Facelift: What’s Included? What is Not?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is one of the most effective cosmetic surgery procedures for reversing facial aging. If you’re considering facelift surgery, it’s important to understand which procedures are included and which ones are separate.

A facelift primarily focuses on repositioning facial tissue and tightening underlying muscles in the mid and lower face. Other procedures like eyelid surgery, forehead lift, and a neck lift are technically not part of facelift surgery but are often performed together for more comprehensive results.

The Facelift Procedure (Rhytidectomy) Overview

A facelift procedure is designed to lift and tighten sagging skin in the lower face and jawline. Over time, aging leads to loss of elasticity, deep wrinkles, and excess skin. Facelift surgery addresses these concerns by repositioning facial tissues, tightening the underlying structures, and removing excess skin.

This facial plastic surgery does not alter the forehead, eyes, or extensive areas of the neck. These additional procedures can be performed alongside a facelift to enhance the overall outcome.

Different Types of Facelift

Depending on your facial structure and goals, different types of facelifts may be recommended:

Full Facelift: This comprehensive surgical procedure addresses significant signs of aging in the lower two-thirds of the face, including sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and jowls.

Mid-Facelift: This surgical technique targets the middle portion of the face, specifically the cheeks and the area around the nose and mouth. This procedure lifts sagging tissues in the midface, restoring volume to the cheeks and reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds.

Mini Facelift: A cosmetic procedure that is a less invasive option that targets mild to moderate sagging in the lower face. It involves smaller incisions and a shorter recovery period, making it a popular choice for younger patients who want subtle rejuvenation.

Deep Plane Facelift: The deep plane facelift, works by lifting and repositioning deeper layers of facial tissue. This approach offers a more comprehensive lift with natural-looking results and less risk of a “pulled” appearance.

What’s Included in a Deep Plane Facelift Surgery?

During a deep plane facelift surgery, the plastic surgeon makes carefully placed incisions, usually along the hairline and around the ears, to access the underlying structures. The procedure typically includes:

• Repositioning and tightening the SMAS and deeper facial tissues to restore youthful contours
• Removing excess skin around the face and neck area to eliminate sagging
• Lifting and tightening the lower face and jawline for improved definition
• Closing incisions with sutures to ensure optimal healing and minimize recovery time .

Facelift surgery does not include procedures for the forehead, eyelids, or extensive work on the neck. Although these can be done in combination with a facelift for enhanced results.

What’s Not Included in a Facelift?

While a facelift is highly effective for tightening the lower face and jawline, it does not address aging concerns in the upper face, eyes, or neck. Many people assume that a facelift is a comprehensive anti-aging procedure, but in reality, it primarily targets sagging skin, jowls, and deep folds around the mouth.

If you’re looking for full-face rejuvenation, additional procedures may be required to address wrinkles, volume loss, and skin laxity in other areas.

Forehead Lift (Brow Lift)

A facelift does not correct drooping eyebrows or forehead wrinkles. A forehead lift, also known as a brow lift, is often performed separately to raise the brows, smooth forehead lines, and create a more refreshed appearance. This procedure can make a significant difference in how alert and youthful your expression looks.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

If your eyes appear tired due to sagging skin or puffiness, eyelid surgery may be necessary. Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin that can create a hooded look, while lower eyelid surgery eliminates bags and hollowness under the eyes. Combining this with a facelift enhances overall facial harmony.

Neck Lift

While a facelift improves the jawline, it does not address significant sagging in the neck. A full neck lift tightens loose skin, reduces the appearance of vertical neck bands, and eliminates excess fat deposits. If your primary concern is a sagging neck rather than the lower face, a standalone neck lift might be the better option.

Lip Lift

Aging affects the lips by elongating the space between the upper lip and the nose, which can make the face look older. A lip lift shortens this distance, enhancing lip shape and creating a more youthful, defined look. This procedure is not included in a facelift but can complement the results beautifully.

If you’re looking for complete facial rejuvenation, combining a facelift with these additional procedures can achieve a more balanced, youthful, and natural-looking result. During your consultation, your Clinique-K plastic surgeon will assess your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals to recommend the best combination of treatments for you.

Your Initial Facelift Consultation

During your facelift consultation, your surgeon will assess your facial structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the best surgical approach. Factors such as skin elasticity, facial aging, and medical history will help guide the procedure.

The consultation is also an opportunity to ask questions, review before-and-after photos, discuss facelift costs, and understand what results you can realistically expect from your facial rejuvenation surgery.

Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery

The First Few Days

After facelift surgery, you will experience some swelling and bruising, which is normal. Sutures and incisions are carefully placed to promote healing with minimal scarring. Patients are advised to keep their head elevated and avoid strenuous activities during the initial recovery period.

One to Two Weeks Post-Surgery

Most swelling and bruising begin to subside within the first two weeks. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities after this time, though some residual swelling may persist. Your surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

One Month and Beyond

By the one-month mark, the majority of swelling will have diminished, and you will start to see the full effects of your facelift. Final results will become more apparent over the next few months as your skin settles into its new position.

Side Effects and Possible Complications

As with any surgical procedure, facelift surgery carries some risks. Potential complications include:

• Scarring: While incisions are discreetly placed, some minimal scarring may occur.
• Swelling and Bruising: Most swelling resolves within a few weeks, but mild swelling may persist for longer.
• Nerve Injury: Temporary numbness or weakness in facial muscles is possible but usually resolves over time.
• Infection: Following post-operative care instructions can minimize the risk of infection.
• Hematoma: A collection of blood under the skin may require drainage if it occurs.

Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon and following all post-operative instructions can significantly reduce these risks and improve your overall results.

The Long-Term Benefits of a Facelift

A facelift provides long-lasting results, helping you look younger and more refreshed for years. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and skincare routine, you can extend the longevity of your facelift results. Patients often report increased confidence and satisfaction with their appearance following the procedure.

If you’re considering facelift surgery in Montreal, scheduling a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon will help you determine the best approach for achieving your aesthetic goals. Whether you opt for a deep plane facelift, a mini facelift, or additional procedures like a neck lift or eyelid surgery, a well-planned facelift can offer transformative and natural-looking results.

To learn more about facelift surgery we invite you to book a consultation at Clinique-K at our locations in Westmount and Longueuil.