Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess skin from the aging face, including jowls, cheek skin laxity, and excess skin to the neck. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, and takes about two hours. Bruising and swelling may occur, although the postoperative recovery is usually one to two days. The incisions extend in front of the ear and up to the hairline, and behind the ear to the scalp. The facelift is the gold standard procedure for facial rejuvenation.

The results from a facelift can last five to ten years, and additional retightening procedures, including a repeat facelift, can be performed. Secondary facelifts usually involve less skin removal than the primary procedure. The hairline, especially the sideburn, can be affected by repeat facelift. The incisions can be modified by the plastic surgeon to preserve the sideburn in secondary facelifts.