What a Facelift Won't Do for You

It is common to try using a facelift to improve your look and appear younger than your years. This is just what this procedure is for. However, some people assume that it can change the way they look entirely, making them look like someone else. You should know that not only is this not the case, but you may not even notice much of a difference at all, as each patient's results varies.

One thing that you should know is that this surgery does not have much effect on the upper part of the face. In general, it is supposed to improve sagging or wrinkled skin, which means it mostly affects the lower area. This may include the jowls, the chin area, and the neck. If you are worried about the wrinkles in your forehead or around your eyes, you should consider other procedures, such as Botox. This can smooth out the upper facial region without doing anything for the lower area, so consider combining the two procedures for the best effects. Just ask your physician first if he or she would recommend both for you.

A facelift will not get rid of any other issues with your skin, other than sagging or wrinkles. If you are worried about acne, old scars, or uneven tone, you should look into other procedures, such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion. These are usually less invasive since no cutting is required, but you can also choose to combine both types of treatments for the most obvious results. If you are not sure which treatment would get you the outcome you want, consider going to a consultation given by a local plastic surgeon so you can find out more.

You may assume that since a facelift can make you look younger, some of your facial features will change. However, the only thing that will change is your skin, which will be smoother. Your nose will remain the same size, your eyes will not change, and your lips will not be fuller. If you want these changes made, look into rhinoplasty, an eyelid lift, or injectable fillers. In fact, an eyelid lift in particular often pairs nicely with a facelift since it reduces sagging or drooping of the eyelids, which means you can look a little younger after the procedure. Similarly, dermal fillers can improve your cheekbones and lips so you look a little more youthful, so consider these options.

If you want to change your entire look, it is possible with plastic surgery. However, a single procedure will not do it, so do not count on just one or two to make yourself barely recognizable. Instead, consult with your doctor to find out which surgeries can be combined to get the new look you want, allowing you to appear young and more attractive than ever. If you want more subtle results, though, a facelift may be exactly what you need. You can at least start with this treatment and then get more work done in the future if desired.