The facelift is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic procedures today. Still, questions and misconceptions about the procedure abound. Here, Mt. Vernon facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Grant M.D., F.A.C.S., sets the record straight on common questions about the facelift.
Is Surgery Necessary?
The answer depends on your facial structure or anatomy, as well as your cosmetic needs and goals. If you have advanced signs of aging on the middle and lower facial areas, including volume loss on the cheeks, creases around the mouth and underneath the lower eyelids, displaced fat and loose skin on the cheeks and jawline (“jowls”), a surgical facelift may be your best choice. A surgical facelift is also a good choice if you desire a long-lasting effect and the most dramatic results.
However, if you have mild to moderate wrinkle lines and little to no loose skin, surgery may not be necessary. Instead, Dr. Grant may recommend a non-surgical facelift. Non-surgical facelifts with cosmetic injectables can be effective in the right patients when used for the right reasons but it should be noted that results are temporary.
Dr. Grant can discuss the pros and cons of all your treatment options in detail with you during an in-office consultation.
Will My Results Look Fake or Artificial?
An artificial, botched or obvious facelift is only the result of a poorly performed procedure. When in the hands of an experienced and exceptionally trained facelift surgeon like Dr. Grant, your facelift results should look very natural. The surgeon is very meticulous in his surgical approach in order to avoid over-correction or poor results. The goal is for you to look like a younger and more refreshed version of yourself.
Will My Scars be Noticeable?
The degree of scarring and whether it’s noticeable or not depends on several factors. The incisions for a facelift are usually placed within natural skin folds the hairline and behind the ears, so scarring is usually concealed. The surgeon’s incision technique and how well you care for your healing scars are also important. Dr. Grant will discuss scarring with you during the consultation phase, and explain the steps he takes to minimize scarring.
How Much Time Will I Need to Take Off Work?
Most patients take one to two weeks off from work to recover from surgery. If you work a sedentary job, you may be ready to return before the two-week mark. However, if your job is very strenuous, you may need to request more time off, in order to give your body enough time to heal.
Dr. Grant is here to answer all of your questions regarding a facelift or other facial cosmetic procedures he performs at his Mt. Vernon practice. Contact our office by calling or emailing us today.
