What is Rhytidectomy?

Posted on 19. Oct, 2009 in Surgical Procedures

A Rhytidectomy, or ‘facelift’, is a common procedure amongst both men and women wanting to defy gravity and the ageing process.

In 2007 they ranked as one of the top 7 most popular procedures amongst Americans, only just falling behind liposuction and breast augmentation. In 2009 the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) reported over 34,100 cosmetic surgical procedures carried out in Britain, with facelifts making up 4,457 of those procedures. http:/www.consultingroom.com.

So what exactly is a facelift? What happens under the knife and what can you expect afterwards?

What Does a Facelift Involve and Who Can Benefit From One?

The age range for people opting for facelifts is usually between 40 and 60. However anyone wishing to defy the aging process and regain a smooth and youthful complexion can benefit from this procedure.

The operation can take upto 6 hours, during this time you will be under general anaesthetic and completely unconscious. The surgeon begins by making small incisions along the hairline and down behind the ears. He then delicately seperates the skin and ‘lifts’ it up towards the scalp, having removed any excess fatty issue and skin he then secures it in place. This ‘lift’ tightens the facial skin resulting in a younger fresher appearance.

You will not be able to drive for 5 days after the operation as vision and movement is limited due to bandages and swelling. A 2 week holiday from work is also reccomended for a speedy recovery. All in all it can take upto 12 months for all puffiness and bruising to subside.

Many people opting for a facelift also choose to have other small procedures done at the same time such as Microdermabrasion, cosmetic dentistry or an eye lift. These relatively non-invasive procedures can target specific problem areas, giving a much more satisfying end result.

What Are the Risks Involved?

As with all surgical procedures there are risks involved with having a facelift. Complications may include:

1. Haematoma (bleeding under the skin) which may lead to further surgery to stop the bleeding.
2. Damage to facial nerves- which my never be recovered
3. Hair loss around scar tissue and an awkward hairline on th scalp.
4. Unusually red or aggravated scars which could lead to infection.

If you decide to have cosmetic surgery, it is important to use a trusted and well established surgeon and discuss all possible scenarios.

What Can I Expect From a Facelift and How Much Does It Cost?

The results you get from your facelift will depend on your age and the extent of your original problems; however facelift patients can expect to see a brighter, tauter, fresher looking more youthful face.

Whilst the operation can not be reversed as such or ‘wear out’, as the years pass signs of aging will naturally begin to reappear.

When it comes to finding a surgeon and looking at prices don’t look for the cheapest. Transform, on of Britain’s leading cosmetic surgery clinics, charges approximately £5598 and offer a payment plan with 12 months interest free credit. For more information on their services visit,  http://www.transforminglives.co.uk/facial-surgery/facelift.aspx.