Facelift
Facelifting, also known as rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the face by reducing visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, sagging and loss of skin elasticity. It is a popular intervention sought after by people who want to restore a more youthful, revitalized appearance to their face and neck.
During a facelift, the plastic surgeon makes strategically placed incisions around the ears and, in some cases, along the hairline. These incisions allow the surgeon to access the deeper layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, where most signs of aging occur. Excess skin is removed and the underlying tissues are repositioned and sutured to create a firmer, more toned appearance.
There are several facelifting techniques available, including:
Traditional facelift: This technique involves incisions along the hairline, down around the ears and, in some cases, extending into the temporal region. The surgeon repositions the facial muscles, removes excess skin, and closes the incisions with fine sutures.
SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System) Facelift: This technique is more comprehensive, addressing not only the skin but also deeper tissues such as the SMAS, which is a layer of connective tissue underlying the skin. This allows for longer-lasting and natural results, as muscles and tissues are repositioned to restore facial contour and lost volume.
Mini-incision facelift: This technique is less invasive than traditional facelift and involves smaller incisions, usually around the ears. It is ideal for patients with mild to moderate signs of aging and offers faster recovery and fewer visible scars.
In addition to facelifting, patients can also opt for complementary procedures, such as eyebrow lifting, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) and facial fillers, to obtain more comprehensive results.
Recovery after facelifting can take a few weeks, during which patients may experience swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort. It is important to follow all plastic surgeon instructions regarding rest, incision care and activity restrictions during this period. Most patients can resume normal activities gradually after a few weeks, and the final results of facelifting usually become visible as the swelling subsides and the tissues settle.
The results of facelifting can be significant, providing a more rejuvenated, firmer and toned appearance to the face and neck, with a substantial improvement in self-confidence and self-esteem. However, it is important to highlight that facelifting is a surgery and involves risks, such as infection, bleeding, facial asymmetry and unsatisfactory healing. Therefore, it is essential that patients choose an experienced plastic surgeon certified by the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery and follow all pre- and post-operative guidelines carefully to ensure the best results and minimize risks.
