Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

As we age, two things occur in our face. We lose the soft tissue volume, particularly in our cheeks. We also lose elasticity in the tissues, meaning that our skin stretches more. This results in the tissues sagging. This is why we develop jowls instead of having a nice smooth jaw line. It is also why our lower eyelids and cheeks sag. In order to rejuvenate the face and turn back the clock, the soft tissue needs to be elevated back to its original position and volume needs to be added.

To accomplish this, the individual facial features need to be analyzed to determine the best approach. This may include a number of "facelift" procedures such as the more common "SMAS” facelift, which is the classic facelift. It may require a lateral facelift, which redefines the jaw line, and a small amount of neck lift.

There is the mid-facelift, which elevates the cheek and lower eyelid, as well as help smooth out the nasolabial fold. In addition to facelifts, some patients may require volume addition using either permanent implants or injectable fillers. The implants are primarily used to augment the cheek, chin, and lips.

The injectable fillers can be used in this area as well as many smaller areas of need. The most common fillers are Juvederm, Restylane and Perlane, which are hyaluronic acid fillers and last about one year. ArteFill is a permanent filler but is limited to augmenting the cheek, nasolabial fold, and marionette lines.