If you're dissatisfied with the age lines and sagging facial skin, you might consider undergoing a face lift, or rhytidectomy. A full lift can dramatically change your appearance, tightening loose skin and smoothing out deep creases near the nose and mouth, as well as providing a small lift around the chin and neck area.

Since the introduction of the face lift, many variations and different techniques have been developed, but the traditional procedure usually has the best and longest-lasting results for those seeking a dramatic change.

Surgery:

During the surgery, excess skin is removed and then what is left is pulled back, giving you a tighter, more youthful appearance. The incision can be long and leave a large scar, but is done near the hairline and around the ear to make less noticeable.

The traditional facelift will not erase fine lines, especially around the eyes and forehead. It is specifically geared to remove drooping skin and the folds that are created by it.

For people who have concerns about wrinkles or baggy eyes, other procedures are often combined with the procedure for maximum results. Eyelifts, injectable fillers, and liposuction around the neck and chin are all common cosmetic surgeries that are normally performed in conjunction with the facelift.

Recovery:

Recovery after surgery varies by person, but on average you can expect to be out of work for two to six weeks. Following the procedure, your face will feel very tight and possibly give you great discomfort.

It will be swollen, bruised, and will look strange to you. As the weeks go by, the swelling will diminish, and you may need to wear heavy makeup to for a while to cover redness and other discoloration that will occur.

In some patients a tube placed by the ear is necessary to drain excess blood and fluids. After a facelift it is important to stay away from steam rooms, saunas, alcohol, and smoking, as these can all cause complications.

Risks:

Complications and risks associated with the surgery are hematoma, nerve damage, skin necrosis, and infection. Hematoma is the most common risk, which is higher among men.

Internal bleeding after surgery can cause excessive bruising and in severe cases, form blood sacs under the skin that may need to be removed surgically. Nerve damage can range from mild to severe, resulting in loss of sensation or numbness in a small area of the face, to difficulty moving facial muscles.

One of the most serious concerns is necrosis, when the skin cells die. This poses a greater risk in smokers and those with poor health. As in all surgeries, infection is always a possibility and any signs of its development should be alerted to a doctor immediately.

Facelifts can give you a smooth, youthful appearance that will last for many years. It's a dramatic procedure, so it is important to review all options and information available before deciding if the surgery is right for you.