Facelift Plastic Surgery

When done in your “forties” a facelift can significantly slow the aging process in the lower region of the face.

Click here to see Facelift Before and After Photos

Aging of the face is inevitable due to genetics, lifestyle, sun-exposure, pollution and more. Facelift is performed to smooth and tighten the skin of the lower face and neck, reduce jowls and tighten the underlying neck muscles. When you have it done in your 40’s you can significantly slow the aging process in the lower region of the face.

Today – an entire “spectrum” of facelift surgeries exist – from the more extensive deep-plane facelift to the less extensive mini-lift. Some of these are being branded as the latest and greatest – but don’t be fooled – no single type of facelift is right for everybody.
Dr. Gunnlaugsson understands how to match the right surgery with the patient’s needs, and he uses the most advanced, refined and reliable techniques to perform his Facelift surgery to restore a more youthful, natural looking appearance to the face.

BENEFITS OF FACELIFT:

FaceLift corrects a sagging jawline, falling cheeks, a blunted neckline
FaceLift surgery today achieves healthy, more natural, longer lasting results
FaceLift achieves a more youthful, well rested, healthy look
FaceLift addresses the lower two-thirds of the face–cheeks, jowls, neck
FaceLift is performed on men & women in their forties to sixties & older
FaceLift is frequently combined with other facial procedures – Chin/Cheek Implants for the best overall –most satisfying results

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR FACELIFT?
When you look into the mirror, if you are unhappy with the appearance of your face and you have realistic expectations, you are probably a good candidate for Dr. Gunnlaugsson’s Facelift Surgery. During your personal consultation - he will do a complete assessment of your concerns and desires; the condition of your skin, the underlying anatomy, and how much aging is evident on your face. Regardless or your age, Dr. Gunnlaugsson can achieve dramatic results.

First consults are critical – they should always be done face-to-face (surgeon and patient) and not delegated to other staff.

FACELIFT SURGERY OVERVIEW:
Facelift surgery can be done with local anesthesia and sedation or under general
Anesthesia. Incisions are hidden in the hairline and in the fold in front of and behind the ear. Dr. Gunnlaugsson works through these to perform your lift by tightening deep tissue and lifting it to a more youthful position. Surgery takes about 4 hours. Botox or laser resurfacing performed in addition to the facelift can enhance the rejuvenation results while Chin augmentation – Cheek augmentation can place the finishing touches on your facelift. An underdeveloped-weak chin usually makes the nose appear larger while aging, sunken cheeks make you look older, tired, deflated – creating overall facial imbalance.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT FACELIFT:

What is a Facelift?
FaceLift/Rhytidectomy is a surgical procedure used to address the problems of the lower two-thirds of the face including removal of sagging skin and excess fat, tightening of neck muscles, jowls and cheeks that have become hollow and deflated.

Am I a Good Candidate for a FaceLift?
If you are in otherwise good health – and you have realistic expectations about dealing with the appearance of a sagging face and neck skin – you are a good candidate.

Does a FaceLift correct other problem areas of my face?
No. FaceLift deals only with the lower two-thirds of your face. It will not eliminate wrinkles around your mouth or lines and wrinkles in the eye area or forehead. Eyelid surgery and Chin/Cheek Augmentation is commonly done in tandem with a facelift - as are injectable fillers or Botox.

What is a good age for Facelift?
Most of Dr. Gunnlaugsson's candidates for FaceLift surgery are aged forty to sixty (plus) – but people of other ages can have FaceLift surgery also.

Where will Dr. Gunnlaugsson perform my surgery?
Your surgery will be performed in a state-of-the-art, out-patient surgery center. It is fully equipped and able to handle all surgeries and any situation that may occur.

What anesthesia is involved?
Generally local anesthesia combined with sedation is used.

How long does FaceLift surgery take?
This varies with each patient since many patients choose to combine other procedures with their FaceLift surgery – but plan on several hours.

Will I have scars after surgery?
Dr. Gunnlaugsson places the incisions in very inconspicuous places such as behind the ears and in natural creases of the skin. These normally heal as thin thread-like lines and are well camouflaged.

Is FaceLift surgery painful?
You will experience mild pain and discomfort – this is normal and is easily managed with oral pain medication.

What can I expect during recovery?
Swelling, bruising, puffiness and paleness are all normal and to be expected. Numbness can also occur and is normal. You must keep your head elevated for the first few days to help manage swelling. Bruising, puffiness and paleness decrease each day until gone. Some bruising will take 2-3 weeks to resolve.

What should I expect right after surgery?
Bandages will be applied to your head and neck which will be removed the next day. You may then need a lighter bandage for a few days.

When will I be able to return to work?
Typically Dr. Gunnlaugsson’s patients are presentable and able to return to work in about two weeks.

What about exercise and daily activities?
You will need to restrict your activities per instructions we will give you. You will not be able to perform any strenuous activities until healing is complete-2-3 weeks at least.

Will Insurance pay for Facelift surgery?
No. Insurance does not cover cosmetic procedures – but financing may be available.

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