Rhytidectomy (Facelift)
Chicago Facelift Surgery (Face Lift) Surgeon
Dr. Michael Epstein - Northbrook, IL
Dr. Michael Epstein has treated many Chicago facelift surgery (rhytidectomy) patients with excellent results. In the paragraphs below, he explains the face lift procedure, how a facelift is performed and the expected recovery time.
A rhytidectomy (commonly referred to as a facelift) cannot stop the aging process but can improve the visible signs of aging by providing an overall lift to the lower 2/3's of your face by tightening loose skin in the jowls, neck and jaw line.
Because a facelift does not eliminate wrinkles on the forehead, crow's feet or bags under the eyes, it can be combined with a brow lift and/or eyelid surgery to compliment your results. Facelifting is often combined with fat grafting and skin resurfacing to obtain complete facial rejuvenation.
How is a Rhytidectomy performed?
Rhytidectomy is an outpatient surgical procedure performed at our facility, Northbrook Plastic Surgery. There are many different ways to approach a facelift depending on your facial structure and your surgeon's technique. For a classic facelift, incisions typically begin above the hairline at the temples, extend in a natural line in front of the ear and continue behind the earlobe to the lower scalp. The skin is separated from the fat and muscle below, the underlying muscles and membranes are tightened, skin is pulled back and the excess is removed. Stitches secure layers of tissue and close the incisions. Metal clips may be used on the scalp. Dr. Epstein performs many types of facelifts, some of which leave no visable scars.This procedure takes approximately 2-4 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure.
What to expect during the recovery period:
- Bruising and swelling in the affected area are normal and to be expected. These symptoms will fade within 1-2 weeks after surgery
- Discomfort, which can be controlled with medication
- Sutures and/or staples will be removed 5 to 7 days after surgery, sometimes longer
- If a head garment is used, it should be worn 1-2 weeks after surgery
- Makeup can be applied after 2 weeks
- Avoid direct sunlight for several weeks and use a good sunscreen
- Return to light activity within a few days
- Full activity may resume 3-4 weeks post-op
Dr. Epstein is a gifted cosmetic surgeon in Chicago who offers a variety of facial plastic surgery and facial rejuvenation procedures. In addition to face lift surgery, he offers other facial procedures for patients seeking threadlift, browlift, neck lift, otoplasty or nose surgery in Chicago.
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