Sometimes, trying to resolve the visible signs of aging can be light fighting against gravity – but with the right cosmetic procedure, you can get around the effects of gravity easily. At Keller Plastic Surgery in Santa Barbara, CA we know that a facelift can be an extremely effective way to correct the most difficult visible signs of aging.
What Is a Facelift?
Right now, a facelift is the third most common cosmetic procedure in the country and is well-known for its ability to correct visible signs of aging. Also known as a rhytidectomy, this surgery is used to tighten loose skin to reduce the appearance of skin laxity, sagging jowls, and fine lines or wrinkles. This surgery is most often sought by people who want to look younger and enjoy longer-lasting results than what can be accomplished with dermal fillers.
The most common areas of the face that can benefit from this treatment include:
- Forehead
- Mouth
- Nose
- Eyes area
- Eyebrow
How Does This Procedure Work?
This procedure can be performed in a variety of ways depending on what your aesthetic goals are and the condition of your skin. Your surgery will be personalized to your exact needs, which is why some people combine this procedure with other facial surgeries, such as a neck lift or a blepharoplasty. In general, incisions for your surgery will be made in strategic areas that can be easily hidden, such as around the ears or the hairline. Through the incisions, your surgeon will pull, lift, and excise your skin until your appearance is more youthful.
Because this surgery will involve the use of general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home afterward. Likewise, you will need to schedule time off work so you can recover and enjoy your results more quickly.
How Long Do Results Last?
The results of this procedure are designed to last for several years at a time – in fact, some results can last for up to 20 years! As a long-term anti-aging solution, there isn’t a single non-invasive cosmetic procedure that can measure up to the longevity of rhytidectomy results.
Of course, there are some factors that may determine how long your results last. For example, your genetics and lifestyle factors will determine how quickly your skin ages; genetics dictate how quickly your skin loses collagen, and factors like smoking, stress, and your skincare routine are also important.
Can You Extend Your Results?
Although you can expect your results to last for several years, there are many things you can do to ensure your results last for as long as possible. For example, one of the best things you can do is follow a consistent anti-aging skincare routine that includes products such as Retinol, collagen, and hyaluronic acid. Some of the best ways to extend your results include:
Aesthetic Treatments
While plastic facial surgery can make a huge difference in your appearance, when it comes to your day-to-day appearance, you may want to include aesthetic treatments as part of your normal skincare routine.
For example, if you start to notice some volume loss in the skin several years after your procedure, you can top-up your results by using a dermal filler to extend your youthful appearance and slow down the aging process. Aesthetic treatments like chemical peels or other types of facials can also reduce the appearance of blemishes and sun damage that may prematurely age you.
Limit Sun Exposure
The primary cause of premature skin aging is unprotected sun exposure. But while you can’t really avoid all sunlight, there are plenty of strategies you can use to limit your sun exposure – and save your skin from premature visible aging, like dark spots and wrinkles.
For one thing, you should be diligent about your sun protection and always wear sunscreen during the daytime, even if you plan to be inside. You can also wear wide-brim hats, sunglasses, and stay inside during the hottest parts of the day during the summer to avoid too much exposure to UV rays.
Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
There are some obvious lifestyle habits that can contribute to premature aging, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. But there are also other lifestyle habits that can benefit your overall health and the way your skin ages. For example, eating a healthy diet full of nutrients will give your skin the resources it needs to stay even-toned and strong. Avoiding white sugar and processed foods can also benefit your skin health.
One big lifestyle factor that contributes to premature aging is stress. While stress is a natural part of life, you should do your best to limit consistent high-stress situations, since stress produces cortisol that breaks down collagen in the skin more quickly. Meditating and making other low-stress lifestyle decisions can help you extend your desired results.
Who Are Candidates?
A rhytidectomy is a surgery that can be performed on most people, regardless of gender, skin tone, or skin type. Usually, this procedure is sought by people in their 40s or 50s to drastically reduce visible signs of aging, but there is no “best” age to have this treatment – as long as the condition of your skin warrants this surgery, you are likely an eligible patient.
The candidates for this treatment should not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding, and must be in good general health since this procedure involves general anesthesia. As a surgery, you may need to pass a physical with your PCP before you can schedule your procedure. You will also need to attend a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Keller before we can book your surgery. Your consultation will include gathering information such as:
- General medical history
- Past surgeries, including cosmetic procedures
- Medications and supplements you currently use
- Previous and current health conditions
Restore Your Youthful Appearance
If you want to look younger and achieve long-lasting results, then a facelift may be the ideal treatment for your cosmetic concerns. From tightening loose skin to smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on virtually all areas of the face, this procedure can be an ideal match for your aesthetic goals. Please contact Keller Plastic Surgery in Santa Barbara, CA to schedule your consultation today.
