Am I An Ideal Candidate for a Facelift?

If you are tired of looking in the mirror and seeing lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin, you may be giving some thought to undergoing a facelift. More than 120,000 of these transformative surgeries were performed in the U.S. in 2018, cementing its standing as one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. Why is that? In decades past, the surgery earned a reputation for making the face look overstretched, frozen or expressionless. However, thanks to advancements in technology, modern-day facelifts for Northern Virginia area women and men are giving natural-looking results that make their faces look younger and more refreshed. The surgery is also less invasive than before, allowing patients to heal more quickly and experience a shorter recovery time.

Despite these improvements, it doesn't mean that a facelift is the right procedure for everyone. Several criteria go into determining whether a patient is a good candidate for this complex surgery. The plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA are experts in the field of facial plastic surgery. Given their vast knowledge and experience, they can assess the cosmetic concerns of patients in Northern Virginia considering a facelift and if it is the best method for helping them reverse the hands of time.

Who needs a facelift?

In general, facelifts are effective at addressing and correcting conditions such as drooping jowls, skin laxity beneath the chin, and sagging skin in the middle of the face. Deep-set wrinkles under the eyes and facial creases that are prominent may also be improved. Individuals between the ages of 40-60 whose facial bone structure is well-defined and whose skin has retained a good amount of elasticity may be excellent candidates for the procedure.

Conversely, patients in their 30s and 40s who are just beginning to experience the early signs and symptoms of aging may be better suited for other, less invasive cosmetic procedures. For example, BOTOX and injectable dermal fillers are designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines as well as boost youthful-looking facial volume that may have begun to fade. Eyelid lifts, as well as forehead lifts, are also popular for creating a well-rested appearance.

According to a published study, patients who undergo facelifts during their 50s may actually experience longer-lasting results than those who choose to do at a more advanced age. This may be due to the fact that during this decade of life, the skin of patients considering a facelift in Northern Virginia still boasts enough elasticity to produce good results from the procedure. They also are less likely to experience post-surgical complications than older women and men. In most cases, the procedure can help to shave an average of 8-12 years from one's appearance.

No matter their age, patients who are considering a facelift in Northern Virginia should:

• Be in good health: A facelift is an elective surgery, meaning patients choose to have it. General health plays a pivotal role in staying safe during the procedure and healing properly afterward. Certain underlying medical conditions can increase the risk of adverse effects and may require treatment before surgery. The surgeons at Austin-Weston will thoroughly review your medical records and advise whether it is wise for you to proceed.
• Quit smoking: Smoking impairs circulation and slows healing, increasing the risk of infection, discomfort, and visible scarring. Patients are advised to stop smoking and refrain from using any products that contain nicotine for at least 6–8 weeks prior to their facelift.
• Have realistic expectations: A facelift can be a powerful tool for smoothing wrinkles and restoring a more youthful appearance, but it does not stop the aging process. Touch-up cosmetic treatments may be needed in the future to maintain results, and options like a mini facelift can target new concerns along the jawline or neck.

Is a facelift for you?

It can be difficult for men and women in Northern Virginia considering a facelift to decide whether to move forward with surgery. This tried-and-true procedure can be effective for improving the appearance of sagging skin in the middle of the face, reducing jiggling jowls, smoothing wrinkles, and eliminating loose skin that hangs below the chin. The plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA work closely with patients to help them get the noticeably firmer, smoother, younger-looking appearance that they want. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn how a facelift can help you look and feel your best.