Facelift in Sacramento, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

• At what age can I undergo facelift surgery?

  Adult patients can undergo facelift surgery at any age, but not everyone qualifies for the procedure. Some patients can achieve their cosmetic goals with other standalone procedures, such as brow lift, neck lift, or eyelid surgery.

• How long after undergoing a facelift procedure can I return to work?

  Because you will be unable to drive for the first week of your recovery, it is likely you will stay home from work during that time. However, every case is different, and your at-home recovery period may vary depending on what your surgical plan entails.

• Should I quit smoking before undergoing facelift surgery?

  Yes, absolutely. Smoking or any other tobacco use can hinder the healing process and adversely affect your facelift results. Patients should refrain from using tobacco products for three weeks before and after their surgery.

• How Long Does Facelift Last?

  Most facelift procedures are completed in a few hours, though the precise amount of time will depend on the extent of work necessary to rejuvenate your face.

  As for the results, your facelift should keep your face looking younger for close to a decade. While facelift reverses the signs of aging, it cannot stop aging entirely, so wrinkles and sagging skin will start to reappear. If you remain a good candidate for facelift, you may consider a second facelift to rejuvenate your face again.

• Why is facelift often called the “gold standard” in facial rejuvenation?

  Facelift has the twin distinction of being not only one of the oldest plastic surgery procedures, but also still the best way to dramatically trim years from your facial appearance. The first facelifts were performed more than 100 years ago, and procedures that address facial muscles in addition to tightening skin have been perfected over the past 50 years.

  Innovative surgical techniques and new technology have made the surgery more effective and appealing than ever before, with the most natural-looking results. That is one reason more than 120,000 Americans chose facelift last year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

• If I notice sagging or droopiness in a few years, will it be necessary to repeat the procedure?

  With facelift, patients typically benefit from a decade of rejuvenation. When the laws of gravity and time begin to wear away some of the gains you achieved with facelift, there are myriad options to consider, from noninvasive to surgical, including an encore facelift procedure.

  Dermal fillers are an increasingly popular choice for adding subtle volume and smoothing out wrinkles. Most clients who choose dermal fillers have never had a facelift, and use these convenient injectables as a way to manage and reverse signs of aging, including fine lines and creases. Dermal fillers work by not only adding volume, but also stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, the natural proteins your body uses to sustain the tone, strength and flexibility of skin. Dermal fillers are so effective at restoring a youthful appearance to the complexion that this option is sometimes referred to as “liquid facelift.”

  Other options to touch up a facelift or improve facial appearance without surgery include laser skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, microneedling and one of the newest technologies: radiofrequency (RF) energy treatment, which firms skin by triggering collagen production and shrinking moderate amounts of fat. FaceTite and Morpheus8 are two of the most popular RF choices.

• How can I avoid an artificial “pulled” or “windswept” look?

  Most of us can remember a time when the tabloids we scanned at the supermarket checkout line regularly featured celebrity facelifts. The photos were breathtaking, but usually not in a good way. Facelifts performed in earlier decades sometimes ended up looking unnatural, or worse.

  Today’s more advanced surgical techniques have dramatically improved outcomes, and even celebrities have learned not to overdo it. The best results come from targeted, subtle modification, not indiscriminate stretching and excision of skin.

  Even though surgical procedure has advanced far beyond what was possible just a short time ago, it is still prudent to keep in mind these basics when choosing a surgical procedure — and surgeon: Always look for a plastic surgeon with a depth of experience; someone who has performed many successful facelifts. Review a doctor’s gallery of before-and-after photos, and make time to share your goals and expectations during a personal consultation. During this conversation, be sure to gauge your doctor’s philosophy of plastic surgery — whether he or she takes a prudent, moderate approach or advocates major changes in a single procedure. That one factor could be the difference between a “pulled” or “windswept” look and a result you will enjoy for years.

• What Is The Difference Between Facelift For Men and Women?

  Because the qualities that make men and women attractive are not the same, facelift surgery is different for each sex. With female patients, Dr. Green focuses on creating a smooth and soft neckline. With male patients, he strives to create a sharp, defined jawline that enhances their overall handsomeness. Dr. Green is experienced performing facelift on both sexes.

• How Soon Can I Exercise After Facelift?

  Dr. Green advises that you wait at least three weeks following surgery before incorporating strenuous exercise back into your routine. You are encouraged to take walks during those initial weeks, as moderately paced activity can help to get your blood circulation up, which accelerates the healing process.