Out of all the countless cosmetic procedures easily accessible today, no other treatment compares to a surgical facelift; at least where facial skin rejuvenation, with long-lasting results, is concerned (results can last up to ten years or more). The traditional facelift, also known as a full facelift, has been the go-to treatment for women (and men) long before other facial cosmetic procedures entered the picture. This is why it remains one of the most trusted and most popular facial plastic surgeries in the country and the world.

Is a traditional facelift right for you?

Patients must understand, however, that not everyone is a good candidate for a facelift. Key factors must be met before your facial plastic surgeon agrees to perform the procedure on you. Here’s how you know that a surgical facelift is the best cosmetic treatment for you:

You have advanced facial skin laxity

Basically, the purpose of a facelift is to take years off your face by lifting the skin on the mid to lower parts of your face. Depending on the facial plastic surgeon’s assessment of your skin, this may include lifting loose or sagging skin on your neck. But in essence, a traditional lift is recommended for patients with advanced skin laxity on the face, which means loose or sagging skin on the cheeks, under the jawline, and under the chin.

You have no medical conditions that put you at risk

If you bleed easily or have a history of prolonged healing, you may not be an ideal candidate for the procedure. If you have other underlying medical conditions that put you at risk, your plastic surgeon may also discourage you from undergoing treatment. This is why it’s important to discuss with your surgeon your medical history during your initial consultation. If a traditional lift puts your safety at risk, they may suggest other procedures that might be a better fit for you.

You can take time off to recover

A surgical facelift is a major procedure that will require about four to six weeks to recover. Follow-up check-ups will be required for the next three months as well. You will have to take care of the wound, change the dressing (or have it changed at the clinic), and take it easy while recovering. You will have to take time off work and need someone at home to help you recover during the first two weeks after surgery.

Are you a good candidate for a traditional facelift? Please feel free to call Capital Facial Plastic Surgery at (240) 630-8175 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Adam E. Singleton, MD. You may also click here to schedule an appointment.