What Procedures Are Included in a Facelift?

Facelift surgeries can involve any number of procedures that work to reduce the signs of aging and rejuvenate the tissues of the face. The goal of most facelift procedures is to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, skin discolorations, and other imperfections that may detract from a person's appearance.

How Long is the Average Recovery Time for a Facelift Procedure?

The length of recovery time for a facelift will be determined by the number of procedures perform and the extent of physical trauma to the face and tissues. In many cases, the physical signs of a facelift procedure will be gone within seven to ten days of the procedure. The healing of the tissues may take several weeks, however. Because much of the reconstruction is performed beneath the surface of the skin, the swelling and inflammation in the area may be prominent for several days. Bruising may also be present. As the tissues begin to heal, the inflammation will gradually begin to disappear and the face will begin to return to normal.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

Individuals who have lost an excessive amount of weight or have experienced various types of skin damage may be good candidates for a facelift procedure. Skin that has been damaged by the sun or that has started to lose its elasticity may begin to hang loosely on the face. This can affect a person's eyelids, the cheeks, the chin, and the neck. Individuals who are in good health and have healthy texture to the skin must be evaluated to determine if they will be good candidates for a facelift procedure. It is important that the person has a healthy immune system and is capable of undergoing anesthesia without any adverse side effects.