As the face ages, certain characteristic changes occur. The skin loosens and some of the youthful fat descends and shrinks. The face begins to take on a more rectangular appearance as jowls develop and the skin under the neck sags. Fine forehead lines become creases which gradually become deeper folds. Beneath the chin, another chin or vertical folds appear at the front of the neck. Personal habits, heredity, the effect of gravity, and sun exposure can contribute to the aging of the face.

Dr. Honrado utilizes the entire spectrum of treatment options to reduce the signs of aging and turn back the clock. The goal is for you to have a natural, un-operated appearance using techniques proven to have predictable and long-lasting results.

Is a Facelift for you?
Understanding the limitations of rhytidectomy is crucial since there is no ideal facelift. The ultimate goal is to improve the overall appearance of your features. Skin type, age, ethnic background, bone structure, degree of skin elasticity and individual healing are factors that will be discussed by Dr. Honrado prior to proceeding with surgery. A facelift cannot stop the aging process – it cannot turn back the clock. However, a facelift can help your face look its best and give you a look of health and more youthful appearance. You may also experience an increase in your self-confidence. Based on realistic expectation and his medical expertise, Dr. Honrado will discuss the process and answer specific questions about your specific needs.

Dr. Honrado will also discuss whether the overall effect of the facelift will be more successful if additional changes are made in the chin and neck areas through other facial procedures. You may decide to undergo facial liposuction to remove excess fatty deposits in conjunction with a facelift.

Making The Decision For A Facelift
During the consultation, Dr. Honrado will examine the structure of your face, skin texture, elasticity, and color. Photographs may also be taken so your face can be studied. Dr. Honrado will go over any medical conditions such as high blood pressure, scar tendency, smoking, and any deficiency in blood clotting to determine your individual risk for surgery. Because a realistic attitude is crucial to the success of the surgery, the surgical procedure and realistic expectations will also be discussed.

Anticipated Outcome

Understanding The Surgery
The surgical incisions are hidden, beginning in the temporal hairline and extending slightly behind the ear canal. It then passes around the earlobe continuing up behind the ear, and back into the hair of the scalp. The skin is raised outward before Dr. Honrado repositions and tightens the underlying muscle and connective tissue. Some fat may be removed, as well as excess skin. In men, the incision is aligned to accommodate the natural beard lines. In all cases, the incision is placed where it will fall in a natural crease of the skin for camouflage.

Deep absorbable sutures are used to tighten the underlying tissue. Then after trimming the excess skin, fine sutures are used to close the incision. Following the surgery, a dressing will be applied to protect the entire area where the incisions have been made. The facelift procedure takes about three to four hours to perform under general anesthesia. It is an outpatient procedure and you may go home a few hours after surgery.

What To Expect After The Surgery
Even though most patients experience very little pain after surgery, Dr. Honrado will prescribe pain medication, an antibiotic and occasionally steroids. Some degree of swelling and bruising is unavoidable and the use of cold compresses to keep swelling to a minimum may be beneficial. Keeping your head elevated when lying down is encouraged and you want to avoid as much activity as possible. You should report any undue discomfort immediately to Dr. Honrado and his staff.

Occasionally, a drainage tube may be inserted during surgery. This will be removed on the first or second day after surgery. All sutures and staples are usually removed within five to 10 days following surgery. You should also avoid any vigorous activity until you are told to do so by Dr. Honrado. It may be helpful to prearrange for post-surgery support from family and friends.

Recovery usually takes two to three weeks, though many patients go back to work in two weeks. Scars are usually not noticeable after enough time has passed for them to mature. In any case, they are easily disguised in natural skin creases, by the hair, or, in persistent cases, by makeup until total healing has occurred. Bear in mind that the aging process continues after surgery and that some relaxation of tissues will occur over the first few weeks.
Facial plastic surgery makes it possible to correct many facial flaws and signs of premature aging that can undermine self-confidence. By changing how you look, cosmetic surgery can help change how you feel about yourself.

Insurance does not generally cover surgery what is done purely for cosmetic reasons. Surgery to correct or improve genetic deformity or traumatic injury may be reimbursable in whole or in part.

Ancillary Procedures to Face & Neck lift