The exact steps of a face and neck lift procedure can vary depending on the specific techniques used by the surgeon, but in general, the following are the steps that may be involved.
Anesthesia
The first step of a face and neck lift procedure is anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the patient’s individual needs and the surgeon’s preferences. There are two main types of anesthesia used for face and neck lift procedures: local anesthesia with sedation and general anesthesia.
Local anesthesia with sedation involves numbing the area to be treated with a local anesthetic, while the patient is also given sedatives to help them relax and feel more comfortable during the procedure. This type of anesthesia allows the patient to remain conscious and able to communicate with the surgeon during the procedure while also reducing the sensation of pain and discomfort.
General anesthesia involves putting the patient into a deep sleep during the procedure, using a combination of medications that are delivered through an IV. This type of anesthesia is generally used for more extensive procedures or for patients who prefer to be completely asleep during the surgery.
The choice of anesthesia will depend on a variety of factors, including the patient’s medical history, personal preferences, and the extent of the procedure being performed. The surgeon will discuss the anesthesia options with the patient before the procedure and will make a recommendation based on their individual needs and circumstances.
Incisions
The second step of a face and neck lift procedure involves making incisions in the skin. The exact location and length of the incisions will depend on the specific technique used by the surgeon, as well as the extent of the procedure.
Typically, the incisions are made in inconspicuous locations, such as the hairline or behind the ears, to minimize visible scarring. The surgeon may also make a small incision under the chin to access the neck muscles and tissues.
Once the incisions are made, the surgeon will carefully lift the skin and underlying tissues to access the muscles and other structures of the face and neck. The surgeon may use specialized surgical instruments to lift and reposition the facial and neck muscles, removing excess skin, fat, and tissue to create a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Depending on the extent of the procedure and the specific needs of the patient, the surgeon may use a variety of techniques to lift and tighten the underlying tissues, including:
Deep plane facelift technique: This technique involves repositioning the deeper layers of the face, including the fat pads and muscles, to achieve a more natural-looking result.
SMAS facelift technique: This technique involves lifting and tightening the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which is a layer of muscle and connective tissue located beneath the skin.
Neck lift technique: This technique involves tightening the muscles and tissues of the neck to address sagging skin and excess fat.
Once the necessary lifting, repositioning, and contouring are completed, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures, staples, or other techniques. The incision lines are typically placed in natural creases or hairlines to minimize visible scarring. The surgeon will then apply dressings or bandages to protect the incision sites and support the healing process.
Skin and muscle tightening
The surgeon will lift and tighten the underlying muscles and tissues of the face and neck. They may use techniques such as deep plane lifting or SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) lifting to achieve the desired results.
Excess skin removal
The surgeon will remove any excess skin that has been stretched or sagging due to aging or weight loss.
Fat removal or redistribution
The surgeon may also remove or redistribute fat in the face and neck to improve the contour and appearance.
Incision closure
The surgeon will close the incisions with sutures or other techniques and may also use surgical staples or tissue glue.
Dressings and bandages
The patient’s face and neck will be wrapped in bandages and dressings to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.
The exact details of the procedure will depend on the specific needs and goals of the patient, as well as the surgeon’s techniques and preferences. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine if a face and neck lift is the right option for you and to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure.
