For decades, facelifts have helped individuals reduce visible signs of aging. While recovery takes time, most people resume normal activities within two weeks, and results improve as healing progresses. Ideal candidates are typically healthy individuals in their 40s or 50s with moderate skin laxity.
Despite advances in technique and technology, misconceptions about facelifts still persist. If you're considering the procedure, it’s important to separate fact from fiction.
Five Facelift Myths Busted
- Myth: A facelift will make my skin look unnaturally stretched.
Fact: Mention the word facelift and many of us will conjure up images of a celebrity or public figure showcasing that dreaded “wind tunnel” look. In fact, that era of looking “operated on” has long passed. Unlike the facelifts of a previous generation, where the skin was simply pulled back, the contemporary facelift is much more refined. Far from being a superficial solution, it focuses mostly on the deeper layers of the face. By repositioning the underlying muscles and the removal of excess fat, an artful cosmetic surgeon can lift, tighten, and achieve incredibly natural-looking results. - Myth: Dermal fillers and Botox offer the same benefits as a facelift.
Fact: Non-invasive therapies such as injectable fillers and Botox are excellent options that can be employed to refresh your face–but only up to a point. These solutions are suitable for plumping the skin and smoothing out lines and creases, but they will not address the deeper structural issues and excess sagging skin. In addition, they will not yield the long-term benefits of a facelift, which can last up to 10 years. And, in contrast to permanent fillers, a facelift ages better. - Myth: A facelift can eradicate creases and wrinkles.
Fact: In essence, a facelift is designed to address and give definition to the lower portion of the face, including the jawline and neck area. It lifts, not erases lines. However, when done in combination with other cosmetic treatments, such as chemical peels or laser treatments for the skin, the rejuvenating effects can be maximized. - Myth: Over time, a facelift will not age well.
Fact: Again, the facelift has come a long way since the early days. A skilled cosmetic surgeon will use a combination of techniques and integrate new technologies, such as fat replacement, to ensure that the face will age with a natural grace. - Myth: A facelift can be done by any plastic surgeon.
Fact: A facelift is a part of a continuum of rejuvenating treatments, so experience counts when choosing a surgeon. It is important to work with a surgeon who is not only highly qualified and experienced in performing a facelift procedure, but one who has expertise applying the most advanced non-invasive treatments available today. As a rhytidectomy specialist and practitioner who has pioneered new techniques with non-invasive therapies, Dr. Westreich can assess the potential and limitations of the different procedures. As a result, he can see clearly how to customize his approach to suit an individual face. - Myth: A facelift will erase nasolabial folds.
Fact: A facelift is designed predominantly to lift the lower face below the mouth corners as well as the neck. While some facelifting techniques, such as a deep plane, are designed to provide better midface elevation, they do not provide substantial and enduring results in the nasolabial folds. Midface lifts, implants, and fillers are still the primary ways in which the nasolabial folds are corrected. Non-surgical treatments, such as Exilis radiofrequency tightening, can provide additional improvements in the midface and nasolabial folds.
Your Facelift Consultation With Dr. Westreich
Dr. Westreich, a double-board certified plastic surgeon, specializes in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. If you are considering undergoing a facelift to improve your appearance, contact his office. Dr. Westreich can guide you on how best to achieve your goals, recommending the most effective, comprehensive, and personalized treatment plan.
