About Facelift (rhytidectomy)
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the face and neck, such as:
Relaxation of the skin of the face causes sagging
Deepening of the fold lines between the nose and corner of the mouth
Fat that has fallen or has disappeared
Jowls developing in the cheeks and jaw
Loose skin and excess fat on the neck that can appear as a double chin or "turkey neck"
The loss of youthful contours in the face can be due to a variety of factors, including thinning of the skin, loss of facial fat, gravity, sun damage, smoking, as well as heredity, and stress. Other procedures that might be performed in conjunction with a facelift are brow lifts and eyelid surgery to rejuvenate aging eyes. Fat transfer or fillers may be suggested to replace the lost fatty volume. Skin treatments such as IPL, dermabrasion, peels, or laser may be offered to improve the quality and texture of the skin.
Types of facelift procedures
Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to give the face a more youthful appearance. There are several types of facelift surgeries, each tailored to address specific signs of aging.
Traditional Facelift: This is the most comprehensive type of facelift which addresses sagging skin, deep folds, and other signs of aging across the entire face. During a traditional facelift, a flap of skin on each side of the face is pulled back, and tissues below the skin are altered to give the face a more youthful shape.
Mini Facelift: Patients with a mild degree of sagging skin are often good candidates for a mini-facelift. This is a less invasive technique that allows a cosmetic surgeon to tighten deep facial tissues through smaller incisions.
Neck Lift: A neck lift is often done as part of a facelift to reduce fat and sagging skin on the neck. It can address issues like a double chin or "turkey neck".
Mid-Facelift: A mid-facelift lifts the tissues around the cheeks to improve the look of the lower eyelids and cheeks.
Each type of facelift surgery has its own set of benefits and is chosen based on the patient’s aesthetic goals, the area of the face that needs to be addressed, and the degree of facial aging. It’s important to note that a facelift won’t correct damage from sun exposure, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Other cosmetic procedures can address the look or quality of the skin itself.
How does a Facelift work?
During a facelift, your surgeon repositions fat and tissue under the skin to:
Facelift Side Effects
Facelift Recovery
Patients should be able to get back to their normal routine activities after a month. But it probably will take 6 months or more to see the final result of the surgery.
Facelift Procedure
How painful is a facelift?
Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a procedure designed to reduce the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. While the thought of surgery can be daunting, it’s important to note that pain after a facelift is usually minimal.
During the procedure, patients are typically under general anesthesia or conscious sedation, so they do not feel any pain. After the surgery, patients may experience some discomfort due to swelling, tightness, or itchiness rather than pain. This discomfort is most pronounced in the first few days after the surgery.
Pain management is a crucial part of post-operative care. On the first day after surgery, patients usually need pain medication to manage discomfort. However, by the fourth to sixth day, most patients no longer need prescription pain medication. Over-the-counter drugs like Aleve and Tylenol are often sufficient.
Swelling and bruising usually reach their height around the third and fourth day but will likely be present for several additional weeks. Some patients may also experience numbness, tingling, and tightness, which are common occurrences after a facelift.
While a facelift is a surgical procedure, the pain is typically minimal and well-managed with medications. The majority of the discomfort comes from swelling and tightness, which subsides as the face heals. As always, it’s important to discuss any concerns about pain and discomfort with your surgeon before the procedure.
How you prepare for a facelift
Preparing for a facelift involves several essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Here’s what you need to know:
Medical Evaluation and Lab Testing: Before your facelift, your surgeon will likely request lab tests and a thorough medical evaluation. This helps assess your overall health and ensures you’re fit for surgery.
Medication Adjustment: You may need to adjust your current medications. Some drugs can interfere with the surgery or recovery process. Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully.
Skin Preparation: Applying certain products to your facial skin preoperatively can enhance the surgical outcome. Your surgeon may recommend specific skincare routines or products.
Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quitting before the facelift is crucial. Smoking affects blood flow and wound healing, increasing the risk of complications.
Avoid Blood-Thinning Agents: Aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements can increase bleeding and bruising. Discontinue their use as advised by your surgeon.
Clothing and Comfort: Wear comfortable clothes that fasten in the front. Avoid garments that need to be pulled over your head. Arrange for button-up pajamas for the post-surgery recovery period.
Support System: Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from the surgical facility. Someone should stay with you on the first night after surgery.
Emotional Preparedness: Understand that facelift recovery involves discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Maintain a positive mindset and seek emotional support during the healing process.
How is facelift surgery performed?
This transformative procedure aims to reverse visible signs of aging in the face and neck. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how it’s performed:
Anesthesia: Medications are administered to ensure your comfort during the surgical process. You have two options: intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will recommend the best choice based on your individual needs. Additional procedures, such as facial implants, fat transfer, or resurfacing techniques, can enhance the overall outcome.
The Incision: The type of facelift you choose determines the incision pattern. For Traditional Facelift the incision starts in the hairline at the temples, for Limited Incision Facelift there are shorter incisions around the temples and ears, and for Neck Lift the incision starts in front of the ear lobe.
Closing the Incisions: Sutures, which may dissolve or need removal after a few days, close the incisions. Some surgeons use skin glues to seal the wounds. Over time, the incision lines become well-concealed within the natural contours of your face and ear.
Results: Visible improvements emerge once swelling and bruising subside. Your final result should not only restore a more youthful appearance but also boost your self-confidence.
As a facelift is a personalized journey, make sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations, and individualized treatment plan.
Facelift in Iran
With low prices and high-quality cosmetic/medical procedures, Iran ranks high and has an undefeated reputation for offering not only safe but satisfying Facelift surgeries; in cities such as Tehran & Mashhad. Iran will offer you not only the most experienced surgeons, friendly nursing staff, and well-equipped medical centers, but if you even factor in the costs of 7 days of residency, food, transportation, nursing, and sightseeing, undergoing a Facelift surgery in Iran is much more affordable than anywhere else around the world.
How much is a facelift in Iran?
Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is a popular cosmetic procedure in Iran, attracting thousands of international patients each year due to its affordability and the expertise of Iranian surgeons. The cost of a facelift in Iran is significantly lower than in many other countries, making it an attractive destination for medical tourism. On average, the cost of facelift surgery in Iran is between 1500-2500 USD, with the best plastic surgeons. These costs can vary depending on several factors, including the type of facelift to be carried out, the techniques used, the experience of the plastic surgeon, and the location.
Iranian surgeons have extensive experience and expertise in different types of facelift surgery. They have performed numerous procedures annually, and their work is recognized for its high quality. The surgeons are also known for their ability to adapt to new methods as medical science advances. Despite the operation technique leveling with the world’s best methods and well-equipped clinics and hospitals, the cost of a facelift in Iran is surprisingly low. This affordability, combined with the expertise of Iranian surgeons, makes Iran a popular destination for those seeking facelift surgery.
In conclusion, Iran offers high-quality facelift surgeries at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries. With experienced surgeons and advanced techniques, patients can expect excellent results. However, as with any medical procedure, it’s important to do thorough research and choose a reputable clinic and surgeon.
