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Q - What is a facelift?
The facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a plastic surgery procedure able to improve the appearance of sagging facial skin, jowls and loose neck skin. The procedure can effectively turn back the clock on visual aging, uncovering the lost youthfulness of the face.
Q - Who is a candidate for a facelift?
Men and women who are in good health and want to look more youthful may be good candidates for a facelift.
Q - What should I expect during a consultation for a facelift?
During the consultation for a facelift, Dr. Vitenas will go over your complete medical history, take the time to understand your goals, and answer all of your questions. You will see pre-op and post-op photos of previous facelift patients, and computer imaging will be used to help you visualize your own personal results. Dr. Vitenas will discuss reasonable and expected outcomes, and explain the details of the procedure including the technique, the recovery, the risks, the costs, and financing options.
Q - Where is the surgery for a facelift performed?
Dr. Vitenas performs the facelift at the Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital or its affiliated outpatient facility, the Day Surgery Center. There is usually with an overnight stay for the patient’s comfort.
Q - What type of anesthesia is used for the facelift?
The facelift is usually performed with general anesthesia.
Q - How is the facelift performed?
For the facelift, an incision is made which starts at the temples in the hairline and extends inside the front of the ear, ending in the hairline behind the ear. For the most natural and relaxed look, Dr. Vitenas uses a dual-plane technique which addresses both the skin and the deeper tissues (SMAS) with multiple vector lifting and reshaping.
Q - How long is the surgery for a facelift?
The surgery for a facelift is about four to six hours in length.
Q - Where are the incisions made for the facelift?
The incision for the facelift starts at the temples in the hairline, extends inside the front of the ear, and ends in the hairline behind the ear.
Q - Does the facelift leave scars?
Patients will have a scar after the facelift, though it tends to be well-concealed within the hairline and natural creases of the face and ears.
Q - Is the facelift a painful procedure?
Pain usually isn’t significant after the facelift, though medication can be taken to manage any discomfort that patients do experience.
Q - How long is the recovery after a facelift?
The recovery after a facelift takes about two weeks.
Q - What is the recovery like after a facelift?
Patients can expect a recovery time of about two weeks after the facelift. Swelling and bruising may occur, with most of the bruising fading in two to three weeks. Numbness of the skin may also occur.
Q - When will I be able to return to work after my facelift surgery?
Patients are often able to return to work within two weeks after the facelift.
Q - When will I be able to exercise after my facelift procedure?
Patients will need to postpone strenuous activities and work for four to six weeks after the facelift.
Q - When are the stitches removed after the facelift?
The stitches are typically removed on the fifth and tenth days after the facelift surgery.
Q - What are the risks or possible complications of the facelift?
The potential risks or complications associated with the facelift may include bleeding, infection, hematoma, nerve injury, and delayed wound healing.
Q - Is the cost of the facelift covered by insurance?
While patients should consult with their own insurance carrier, facelifts are generally not covered by insurance.
Q - Is it possible to get finance my facelift procedure?
There are financing options available for plastic surgery, and Dr. Vitenas will discuss these with you during your initial facelift consultation. You may also visit the following website: http://www.cosmeticfeeplan.com/.




