Save time by filling out your patient information forms online!

Frequent Questions About Connecticut Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Frequent Questions

Below you will find a list of frequent questions about Facelift with answers provided by Connecticut Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Singer. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please write to info@implasticsurgery.com, be sure to include the procedure name and your question!

How is this procedure done?

There are different techniques and approaches to a Connecticut Facelift. The specifics will be discussed with you prior to your procedure at our Westport medical offices. The exact placement of the incisions and the sequence of events depend on your facial structure and your surgeon's preference. Generally, incisions usually begin at the temples above the hairline, flow along the natural line inside of the ear, curve around the earlobe into the crease behind the ear, then into or along the lower scalp. If your neck needs attention, a small incision may also be made under the chin.

The facial skin is lifted, the fat is trimmed or suctioned and underlying muscle may be tightened. After deep tissues are tightened, the excess skin is pulled up and back, trimmed and stitched (sutured) into place. Stitches secure the layers of tissue and close the incision; metal clips may be used on the scalp. Some surgeons use a tiny thin tube placed temporarily under the skin behind your ear to drain any fluid that could collect there. Your surgeon may also wrap your head loosely in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling.

^ Back to Top

How do I prepare for my Facelift?

During your initial preoperative visit with your surgeon at our Westport, Connecticut, medical offices, be prepared to give a complete medical history including all your medications, allergies and previous surgeries. You will undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests. If you are over age 50, an electrocardiogram may be taken. Photographs are important aids in planning and performing your Facelift. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and several months after your procedure.

During your consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include taking vitamins, cautions about taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, and instructions on hair coloring and use of antibacterial soap.

It is very important to note that smoking reduces the blood supply to the face and may increase scarring and compromise the good results of a Facelift. Therefore, you must stop smoking completely for three weeks before and two weeks after your procedure. "Cutting down" will not help. Complete elimination of smoking is necessary to improve facial blood supply.

You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure. If you take daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. If you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined again prior to your procedure.

^ Back to Top

How long does the procedure take?

At our Westport, Connecticut, surgery facilities, operating time varies depending on the extent of your procedure(s). The Facelift generally requires two hours; upper and lower eyelids together one hour and the brow lift one hour.

^ Back to Top

What form of anesthesia is used?

You will be given either local anesthesia combined with sedation or general anesthesia, given by an expert anesthesiologist M.D. (medical doctor). Discuss your needs and comfort level specifically with your surgeon to create the best possible experience.

^ Back to Top

Can I return home the same day?

No. Facelifts and brow lifts require an overnight stay for observation purposes. Be sure to arrange for someone to pick you up the next day, take you home, and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

^ Back to Top

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most people return to work and their usual activity within ten days. Jogging, aerobics, bicycling and other non-contact sports are permitted three weeks after the procedure.

^ Back to Top

What is the age limit for a facelift?

Health, not age, determines how long you can wait to have a face lift. A healthy individual can have a facelift well into their eighties.

^ Back to Top

How long does a facelift last?

Actually, it depends upon the individual; each person is sagging and aging at a different rate. A facelift result generally rolls back the clock five to 10 years.

^ Back to Top

Click here to request a certificate for $100 off any Medical Spa package and a chance to discuss Facelift (Rhytidectomy) with our Board Certified Connecticut Plastic Surgeon at our Westport medical offices.