FACELIFT AT POWER PLASTIC SURGERY

Your face represents you. It’s what you show to the world each day, even as signs of aging begin to emerge. So, when it feels like your face doesn’t reflect your energy and youth, it’s time to explore your facelift options for the best in facial rejuvenation with the help of a board-certified plastic surgeon. Allow us to redefine your aging process with a natural, refreshed look.

At Power Plastic Surgery, we’re proud to offer some of the best natural facelift results in the Toronto area. With Dr. Stephanie Power, you can enjoy a rejuvenated look with some of the leading techniques in surgical facial rejuvenation. Dr. Power can create the ideal treatment plan for you using our best surgical and non-surgical treatments to ensure you get long-lasting, natural results.

"My patients are real women.
Mothers and next-door neighbors, not models."

- DR. STEPHANIE POWER

What is a Facelift?

Everyone ages differently—at different rates and in different ways. The process of visible facial aging is usually defined by slowed cellular activity and a breakdown of collagen in the skin. Over time, this causes aging signs like sagging skin, lines, wrinkles, and folds. If there’s any solution that can produce transformative, long-term results when it comes to aging, it’s the facelift. A facelift is a surgical procedure that can remove excess skin, reposition or remove fat, and tighten facial muscles for a more firm, toned, youthful appearance.

Non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments can be a great way to refresh your look and delay signs of aging, but they can’t address the deep layers of the facial skin and soft tissues that become loose and sag as time goes on. A facelift can re-suspend and tighten these structures for a comprehensive approach to antiaging.

When performing facelift surgery, it’s more important than ever for plastic surgeons to have a deep understanding of facial anatomy with an unparalleled eye for beauty and harmony. After all, since your face is what you present to the world, natural-looking, flattering results are a must. As an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Power can discuss your best options for effective anti-aging results during your private consultation for cosmetic surgery at our Toronto office.

Who is a Facelift Candidate?

Individuals who are bothered by sagging skin, lines, wrinkles, and folds can often benefit from a facelift procedure. Ideal candidates are overall healthy with realistic expectations regarding what to expect from this procedure. However, facelift surgery is not right for everyone; individuals with certain medical conditions or those who take certain medications may not be ideal candidates. The best way to determine if this procedure is right for you is through a consultation appointment with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Power.

If this procedure is deemed appropriate, you may be asked to stop or alter certain medications, such as blood thinners, and stop smoking, as this can result in poor wound healing.

How is a Facelift Performed?

There are various different forms of facelift techniques, each created to meet an individual’s unique anti-aging goals. These may include a mini facelift, mid facelift, SMAS facelift, deep plane facelift, and more. The facelift technique that is right for you will depend on various factors; these can be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Power.

A traditional facelift is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Power will make predetermined incisions that carefully follow the hairline and are concealed in front of and behind the ear. Then, the skin is lifted, and the underlying facial tissues are carefully tightened and repositioned. This creates a rejuvenated, natural look. Once complete, the skin is re-draped, and excess is trimmed away before the incisions are closed. You’ll wake up in the recovery room and stay overnight for observation in a private suite before returning home the following morning.

Facelift Recovery

Your facelift recovery is the most important part of your facial rejuvenation process. During this phase, you should follow Dr. Power’s aftercare instructions to help manage facial swelling and discomfort and to optimize healing. Redness and swelling are to be expected at the incision sites. For some, there may also be a temporary change of skin sensation on the face and neck during the healing process.

It’s important to arrange for help around your home for the first few days after surgery so you can rest and recover. You should avoid returning to work for 1-2 weeks and also avoid heavy lifting and exercise for 4-6 weeks. This recovery timeframe can look different for everyone, so Dr. Power will give you the best idea of what to expect.

During your follow-up appointments, Dr. Power will check your progress and answer any questions you may have. You’ll also receive Dr. Power’s contact information for any questions you have at home. Overall, you can expect to see your early results within one to two months and your final appearance in one year.

Procedures to Enhance Your Facelift

The facelift can easily be combined with other facial procedures. Some of the best options include fat transfer to the face to restore volume through a minimally invasive liposuction procedure. Liposuction can also be used to remove chin fat if you’re concerned about a double chin.

Other facial plastic surgery procedures like a brow lift or eyelid surgery can help rejuvenate the upper face along with your facelift results. These can be performed at the same time as a facelift and can drastically boost your look with all-around improvement.

Facelift FAQs

Does a facelift make you look younger?

A facelift generally makes you look 10-15 years younger.

How do I prepare for a facelift?

To prepare for a facelift, the most important recommendation is to stop smoking. If you are planning any weight loss, you should also achieve your target weight before surgery.

How long does it take for bruising on the face to go away?

Bruising on the face typically resolves within 7-10 days.

How many times can you get a facelift?

While there is no maximum number of times you can get a facelift, each surgery becomes more complicated due to additional scar tissue. Sometimes patients may decide to have a repeat facelift 10 years or so following the first one. It is uncommon to undergo a third facelift.

How much is a facelift?

