearance.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that works to tighten the muscles of the neck, removes excess fat, and excess skin which gives a more youthful appearance to the neck. Depending on the amount of skin which needs to be removed, the techniques will vary. The extent of muscle tightening needed will also be a factor affecting the neck lift technique used.
What can I expect as far as results?
Following surgery, as the inflammation subsides, the skin of the face or neck should look younger and refreshed. Following surgery, most patients have some swelling and bruising which will subside greatly in a matter of days and continue subsiding for about 3 to 4 weeks. Dr. Harvey will provide aftercare instructions for the face and neck as they heal. This can include a daily routine of sun protection, avoiding tight clothing which must be pulled over the head, and other recommendations designed to promote recovery. Dr. Harvey will be sure to work with you to create a treatment plan designed to help you achieve the best possible results.
When should I consider a Face Lift or Neck Lift?
When considering a facelift, it is very important to not only choose a surgeon with whom you feel confident, but to also choose one based on education, training and certification. Being a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), you can be assured that Dr. Harvey is highly qualified and experienced. ASAPS members must be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Be cautious as there are other similar sounding ‘Societies’ out there and it is not against the law for a physician who is board certified in another specialty to perform Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. In fact, it is possible for any given specialty to form a society of its own members which can cause great confusion for the patient.
A well-performed facelift is the pinnacle of a skilled Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Another term for a facelift is rhytidectomy. Depending on the specifics of the procedure it may also be labeled a lower face lift with neck lift. Another term you might hear is a smas facelift wherein the platysma muscle is tightened during surgery. Each of these surgical procedures is designed to correct some or all of the following:
· Aged face
· Loose sagging skin of the face and neck
· Deepening folds in the cheek, jowl and neck areas.
The ideal result is one that is subtle and natural-looking. Less is more when performing an optimal face lift. The goal is for you to look like a better version of yourself.
For those who wish to address the signs of aging without going under the knife, or for those who would like to put surgery off, a liquid face lift is a viable option. From an aesthetic standpoint, the results can be quite impressive. Through the use of injectable dermal fillers (e.g. Restylane, Juvederm) and relaxers (e.g. Botox and Dysport), a re-contouring and smoothing of the face can be achieved. Excessive fat under the chin can now be addressed as well with an FDA approved injectable treatment called Kybella. In order to maintain the results that injectables provide, periodic touch-ups for some treatments may be necessary.
What is a Brow Lift?
The browlift is also known as forehead lift.
You may be a candidate for a brow lift if any of the following are present: (This procedure is often performed in conjunction with a facelift.)
• You have sagging eyebrows resulting an appearance you are not happy with
• You have deep horizontal creases across your forehead or deep furrows between your brows