The facelift procedure (if done right) can visibly shed years off anyone’s face. It is an effective way to improve the shape and definition of your facial contours and add facial volume to make your face look more attractive. A facelift is generally done on men and women who want to reverse aging and achieve better lines, especially on their face, neck, and chin. It helps to reduce frown lines and crow’s feet with minimal downtime, which can take weeks during a recovery phase. Several factors need to be considered before opting for a facelift procedure so that you don’t end up disappointed:
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Age
The first thing to consider when having a facelift is your age. The aging process affects everyone differently and at different rates; your age rate depends on your genetics. Typically, people over 55 have facelifts, but a recent study shows that younger patients are more satisfied with the procedure than older ones.
While everyone ages differently, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering having a facelift. Younger patients may heal more quickly and experience fewer scars, as their skin is still sufficiently elastic.
Furthermore, younger patients will also have less sagging and lose less of their natural elasticity, so the procedure will be less invasive. The procedure is more affordable for younger patients, as they are healthier and produce sufficient collagen and elastin.
While aging affects everyone at a different rate, many factors such as genetics, diet, ethnicity, and skin type can contribute to aging. Even though many people undergo a facelift at 55 or above, this is not the only factor to consider when considering this cosmetic procedure.
Different Types of Facelifts That Are Recommended for Different Ages
Dermal Fillers and Botox Are Non-Surgical Options
Injectable fillers are two common non-surgical facelift treatments, and Botox is the most common. Dermal fillers come in various types and concentrations; the best ones will depend on your unique goals.
Botox can help you achieve a more youthful appearance by blocking the nerves that cause facial muscles to contract. These treatments are quick, easy, and can correct multiple areas of concern.
Mini Facelift Is Less Invasive
A mini facelift is a more conservative procedure that uses less invasive incisions. The incisions are usually hidden in the hairline or beneath the chin. This surgery can remove deep facial wrinkles and tighten loose skin.
While it is possible to undergo a mini facelift if you are younger than 40, it is best for patients in their late forties. While there is no specific cut-off age, patients should be in good health and have mobility.
High SMAS Facelift Is More Invasive
The high SMAS facelift caters to the more advanced ages of 65 years and upwards. It involves repositioning the ptotic soft tissue evenly throughout the face. This procedure targets the midface, upper cheeks, jawline, and orbital regions.
Compared to the classic facelift, this method is less invasive and requires less recovery time. However, it may be less suitable for patients with limited skin laxity in the neck or experiencing pronounced facial aging.
Neck Lift Is Less Invasive than Traditional Facelift
A neck lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery performed on the neck. This procedure reshapes the neck and chin area, tightening loose, sagging skin. It can improve the appearance of moderate to severe facial aging and eliminate lines around the nose and mouth.
Medical News Today explains that a traditional facelift surgery involves making several incisions on the face. One incision is made in the hairline behind the ear, followed by an incision below the chin. The surgeon then works on lifting tissues through the incision and removing fat. The incision is closed using surgical sutures.
Lower Facelift Addresses Jowls
A lower facelift targets the neck and lower third of the face. This surgical procedure tightens loose neck skin, removes excess fat, and tightens the platysma muscle.
This procedure may be combined with other cosmetic surgeries, such as an eyelid lift or a blepharoplasty. Some patients may also opt for a lower facelift, which targets the whole neck and jowls.
Neck Lift Improves Appearance of Cheekbones
A neck lift can correct an uneven neck appearance by tightening the neck muscles and restoring the natural contour of your cheekbones. Surgical techniques entail making incisions under your chin or behind your ears, allowing the surgeon to access the muscles underneath the skin.
Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed, as well. Occasionally, additional facial procedures are combined with a neck lift to sculpt your jaw and neck lines even more.
Other Factors to Consider Along With the Ideal Age for a Facelift Procedure
Condition of the Skin
According to Healthline, it might be best to avoid wearing a facelift if you have dry skin since this can lead to complications like infection and inflammation. If you have oily skin, it’s okay to proceed with the procedure as long as you take proper care of yourself afterward.
General Physical Health
Your doctor will check if you are in good health and if any underlying conditions need attention before proceeding with any procedures like this.
According to WebMD, if you have any conditions that affect your general physical health, such as diabetes or heart disease, it may be best for you to consult with your physician before undergoing a facelift procedure.
If there is any cause for concern, this should be addressed before undergoing any cosmetic surgery, such as a facelift procedure that can be complicated and risky if not done correctly by an experienced surgeon.
Budget
Budgeting plays a vital role in deciding whether or not going for a facelift is right for you or not. If you have a budget, you must consider what results you can expect from your procedure. Many people opt for a less-invasive facelift because they only want to improve their appearance without having to learn more about how much it will cost them in the long run.
Take Your Time to Think It Through
Before deciding to undergo a facelift, a person should visit their general practitioner for a checkup. This checkup will allow the plastic surgeon to assess whether any health issues could affect the procedure’s outcome. Furthermore, a person should be in a sound mental state, as a mental illness can lead to a wrong decision about the procedure.