The average cost of a facelift is $15000. Facelift is often combined with other anti-aging surgical procedures (for example, blepharoplasty or eye lift surgery). A tailored quote will be provided after your consultation outlining surgical, anesthesia, and facility fees.

What is a mid face lift?

A mid-face lift is a surgical procedure that addresses early signs of facial aging. It targets the skin and soft tissues of the cheeks and softens nasolabial and marionette lines. It does not address the jowls or redundant skin or banding of the neck.

What is a thread lift?

A thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure where temporary, absorbable sutures are suspended under the upper tissues of the face to visibly lift and tighten the skin. This may address mild skin laxity, however, results may not be as long-lasting as a facelift.

When should you get a facelift?

You should get a facelift when you have aesthetic concerns related to facial aging and have been deemed a healthy candidate for elective surgery.

Whos a good candidate for a facelift?

You may be a good candidate for a facelift if you're looking for long-term antiaging results and are healthy to undergo elective surgery. Additionally, it's important to have realistic expectations for what a facelift can achieve. With an experienced and board certified plastic surgeon, you can expect a more refreshed, younger-looking version of yourself rather than a new profile.

Whats the best age to get a facelift?

Everyone ages at different rates. This can depend on many different factors like genetics, skincare, and sun exposure. Generally, patients in their 50s and older often find the best results with a facelift. A good way to judge whether it's time for a facelift is whether you're still achieving the results you want with non-surgical options. When you're seeking more improvement than what non-surgical treatments can achieve or longer-lasting results, a surgical procedure is usually the next best step.

Whats the difference between a facelift and neck lift?

It's common to see the facelift and neck lift touted as separate procedures. Most often, patients who opt for a facelift also have cosmetic concerns in the neck, so a facelift and neck lift are usually performed together. However, it's possible to opt for a neck lift on its own if you have concerns under the chin. Dr. Power can give you the best idea of what to expect from a face or neck lift during your consultation.

How long does facelift last?

You can expect to enjoy your natural facelift results for up to 10-15 years after your procedure. It's important to keep in mind that a facelift won't stop the process of aging but rather rewinds it. To maintain your results, it's important to use the right skincare regimen and antiaging treatments, so Dr. Power can recommend your best options during your consultation.

How long does fat transfer face last?

There will be some resorption of fat transfer to the face. The amount of fat remaining by 6 months after surgery should be long-lasting.

How long is recovery from a facelift?

Recovery from a facelift is generally 1-2 weeks until you may feel comfortable in public and return to work. You may require pain medication for a few days after surgery. It is important to avoid exercise and heavy lifting for one month.

What is a facelift called?

A facelift is also called rhytidectomy. It is a surgical procedure that addresses signs of aging within the mid- and lower face as well as neck.

What is a non surgical facelift?

A non-surgical facelift is performed using facial fillers, most commonly hyaluronic acid injectables. Results from a non-surgical facelift are temporary and typically last up to one year.

What is best age for facelift?

The best age for a facelift depends on your aesthetic concerns, facial appearance, and overall medical health. If performed on younger patients (late 40s, early 50s), patients are often healthier but results will be less dramatic than if performed at a later stage.

What is the difference between a deep plane and SMAS facelift?

Deep plane and SMAS facelifts are two techniques to surgically correct signs of facial aging. During a deep plane facelift, the skin and facial muscles are elevated and lifted as a unit. There may be increased risk of nerve injury during a deep plane facelift as the motornnerves travel just below the muscles, which is the same plane as the dissection. A SMAS facelift is performed more superficially, elevating the skin and soft tissue just above the facial muscles. The muscles are then resuspended and stitched in place. Studies have shown similar results for both techniques.

What are common concerns of patients considering face and neck lift surgery?

Patients considering face and neck lift typically express concerns about signs of facial aging, including:nnSmile linesnDecreased skin elasticitynProminent rhytidsnJowl formationnRedundant skin or increased subcutaneous (fatty) fullness in the submental regionnPatients are often interested in more long-lasting facial rejuvenation than what may be achieved through lesser invasive options (e.g. soft tissue fillers).

How do I get rid of my double chins?

There are surgical and non-surgical options to help get rid of your double chins. Submental liposuction (liposuctions under the chin) may be effective if you have good skin elasticity. If loose skin is present, liposuction in combination with a necklift may be required. There are non-surgical injectable treatments that may also be an option, which will be discussed in consultation.

How do I reduce swelling in my face?

You may reduce swelling in your face by achieving a healthy body weight and following a low salt diet. Healthy sleep habits and drinking enough water throughout the day may also help.

How do you take care of your face after a facelift?

You may take care of your face after a facelift by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and not smoking. You should also follow a simple skin care routine consisting of topical vitamins A and C as well as sunscreen.

How long after a facelift can I exercise?

You may generally resume exercise at one month after a facelift.

How long do ears hurt after facelift?

Ears typically hurt for a week or so after facelift. They may also feel sensitive when sleeping on your side over the first month.

How painful is a facelift?

