Incisions placed around the ear in natural creases are made to allow the skin and underlying tissue to be repositioned to a more youthful contour. While a Facelift cannot stop the aging process, it can often make a person appear to be a decade younger. The Facelift is the fifth most commonly performed plastic surgery procedure in the United States.

Dr. Gray is one of the busiest facelift surgeons in the entire country.  He averages 35-50 facelifts each month. 
Most surgeons don't do this many in an entire year!!

A variety of techniques are used selectively depending on the patients needs. The most common methods involve freeing a portion of the facial skin, repositioning the underlying fat and then removing excess skin. Fat may be trimmed or suctioned around the neck and chin to provide definition, and the muscles of the neck are often tightened to a smoother, more youthful appearance. Some patients may be treated with less invasive techniques, such as minimal incision endocsopic techniques or with short scar variations.

Swelling and bruising occur but are usually gone in a few weeks. Patients generally feel a numbing sensation and skin tightness that should return to normal within weeks. To avoid tension and scarring, patients should slowly return to their normal activities.

Complications are relatively infrequent. The most common problem is bleeding, which most often can be treated in the office, but sometimes requires additional surgery. Small wound problems, such as delayed healing or open wounds, may generally be managed by local wound care. Rarely, significant skin loss can develop, particularly in patients with a history of tobacco use. Injury to the facial nerve, resulting in facial muscle weakness, is occasionally encountered. This is almost always temporary and resolves within weeks to months. Infection, anesthetic complications and drug allergies may occur as in any surgery.

The best candidate for a Facelift is a patient whose face and neck have begun to sag but whose skin still has good elasticity. Expectations must be realistic, and it is important that any existing medical problems, such as hypertension, are well controlled. Smoking is a significant risk, and if you have a history of smoking, it is important to discuss how long before and after surgery your surgeon requires you to remain tobacco and nicotine free.

Patients can expect swelling and bruising post-surgery. Depending on your particular surgery, you may be advised to rest for a few days at home. Some less invasive techniques may allow patients to return to normal activity within a few days, but many patients will wish to remain mainly at home for the first week. Elevation of the head is recommended to promote less swelling. Patients generally return to work in two weeks and gradually resume athletic activity three weeks after surgery.

It is important to avoid any medication which might affect bleeding. Medications such as Advil®, aspirin, Motrin® and similar pain relievers interfere with platelet function and should be discontinued at least 10 days prior to surgery. Many over-the-counter drugs, supplements and vitamins can affect bleeding. You should tell your doctor about any such medications or dietary supplements. Smoking and nicotine patches must be discontinued. You should discuss how many weeks your surgeon requires you to be tobacco free (generally at least 2-4 weeks). Dr. Gray may instruct you to not eat or drink after midnight the day before surgery. Follow all of your doctor's instructions.

You should take pain medications as needed. Patients undergoing typical Facelifts should keep their heads elevated by using a few pillows or sitting in a chair. It is best to avoid excessive talking for a few days. Dr. Gray may instruct you on  suture line care. Your incisions should be kept dry for a few days. Severe pain or swelling should be reported immediately to your surgeon.