Procedure
Objective:

Improve sagging/excess facial skin, tighten jowls, and loose neck skin by removing excess fat, tightening muscles, redraping skin. Most often done on men and women over 40: however, chronological age is not always the best indicator of a patient’s appearance as genetics, general health and ambient factors (alcohol, cigarettes, sun exposure, diet, exercise) play a significant role.

Length of Procedure:

Several hours.

Type of Anesthesia:

Local with sedation, or general.

In/Outpatient

Basis:

Usually outpatient. Some patients may require short inpatient stay depending on circumstances.

Possible Side Effects:

Temporary bruising, swelling, numbness and tenderness of skin; tight feeling, dry skin. For men, permanent need to shave behind ears, where beard-growing skin is repositioned.

Possible Risks:

Injury to the nerves that control facial muscles or feeling (usually temporary but may be permanent). Infection, bleeding. Poor healing; excessive scarring. Asymmetry or change in hairline.

Approximate Recovery Period:

Back to work: 10 to 14 days. More strenuous activity: 2 weeks or more. Bruising: 2 to 3 weeks. Must limit exposure to sun for several months.

Duration of
Results:

Usually 5 to 10 years.