Facelift surgery is less painful than many cosmetic surgeries. Patients usually report mild discomfort over the first few days. Applying cold compresses and sleeping with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows may reduce discomfort.

Is a facelift permanent?

A facelift generally leads to long-lasting results, but is not considered permanent. Unfortunately there is no solution to the aging process. You will continue to age after facelift surgery, but you should always look younger at a given age.

What is a neck lift called?

A neck lift is also called lower rhytidectomy.

What post-surgery scarring can I expect?

Incisions and the resultant scars are meticulously placed, commonly extending from the sideburn hair region, around the ear concealed within natural skin creases, and then back within the hair-bearing scalp.

What is the anticipated recovery after a facelift?

Patients are discharged home the day after surgery once cleared by Dr. PowernThey are generally able to return to office-based work within 1-2 weeksnPatients may gradually increase their activity level over the first few weeks post-operatively, however strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided for 4-6 weeks to lower risk of delayed complications (specifically bleeding)nDr. Power will make individual recommendations for activity modifications based on each patient's responsibilities and interests. Swelling may linger for several months post-operatively. This is to be expected and should not cause alarm.nnFinal scar appearance and surgical outcome is apparent by one year post-operatively following scar maturation.

What are potential complications of facelift surgery?

Surgical site complications may arise following facelift including bleeding, hematoma formation, infection, facial nerve injury, and delayed wound or skin flap healing. Dr. Power generally performs a SMAS plication, which poses a lower risk of facial nerve injury vs. other techniques that involve incising the SMAS layer. Fortunately facial nerve weakness is uncommon following SMAS plication. If it does occur, the majority of cases are temporary and resolve within a few weeks of surgery. There are also systemic risks of facelift surgery, including venous thromboembolism and complications pertaining to the general anesthetic. Dr. Power will identify any pre-existing risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) before surgery. Precautions are taken to lower risk of venous thromboembolism for all patients, including compression stockings and sequential compression devices that prevent blood from pooling in the lower extremities during and shortly after surgery.nnPotential aesthetic complications may also develop, including asymmetry, over- or under-correction, dissatisfaction with cosmetic result, and specific complications generally relating to excess tension.nnDr. Power carefully performs each consultation and orders appropriate investigations (blood work and imaging) for patients considering facelift surgery in attempt to lower risk of complications.

Who's a good candidate for a facelift?

You may be a good candidate for a facelift if you're looking for long-term antiaging results and are healthy to undergo elective surgery. Additionally, it's important to have realistic expectations for what a facelift can achieve. With an experienced and board certified plastic surgeon, you can expect a more refreshed, younger-looking version of yourself rather than a new profile.

How often do you need a facelift?

Results from a facelift should be long-lasting. You will continue to age after a facelift, however should always appear younger at a given age than if you did not have a facelift performed. It is a myth that a facelift lasts 10 years, although some patients may wish to have a repeat facelift to address signs of ongoing facial aging in the future.

How long before you look normal after a facelift?

After a facelift the majority of bruising and swelling generally resolves within a couple of weeks. You should then feel presentable to run errands or return to office-based work. It takes one year after facelift surgery for complete resolution of swelling and for scars to mature, however these changes are more subtle and generally not noticeable to anyone else.

How long does the tightness last after a facelift?

Most tightness is experienced over the first couple of weeks, but residual tightness may last a few months after a facelift. This feeling gradually subsides as swelling resolves and the tissues settle into their new contours.

How can I tighten loose skin on my face?

There are many non-surgical treatments to help tighten loose skin on your face. Results may not be long-lasting. Facelift surgery is an effective procedure to tighten loose skin as well as to restore volume in the midface.

How do I tighten my jawline?

Your jawline may be tightened and refined with micro-liposuction during a facelift. The neck muscles (called the platysma) may also be lifted and stitched in place for further definition.

How do you reduce swelling after a facelift?

Following facelift surgery, you may reduce swelling in your face by sleeping with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows, performing cold compresses over the first 48 hours, and minimizing your activity level.

What can I expect from a facelift?

You may expect natural results from a facelift. You will still look like yourself, just a more refreshed version looking about 10 years younger.

What are different types of facelift surgery?

There are different planes of dissection (depth at which the flaps are elevated) and different techniques to address the superficial facial muscles (“SMAS” layer) to restore volume in the midface region during a facelift. One of the most commonly performed techniques is a SMAS plication, which involves stitching the muscles which have lost tone and descended over time to a higher position within the malar (cheek) region. Finally, a SMAS plication does not involve incising the facial muscles and carries a lower risk of injury to the underlying facial nerve and its branches.

How many hours does a facelift take?

A facelift generally takes about 3-4 hours to perform. The length may vary depending on the extent of surgery and whether any additional procedures are performed (e.g. eyelift surgery or facial fat grafting). It also takes time for the anesthesiologist to place you under general anesthetic and to wake you up at the completion of surgery. Dr. Power usually books facelifts for a full morning or afternoon.

How do you sleep after a facelift?

After your surgery, you should sleep on your back in an elevated position. This helps reduce swelling and removes pressure off your incisions.

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