Like any cosmetic surgery, a facelift can be the right option for some individuals but not for others. At Ridenour Plastic Surgery in St. Louis, MO, we take a close look at each patient to make sure they are good candidates for the procedure. We consider several factors before recommending surgery, including your overall health, the degree of aging-related changes, and the specific areas you want to improve. With this approach, we only move forward if the surgery is appropriate and beneficial for you.
Why the Face Ages
Several changes happen to the structures of the face that contribute to a more aged appearance. Loss of skin elasticity is one of the most noticeable factors. Over time, the production of collagen and elastin—the proteins that keep the skin firm and resilient—slows down. The skin becomes thinner and is less able to bounce back. This causes sagging and wrinkles.
At the same time, fat redistribution and bone volume also change. Fat pads that once gave your face a youthful fullness begin to shrink in some areas, such as the cheeks, and accumulate in others, like the jawline. Bone resorbs around the mouth, jaw and eye sockets. Changes in the fat and bone content of the face can cause a heavier lower face or features such as a weak jawline and bags under the eyes.
What Can a Facelift Do?
Tighten Loose Skin
Facelift surgery addresses sagging by removing excess skin and tightening the remaining tissue. This can create smooth lines along the jawline and cheeks. While this does not stop the natural aging process, it can reduce visible signs of aging and provide longer-lasting results compared to non-surgical treatments.
Reposition Facial Tissues
When facial tissues and fat shift, a facelift repositions these tissues to restore their original placement. This step is especially effective for lifting the mid-face, reducing the appearance of jowls, restoring the shape of the cheek and refining the jawline. During a facelift, we can also lift the underlying muscular structure for a more supported and natural-looking lift.
Do Facelifts Offer Natural-Looking Results?
When performed with careful attention to detail, facelifts can provide very natural-looking results. The goal isn’t to make you look like a different person but to help you look like a more refreshed version of yourself. Modern surgical techniques focus on repositioning underlying tissues and draping the skin naturally back over these tissues to avoid a pulled or windswept appearance.
Factors That Determine Candidacy for Facelift Surgery
Facial and Aging Concerns
Candidacy for rhytidectomy depends on the type and extent of facial aging. Noticeable sagging along the jawline and neck, a loss of facial contours, and deep creases indicate that surgery may be the right option since these more severe signs of aging cannot be treated with non-surgical approaches. We evaluate whether your particular concerns align with the improvements a facelift procedure can provide.
Physical Health
Good overall health is essential for any surgical procedure. Conditions such as unmanaged diabetes, high blood pressure, or smoking can affect healing and increase risks. During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history and make sure we deem it safe for you to proceed with surgery.
Skin Elasticity
While aging reduces skin elasticity, some degree of flexibility helps produce optimal results. The remaining skin should be able to adapt to its new position after the facelift. If your skin lacks sufficient elasticity, we may discuss alternative or supplemental treatments to improve your skin’s texture and enhance your outcomes.
Realistic Expectations
Understanding what a facelift can and cannot do is key to a successful and satisfying outcome. This surgery can improve visible signs of aging, but it doesn’t stop the aging process. We’ll talk about what’s achievable based on your anatomy and goals, and give you guidance for maintaining your results for as long as possible after the surgery.
Lifestyle Considerations
Your daily habits and overall lifestyle are important to consider while determining candidacy. Smoking, excessive sun exposure, or fluctuating weight can affect both your healing process and long-term results. We’ll discuss any adjustments you might need to make before and after surgery to support a smooth recovery and lasting benefits.
Is a Facelift Right for You? What to Expect
Planning Your Surgery
During the planning phase, we’ll review your medical history, discuss your specific concerns, and determine whether the procedure will be suitable based on both. You’ll receive detailed preparation instructions, including any medications to avoid and tips for optimizing your health before surgery. This is also the time to plan for your recovery period, such as arranging transportation and making sure you have support at home. During this time, you’ll have two hour-long consultations: one to determine if this surgery is right for you, and one to make sure you are prepared for the procedure.
During the Surgery
Facelift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the specifics of your procedure and what you and your surgeon decide during the consultation. The surgery may take place in our office or a separate surgical facility. Most patients have in-office surgery with IV sedation anesthesia. When you arrive, you will change into a gown and we will make surgical markings. Anesthesia will be administered and Dr. Ridenour will begin making incisions, lifting and repositioning underlying tissues, tightening skin, and removing excess skin as needed. Incisions are carefully placed around the hairline and natural contours of the ear to minimize visibility. Depending on the complexity, the surgery may take several hours, and you’ll spend time in a recovery area before heading home.
Facelift Recovery
Facelift recovery requires some planning, but with the right preparation, it’s manageable. Initial swelling and bruising are expected and typically subside within a couple of weeks. Most patients can return to light daily activities within 10–14 days, although more strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks. You’ll be provided with specific aftercare instructions, such as keeping your head elevated and avoiding certain movements to support healing. Regular follow-up visits help us monitor your progress and ensure your recovery is on track.
Taking Your Next Steps With a Facelift Consultation
A facelift can address multiple signs of aging by tightening loose skin, repositioning facial tissues, and restoring youthful contours. At Ridenour Plastic Surgery in St. Louis, MO, we can help determine whether this surgery is right for you. To learn more or schedule a consultation, use our online form or call us at (314) 501-7946.
