The face is significantly effected by constant exposure to the elements, facial expressions, and the natural effects of aging. A facelift is designed to remove excess skin and fat and redrape the skin to improve wrinkles, sagging skin, jaw and neck lines. A once old, tired, sad appearing face may become brighter and more youthful in appearance.

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The procedure is performed by camouflaging incisions in the temporal hairline, down the front, around, and behind the ears. Excess fat is removed, and liposuction of the neck may be performed. The sagging tissues are resuspended, and the skin is redraped and tightened. The face then appears more youthful and fresher. The results of the procedure usually last for 5 to 10 years.

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In selected individuals, Endoscopic Plastic Surgery may be performed to achieve the same result with significantly smaller incisions. Facelifts are often combined with a Forehead Lift and Eyelid Surgery in order to improve all aspects of the aging face.

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The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis at the office or at any of the Richmond area hospitals. The operation can be done under local anesthesia with deep sedation or general anesthesia. General anesthesia may increase the risk for postoperative bleeding from this procedure. Surgical time is usually 2 to 4 hours. After the operation, you may experience swelling and discoloration of the skin. This is variable and will disappear shortly. You may experience temporary numbness in the neck and face. This too will improve. The stitches will be removed in 5 to 7 days. Makeup can be applied after the stitches are removed. Strenuous activity is avoided for six weeks. Sun exposure is to be avoided.

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Rarely, one may experience complications after surgery. These include bleeding, infection, scarring, change in hairline, and rarely, nerve injury. A second facelift procedure is associated with a significantly less chance of risk than the original procedure.