Rhytidectomy

(Surgical Removal of Wrinkles, Facial Rejuvenation, facelift)

Facial lines are signs of age may now be smoothed with skin treatments like creams, chemical peels, dermal abrasion, etc. Facial flaccidness, a sagging chin and the loss of the mandibular line can only be corrected with surgery by performing a rhytidectomoy.
Today, with the evolution of surgical procedures, this kind of surgery are being requested by younger people. generally, surgeries performed on patients between forty and fifty years old are exhibit better results than those performed on older patients, since their skin is better prepared, is less prone to dehydration and does not present as many wrinkles and folds, which can now be corrected by relocating tissues.
Patients usually have many doubts when considering facial surgery. However, it is always good to remember that undergoing surgery is a personal decision and obeys to the patient’s taste and willingness.

How long will the operation last?

When we perform this procedure, we try to return to their place those structures that, due to the effects of time, have given in to gravity or tissue aging. We apply facial techniques allowing to preserve the result obtained for over the years on average. If the condition of the skin and the rest of the structures is good at the moment of surgery, the outcome will be optimal and will last many years.

What will be scars like? Will they disappear?

The incisions made to correct the medium and lower third of the face are located before the outer ear and extend towards the back of the ears. They leave very discreet scars that can be easily concealed with the hair. After six months, the scars will be less evident.

What type of anesthesia is used? How long will the operation last?

When we perform full facial surgeries involving working on eyelids, forehead, medium and lover third and neck, it is preferable to use general anesthesia. If the patient does not suffer from anxiety and cooperates with the surgeon, then the procedure may be performed using local anesthesia with or without sedation. On average, the operation should take three hours.

Is hospitalization long?

In accordance to the needs of each individual case, it should not take more than half a day or an entire day.

What is pain like?

The procedure produces slight pain that can be tolerated with common pain-killers such as acetaminophen.

When will the stitches be removed?

On the eyelids, they are removed between three and five days after surgery. The preauricular stitches (before the ear) will be removed on the eighth day. And the rest of the stitches is removed fifteen days after surgery.

What special care should I receive?

Normally, we use bandages around the head, which are removed on the following day after surgery. In some cases, we leave a small drainage, which is also removed on the following day.

How should I sleep?

It will be good to lift your head a bit when you lay down, as this will prevent the formation of hematomas and reduce swelling. On the first day, you will have to sleep on your back. After the second day, you may turn your head a bit sideways.

Can I get my head wet?

On the following day after surgery, you must wash your head using neutral shampoo. From the on, every time you wash your head, you will have to treat your injury with an antiseptic.

What other things can I do? What should I not do?

You may use hydrating facial creams (your choice).
Strong physical activity is to be avoided during at least three weeks. Sunbathing will only be allowed after three weeks. You may wear makeup around your eyes three days after the stitches have been removed, although you may apply makeup the rest of your on the second day after surgery in order to conceal any small hematoma that may have formed.