The facelift is a plastic surgery procedure designed to elevate, mobilize and reposition sagging and aging skin and muscles of the face and neck. This is an excellent procedure that is best performed under local anesthesia at younger ages. Today, the longest lasting and most natural results are achieved by working on the deepest layer of facial tissue and muscle, known as the SMAS or Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System.
Miami facelift surgery can be performed on any healthy individual between thirty-five and eighty-five years of age. The goal of the facelift is to create a natural appearance and enhance a more youthful look without evidence of pulling or facial distortion. When properly done, the result should be undetectable.
Dr. Richard Galitz performs facelift surgery in the office surgical suite at Aventura Plastic Surgery in Aventura, Florida, or in a nearby outpatient facility or hospital depending on the health and needs of the individual patient. The facelift is performed with local anesthesia about 80% of the time, and with IV sedation about 20% of the time. Surgical times can vary dramatically, with simple elevation performed under local anesthesia taking as little as one hour, and more extensive surgeries taking up to four or more hours.
The incision for the facelift is located at the hairline along the temples and the ear and continuing behind the ear into the scalp. Through this incision, Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Galitz will perform SMAS placation, suction excess fat from the neck and chin, and trim excess skin. Recovery after the facelift takes approximately one to two weeks and may include some swelling, bruising, numbness and discomfort. Discomfort can be alleviated with medication and swelling can be minimized by keeping the head elevated during the first few days. It may take several weeks for the bruising to fully fade. The stitches are removed after one week, at which time most patients are able to return to work. Exercise and more strenuous activities can be resumed after one to three weeks.
Complications are possible with any surgery. For facelift surgery, there is the rare risk of skin loss and infection and, even less common, facial nerve injury. Choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who is board certified can help to maximize your facelift results while minimizing your risk.
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Dr. Galitz's Aventura office surgery facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. Read more
