Facelift - for whom and when is it worth opting for the procedure?

Natural skin aging processes

Skin aging is a natural process that affects each of us over the years. After the age of 25, the body begins to produce less and less collagen and elastin - proteins responsible for firmness, elasticity and proper tension. Cell regeneration also slows down, making the skin thinner, less resistant to external factors and more prone to wrinkle formation.

Wrinkles deepen and facial contours change

As a result of gravity and the weakening of subcutaneous structures, there is a gradual drooping of facial tissues. The changes are particularly noticeable in the cheeks, jawline and neck, where the skin loses its contour. In addition, the amount of hyaluronic acid decreases with age, leading to a loss of hydration and the formation of deeper furrows and skin folds.

Skin aging is also the result of external factors, including UV radiation, environmental pollution, stress, poor diet or smoking. All of these elements accelerate the degeneration of the skin, leading to dryness, loss of radiance and the appearance of discoloration.

The aging process affects not only the physical appearance, but also the psyche. Many people experience a decline in self-esteem and sense of attractiveness. Changes in appearance often cause discomfort and insecurity, especially in professional or private situations where physical appearance nevertheless plays an important role.

What is a surgical facelift?

A surgical facelift, also known as a face-lift, is a plastic surgery procedure that aims to rejuvenate the appearance of the face by removing excess sagging skin, tightening subcutaneous tissues and restoring the natural oval. It eliminates deep wrinkles, drooping cheeks, nasolabial furrows and loose skin in the jaw and neck area, which are characteristic signs of aging. 

Surgical lifting is much more effective than non-invasive methods of rejuvenation, as it allows for long-lasting results that last for up to a dozen years. Depending on the patient's needs, the procedure can cover the entire face or specific areas, such as the lower face and neck.

Face-lifting is especially recommended for people with advanced signs of aging who want to restore a younger appearance, improve contour and regain confidence. Thanks to advances in plastic surgery, it is safe, minimally invasive, and the recovery period is much shorter than just a few years ago. 

Who is the facelift designed for?

A surgical facelift is suitable for people who face visible and advanced signs of aging. It is recommended for people who enjoy good health and have no contraindications to surgery, such as blood clotting problems. It is also important to be realistic about the effects of the procedure.

The final decision to perform a surgical lift should be preceded by a detailed consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon, who will assess the condition of the skin, the patient's expectations and qualify for the procedure. This will allow you to choose the best method to suit your individual needs and achieve natural, harmonious results. At Dr Szczyt Clinic, we provide comprehensive care, state-of-the-art technology and an experienced team of specialists who ensure the highest quality and safety of each procedure.

What does a surgical lift procedure look like?

The procedure is most often performed under general anesthesia, although in some cases local anesthesia with sedation is used. The surgeon makes precise incisions in areas that will help hide scars, then lifts and tightens the deeper structures of the face. Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is gently stretched and sutured.

After the modeling is completed, sutures and dressings are placed. In some cases, drains are used to help drain excess fluid and reduce swelling. The entire procedure takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of the lift and the area being corrected.

Recovery and effects of facelift

After the procedure, the patient remains under medical observation, usually for 24 hours. There may be swelling, bruising and a feeling of skin tightness for a few days, which gradually subsides. During the first few weeks, intense exercise should be avoided and the doctor's instructions should be followed. The sutures are usually removed after about 7-14 days, and the full effects of the lift are visible after a few months, when the skin has completely healed.

FAQ

What is a surgical facelift?

A surgical facelift is a procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance by removing excess skin, tightening subcutaneous tissues and restoring a clear facial oval. The procedure effectively reduces deep wrinkles, sagging cheeks and loose skin in the jaw and neck areas.

Who is the facelift designed for?

The procedure is designed for people with visible signs of aging such as loss of skin elasticity, deep wrinkles, furrows or tissue laxity. It is most often opted for by patients between the ages of 40 and 65 who want to achieve long-lasting and visible rejuvenation effects.

How long do the effects of a surgical lift last?

The effects of a surgical lift are long-lasting and can last up to 10-15 years, depending on the patient's individual predisposition, lifestyle and skin aging process.

Is a surgical lift painful?

The procedure is performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation, so the patient does not feel pain. After surgery, there may be mild discomfort, swelling and bruising, which subsides within a few days.

What is the recovery like after the procedure?

The recovery period usually lasts 2-4 weeks. During this time, it is recommended to avoid intense exercise, follow the doctor's instructions and take care of the incision sites. The full effects are visible after a few months, when the skin has completely healed.

How does a surgical lift differ from non-surgical methods?

Surgical lifts offer lasting and clear results that are impossible to achieve with non-surgical methods. Non-invasive techniques, including lifting threads, fillers and laser treatments, work superficially and offer more subtle, short-term results.

Does a surgical lift leave scars?

Incisions are made in the natural folds of the skin, such as the hairline, temples or ear area, making the scars almost invisible. With proper post-operative care, they become even less noticeable over time.

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