18 Nov Today’s Facelifts Probably Aren’t What You Think They Are
Mention a facelift and people probably have some very outdated ideas. RefinedMD is home to double board certified Dr. Sudeep Roy who specializes in facelifts and mini facelifts in San Jose, and he’s committed to helping patients understand just how advanced today’s plastic surgeries are. The roots of facelifts are deep, with some medical literature of the nineteenth century referencing this procedure. Facelifts actually have relatively “simple” beginnings that have evolved to become incredibly intricate and complicated—which means you don’t want just anyone performing your San Jose facelift or mini lift.
In the 1980s and 1990s, facelifts typically only addressed the skin. That’s what led to that fake “wind swept” look. Fortunately, a lot has changed in the last 20+ years. Today’s facelifts also address the underlying tissue, which means that results are still dramatic but yet natural, safer, and last longer. However, it’s impossible to say exactly what your unique facelift will entail because everyone is different—so your facelift should be individualized, too.
Which Facelift is Right for You?
There are many different techniques when it comes to facelifts, many of which have garnered colloquial names. However, facelifts can be broken down into two categories: “full” facelifts and mini facelifts. Talking to your surgeon during a consultation is your opportunity to address any concerns you may have and to create your customized plan. Sometimes patients don’t realize that what they actually want and need isn’t a facelift at all, but an upper and lower eyelid surgery! Also known as blepharoplasty, it’s very common to combine facial plastic surgeries, especially since a facelift only addresses the lower half of the face and the neck.
There are numerous recent research articles published on facelifts, but ultimately there’s no gold standard. It’s important for patients to see several doctors for consultations in order to find the best for them. However, do make sure that your potential surgeon has at least one board certification (surprisingly, it’s perfectly legal to practice medicine without being board-certified).
The Age of the Facelift
Many people wonder if they’re the “right age” for a facelift, but there’s no such thing. Determining if you’re a good candidate for a facelift (and which one) is more about the skin’s and tissue’s appearance rather than a number. Many people start to notice some laxity in their 40s, especially around their neck, and they want to nip the problem in the bud right away. A few of these patients might be a good fit for a facelift, but more often than not a mini facelift is a better procedure for this demographic. Non-surgical treatments such as a chemical peel can also complement surgery at this age.
However, for those who are good candidates for a facelift or mini lift in their 40s, they’re in luck. Their skin is still relatively elastic and resilient, so they will enjoy exceptional results—but don’t worry if your 40s are (well) behind you. Many great candidates for a facelift are in their 60s and 70s. In the end, if you’ve started to think about a facelift and have noticed some laxity in the face or neck, right now is the best time to schedule a consultation.
Facelift Facts
A mini facelift is just what it sounds like. It’s less aggressive, the incisions are shorter and smaller, and the downtime isn’t as long. However, even a full facelift heals quicker than most people expect. A lot of patients return to many of their daily activities just one week after a facelift. The first week or two is the most intense period for swelling and bruising, but with today’s mask-wearing norms it’s easy to hide surgical procedures. In fact, many patients have been taking advantage of this to get their desired surgeries completed!
Most patients will feel almost entirely “back to normal” about six weeks after a full facelift, but technically healing will take around six months. The incision sites are artfully hidden in the crevices of the ears, making it impossible for anyone but a trained professional to spot them. Do keep in mind that the face and underlying tissue will continue to “settle” in the coming months, so you will keep seeing improvement well after your surgery.
Ready to learn more about San Jose facelifts and mini facelifts? Connect with Dr. Sudeep Roy at RefinedMD today and schedule a consultation. Call the office, start an online chat, or fill out the online form for the quickest response.