Dr. Benjamin Chu

procedures

Facelift

​A Facelift (Rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure designed to smooth and firm the skin, providing a fresh, youthful appearance. Throughout one’s life, the sun’s radiation, stress, gravity, and other factors cause the skin to sag and fit more loosely. In addition the face loses volume and the midface looks more hollow.

Facial cosmetic surgery has come a long way since its humble beginnings. The advancement in technology alone has provided the industry with a much broader range of facial surgical options. We offer a variety of facial surgery and rejuvenation procedures that will enhance the natural beauty of your face.

Before and After - Eyelid Surgery

*Results vary from person to person

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a corrective procedure that can reduce the “bags” under the eyes, remove excess wrinkles, and provide a more youthful appearance to the eyes. One of the first things noticed about a person is their eyes. During the aging process, wrinkles, lines, and puffiness contribute to a tired or aged appearance. The blepharoplasty surgery is often performed in conjunction with other facial procedures such as a face lift (rhinoplasty) or nose surgery.

Areas of the face and neck, in particular around the jaw line, are especially prone to the aging process.
Though these changes are gradual, wrinkles and other signs of aging can make individuals “feel older” than they really are.

Before and After - Facelift*

*Results vary from person to person

Surgery for a facelift involves the elevation and realignment of facial and neck skin, and in some instances the restoration of volume with fat transfers. If you see yourself in a younger photo there is often a much fuller cheek and smooth contour of the face. The goal of a facial rejuvenation is to restore the contour and volume of a younger you. A facelift is often performed in combination with other facial cosmetic procedures such as a browlift and blepharoplasty and can be performed any time signs of aging begin to appear. However, patients are generally in their forties or older when they elect to undergo this procedure.

Reasons for Considering a Facelift

Sagging skin, muscles, and fat in the face and neck.
Excess skin and fat on the neck.
Sagging jaw line.
Crease lines along the nose, mouth, and chin.
Loss of facial volume with aging

General Procedure

The standard procedure for a facelift commonly involves making small incisions just inside the hairline, following the contour along the edge of the ear, and continuing under the earlobe to the backside of the ear and to the lower scalp. Tissue and fat deposits are separated, the skin is stretched and tightened, and any excess skin is removed. If the neck line requires attention, an additional incision is made under the chin and the sagging neck muscles are tightened to eliminate the turkey neck. Minuscule stitches are used to close the incisions and to minimize visible scarring. Metal clips or staples may also be utilized in the hairline.

A face lift may take several hours or longer depending on whether other cosmetic procedures are completed at the same time. Sometimes other procedures may be performed in separate appointments. There are several different facelift techniques that can be employed. Patients can discuss with their physician which method is best for them when they come in for their consultation.

Recovery Process

Immediately after surgery, the face is fitted with bandages in order to decrease the recovery time and to reduce swelling. Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing and recovery process. The stitches, clips or staples are normally removed within a week. Patients sometimes report some minor pain associated with surgery. Any discomfort can be treated effectively with oral medication and pain pump. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given after the procedure.