The facelift procedure continues to evolve. Over the years, the procedure has changed from simple skin lifting to more complex deeper plane techniques. Today, many different techniques exist, with outcomes that are consistently reliable and durable. As a talented board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Larry C. Leverett offers several facelift procedures that he carefully customizes according to the aesthetic needs of each patient in Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert and the surrounding communities of Phoenix.
What is a Facelift?
A facelift is a cosmetic surgery that tightens, firms and smooths skin around the mouth, eyes, nose and jaw. A facelift can correct the unwanted effects of aging, stress and sun exposure with natural-looking results.
How Much Does a Facelift Cost?
The cost of a facelift varies depending on the extent of surgery and the number of procedures that need to be done to reach your desired look. Many insurance companies do not cover facelift surgery unless it is needed to correct functional defects related to diseases or accidental injuries to the face. To help make facelifts more affordable to his patients, Dr. Leverett offers financing through CareCredit® and Prosper Healthcare Lending. Our office also accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, cash and cashier’s checks.
Benefits of a Facelift
People undergo facelifts to appear younger by erasing signs of aging. Some of the benefits of a facelift include:
- Diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, creating a more youthful appearance
- Tightens facial muscles to eliminate sagging skin
- Boosts self-confidence
- Improves facial tone
- Restores a positive self-image
Candidates for a Facelift
Some patients begin seeing the signs of aging around their neck, jowls and smile lines earlier than expected, and the non-surgical procedures are not enough of a correction for them. Therefore, patients may look at undergoing a facelift surgery as young as 35 years old and up to 80 years old. It is not uncommon for a patient who had a facelift earlier in life to undergo a secondary facelift as gravity begins to take effect. A clearance from your healthcare provider is required to proceed with surgery. Patients who are currently smoking must discontinue the use of any nicotine products (that includes gum and the patch) three months prior to surgery.
Your Facelift Surgery
The facelift procedure frequently involves incisions around the ears and depending on the patient may extend into the scalp. Once the incisions are made, the skin is gently elevated, and the deeper layers of the face are lifted or suspended. Muscle tightening, as well as liposuction of the neck and jowls, may be performed, and excess skin is either removed or repositioned. The procedure is often done on an outpatient basis and in some cases is done under IV sedation. The results are a softening of the unwelcome effects of gravity and a more youthful contour to the face and neck
Recovery from a Facelift
Many patients are pleasantly surprised at how quickly the recovery process is and report the discomfort level being significantly less than they anticipated. We do advise patients to take two weeks off from work and social events, as there is bruising and swelling following the procedure. We have patients begin anti-bruising remedies prior to surgery and topical treatments after to help reduce the bruising. Swelling is typically gone in seven to 10 days. During the first two weeks following surgery, you will have scheduled visits in our office for dressing and suture removal.
You only get to make a first impression once. Don’t let your impression be an old, tired, rundown one. If you live in or around the Greater Phoenix area, such as Ahwatukee, Chandler and Gilbert, please contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Larry C. Leverett to schedule your facelift consultation. Dr. Leverett and the staff at Body By Leverett are committed to helping you reach your cosmetic goals.