What Factors Make Someone a Good Candidate for a Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?

We receive this question frequently at the Plastic Surgery Institute of California. First, the term “facelift” is loosely used to cover a number of different types of facial rejuvenation procedures. There are several other procedures often mistakenly referred to as “facelifts” by the public. Here we’ll specifically look at actual facelifts (rhytidectomy) and what factors may lead someone to make the decision to undergo the procedure.

A facelift is a single procedure that can address several issues. A facelift (rhytidectomy) is used to reduce the visible signs of ages, including sagging skin, creases, rough texture, wrinkles, jowling and loose skin around the chin and neck. Facelifts are one of the most requested and performed cosmetic procedures nationally.

Factors That Should Be Present When Considering a Facelift:

• The patient has skin tissues that can be treated with a facelift
• The patient should have a full understanding of face lift procedure itself, recovery time, risks and all options available
• The patient does not smoke or has abstained from smoking in preparation for the possibility of surgery
• The patient does not have health issues that may increase risks
• The patient should have realistic expectations regarding likely surgical outcomes/results (See before and after pictures from facelifts patients here)

Factors That Can Improve Long-Term Results:

Bone Structure: If you have good bone structure the newly lifted facial skin will have more support and underlying shape, resulting in a more youthful, natural look.

Skin Elasticity: If you have good skin elasticity you’ll heal better and will be in a better position to achieve a more youthful, natural look. This is one reason some patients consider surgery earlier. While the signs of aging aren’t as great in earlier stages, the skin’s ability to heal correctly is, and long term outcomes are helped greatly by greater skin elasticity.

You’re in Good Shape Overall: If you’re overweight you’ll be at greater risk for complications and since your body will be under additional stress from the excess weight, you won’t heal as well as you could otherwise.

Be sure to consider all of your options with one of our board-certified surgeons at the Plastic Surgery Institute of California. Call or click below to schedule your consultation.