A lower facelift (often just referred to as a facelift) treats visible signs of aging in the lower area of the face and around the neck.
These include deep facial creases, hanging skin, sagging jowls, and sagging and banding in the neck. The procedure restores firmness and contour to the area by tightening and lifting underlying tissue, removing excess fat and sagging skin. Smokers may not be suitable because of the increased risk of skin death.
What will a lower facelift not do?
A lower facelift will not correct signs of aging in the forehead or around your eyes, nor will it address fine lines or uneven skin tone and texture. It will not stop the aging process.
Will I have scars?
Yes, scars will form at the incision site(s), normally within the hairline or the creases of the face and ears (see treatment snapshot).
Will I have that “facelift look”?
This can result if the skin is overstretched or if it is lifted without appropriate adjustment to the underlying structures. This was more of a problem in the past when face lifts were “skin only” and had not advanced to include the underlying tissue, which is also subject to the effects of ageing.
What about the newer “mini” techniques?
Recently “mini” techniques have been popularised such as the MACS lift, S-lift and thread lifts. They have been devised to minimise scars and the extent of surgery. They offer more limited spectrum facial improvement and results may not be as long lasting.
What are the risks?
Overall, this is a safe procedure with few complications. However, like all cosmetic procedures there are risks involved. There are general risks associated with surgery as well as risks specific to this procedure. Your surgeon will discuss these with you during your consultation. You should then reassess whether the procedure is right for you. Problems include injury to facial nerves (causing loss of motion, muscle weakness or persistent areas of numbness), an asymmetrical look and hair loss along the scar. As with all surgeries problems may arise related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection or scarring. |
