Face Lift
Facial plastic surgeon Dr. Timothy M. Greco offers face lift surgery in Philadelphia to help restore youthful vitality to your face and take years off your appearance.
As we age, changes occur in the tissues of the face, contributing to a tired look. The skin loses elasticity, fat collects in the jowls and under the chin, and the facial muscles become lax. For Dr. Greco, the goal of facelift surgery is to reposition sagging tissues to give each patient a natural, rested, and youthful appearance – not a stretched, operated look.
Some patients in Philadelphia may also benefit from endoscopic face lift surgery, a surgical technique involving the use of small, lighted scopes to guide the surgery. During your consultation with Dr. Greco, you will discuss your facial enhancement options, and he will create a customized plan to meet your needs. This might include facial liposuction for improved facial contouring, laser skin resurfacing to treat wrinkles, or a brow lift combined with a face lift for both upper and lower facial rejuvenation.
Dr. Greco's practice is limited solely to excellence in aesthetic surgery of the face, and he treats patients from Philadelphia and out of the area. Ready to discuss facelift options with Philadelphia facial plastic surgeon Dr. Greco? Request a consultation online today, or phone the Eastern Cosmetic Surgery Institute at (610) 664-8830.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of results can I expect from my face lift?
A face lift can dramatically turn back the clock on your visible signs of aging, creating a noticeable improvement in your facial appearance. The tissues that remain after face lift surgery, however, continue to age. If necessary, touch-up procedures including fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic in the future will help to keep you looking fresh and rested.
How long does the surgery take?
The actual time necessary to perform a face lift ranges from 3 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
How long will it take before I will be presentable in public?
You should be able to return to work or social activities within 10 days to 2 weeks after surgery. Any residual bruising can be concealed with makeup, which our aesthetician will customize for your individual needs. A simple hairstyle change can help you to camouflage incisions and prevent unwanted attention from scrutinizing friends and neighbors. Remember that any bruising and swelling will eventually fade and that 80% of the swelling is gone after two weeks, with another 10% after 2 months.
Will I have scarring after the surgery?
The goal of facial plastic surgery is to create desired changes in appearance without noticeable scars. Dr. Greco conceals face lift incisions in the natural skin folds around the ear and in the scalp so they are not visible after they have healed. During your consultation, we will discuss incision placement, as several options are available.
When can I return to exercise?
You can expect to gradually return to exercise two weeks after surgery.
Is there much pain associated with a face lift?
Discomfort associated with this procedure is usually minimal. Dr. Greco performs face lift surgery using conscious sedation (twilight anesthesia) and local anesthesia for additional comfort. Following the surgery, oral medication relieves any post-operative discomfort. You can expect some tightness in the neck and jaw region, which will decrease as swelling diminishes. Some numbness can be expected, which resolves with time.
Will I lose any hair from the surgery?
Dr. Greco does not shave hair during your face lift surgery. During the procedure, it will be placed in small ponytails and carefully preserved. During your consultation, we will discuss the placement of incisions with respect to your hairline.
How long will my sutures remain in place?
Any delicate sutures and clips used for the surgery will be removed in 1 week. Most sutures will dissolve on their own during the first week, but the 2 small sutures just below the ear lobes will be removed 10 to 14 days following your surgery.
Is there anything I can do as a patient to help?
Several simple rules will help you through the early postoperative period. First, follow the postoperative instructions and don't improvise. Second, know that many patients experience depression for several days after surgery. This is largely due to anesthesia you received during your procedure as well as disappointment upon viewing any swelling and bruising. No matter how much you prepare mentally for the surgery, most patients experience some sort of letdown. To compensate for this, try to remain busy and keep a positive outlook. Finally, get plenty of rest and provide yourself with a nutritious diet. Pamper yourself. This is a perfect time to catch up on rest and relaxation. You owe it to yourself.
What are the risks?
Although all surgical procedures carry some risks, they are usually minimal in facial plastic surgery. During your consultation, we will discuss any potential risks as well as ways to avoid them.
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