Recovery
1-2 Weeks
Surgery Length
2-6 Hours
Anesthesia Type
Varies
Insurance
Not Covered
What Is a Facelift (Rhytidectomy) and Neck Lift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to rejuvenate the appearance of the face by lifting and tightening the skin and underlying tissues. It is often sought by individuals who want a refreshed look and to address the signs of aging, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines, that have become more noticeable over time.
During a facelift, the surgeon will make incisions in or at the hairline or behind the ears, and then remove excess skin and fat to tighten the deeper tissues. The underlying tissues may also be tightened to create a smoother and more youthful appearance. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and the patient is typically given a compression garment to wear during the initial recovery period.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with a facelift. While the majority of people do well with this procedure, complications may occur with this or any other surgical procedure. The surgical complication risk with facelifts is generally less than 2%, which is similar to other cosmetic procedures. It is important for patients to carefully consider the risks and benefits of the procedure and discuss their concerns and expectations with their surgeon before making a decision.
A facelift is a surgical procedure and should be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing facial procedures. A facelift will not completely stop the aging process, but can help to turn back the clock and achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
What is a Mini-Facelift? What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A mini-facelift is a term used to denote a more limited facelift procedure that typically focuses on achieving improvement in appearance of the jawline, but does not typically involve improvement in the neck or cheekbone area. A mini-facelift can often be performed under minimal anesthesia, and recovery is often faster compared with more conventional facelift procedures. However, the results may be more modest compared with conventional or deep-plane facelifts. The extent of the release of the deeper tissues under the skin is what differentiates a deep-plane facelift from the more limited results that are achieved with mini-lifts.
Overall, a facelift can be a highly effective way to improve the appearance of the face and achieve a refreshed look. With proper care and maintenance, the results of a facelift can last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for those who want to achieve a more youthful appearance.
Dr. Andrew W. Joseph is a fellowship-trained and double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Joseph has extensive experience in facial plastic surgery. Each person is unique, and facelift is a procedure that requires customization.
Every patient will receive a comprehensive evaluation and customized surgical plan during consultation. Our surgeons will take their time to listen to your concerns and discuss everything with you in detail. We will then work together with you to design an individualized surgical plan optimized for you.
Our surgeons specialize in the latest techniques. Learn more about why patients choose us.
Some of the common reasons patients choose to undergo rhinoplasty include the following:
- Improved appearance of the cheeks and neck
- Improvement in jowl area
- Skin redundancy in neck
- Improve flattening of the cheekbone area
Facelift surgery is typically performed with patients under twilight anesthesia or fully asleep. We individualize the plan for anesthesia based on the surgical plan, patient preference, whether additional procedures are planned, and the patient's overall health.
Most patients who present to our office are eligible for facelift surgery. However, there are patients with some conditions who may be at greater risk for undergoing facelift surgery or who may not receive a significant benefit from the procedure. For example, patients with other medical conditions that prevent them for stopping blood thinners, patients who are unable to stop nicotine or tobacco use, and patients with certain connective tissue or bleeding disorders.
Surgical recovery varies from person to person, and also depends on the planned extent of the surgery. Most patients are able to return to work within a week after surgery. The majority of swelling will dissipate within the first several weeks after surgery. Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort after surgery, and most do not need more than 3-4 days of pain medications. Following surgery, most patients will be seen in the office 1-2 days following surgery, as well as a week after surgery to evaluate healing.
Please refer to our additional resources for general pre-operative and post-operative instructions.
A facelift surgery is not considered a covered benefit under most health insurance plans.
Some patients who undergo facelift may choose to undergo a neck lift, upper or lower eyelid lifts, eyebrow, and skin resurfacing procedures. At your one-on-one consultation, we will work with you to build a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Yes. Out of respect for our patients' privacy we do not currently publish these on our website. You may view representative before and after photos here. Please contact us for more information.
Schedule A Consultation
If you are interested in learning more about getting a facelift or neck lift in Michigan, please contact us to schedule a personal consultation. Our surgeons will listen to your concerns, perform a comprehensive assessment, and discuss with you a management plan tailored to your needs. We are located in Troy, Michigan and see patients from many surrounding communities including Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield, Rochester Hills, Rochester, and the rest of Metro Detroit and Southeastern Michigan.