Face Lift

Today, the term “face lift” comprises several different procedural options for a patient, from the lifting or reshaping of one or two features to full-face and neck rejuvenation. A facelift is technically known as a rhytidectomy-the removal of rhytides, or wrinkles. Current techniques, however, allow for much more than the erasing of surface lines. The structural effects of aging can now be softened and obscured by removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles and redraping the skin of the face and neck. Dr. Loving consults with each face lift patient so as to determine the appropriate procedure or procedures. He understands that many patients want the more youthful aspect offered by plastic surgery, but fear that they may radically alter their appearance and look like they “had work done.” Most patients do not want an obvious change in their faces, only the fresher look and feel their skin and features had in former years.

Today, the term “face lift” comprises several different procedural options for a patient, from the lifting or reshaping of one or two features to full-face and neck rejuvenation. A facelift is technically known as a rhytidectomy-the removal of rhytides, or wrinkles. Current techniques, however, allow for much more than the erasing of surface lines. The structural effects of aging can now be softened and obscured by removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles and redraping the skin of the face and neck. Dr. Loving consults with each face lift patient so as to determine the appropriate procedure or procedures. He understands that many patients want the more youthful aspect offered by plastic surgery, but fear that they may radically alter their appearance and look like they “had work done.” Most patients do not want an obvious change in their faces, only the fresher look and feel their skin and features had in former years.

Since patients differ in their aesthetic desires, Dr. Loving offers a variety of treatment options. Forehead lifts, neck lifts, eyelid surgery, nose reshaping, collagen and Botox injections, chemical peels, laser resurfacing and dermabrasion are all considerations for the man or woman who wants to revitalize his or her facial appearance. A patient may choose one or more of these services in order to achieve his or her desired result. Some patients only want to soften the signs of stress, fatigue and worry that have crept into their features and do not so much want to look younger but rather healthier. With Dr. Loving, these patients will develop a conservative procedural plan that is mindful of age-appropriateness while emphasizing vitality.

Other patients want to rediscover the lineaments and textures of their youth. Dramatic improvement is their goal. Their consultations may lead to more extensive plans of surgeries and non-surgical treatments, which may be performed all at one time or in stages.

Surgery

Face lift patients are usually in their forties to seventies. Prospective face lift patients must have medical clearance before the operation and must thoroughly advise Dr. Loving of their medical histories, their medications and their skin’s healing and scarring tendencies. Patients must follow the specific instructions given them by Dr. Loving concerning eating and drinking, smoking and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. For patients who are concerned about incision sites, Dr. Loving will provide a careful explanation of expected placement of incisions and stitches.

Surgery is usually performed in Dr. Loving’s operating facility at 17 E. 84th Street, though patients may opt to have the procedure done in a hospital. Facial plastic surgery is usually performed under ”twilight“ anesthesia, which avoids the more serious implications of general anesthesia. General anesthesia is an option, however, for those patients who prefer it. Whether the operation is performed on an inpatient or outpatient basis, under ”twilight“ or general anesthesia, it is necessary for a companion to escort the patient home after surgery and to be available for assistance for the next day or two. Convalescence for a full facelift is usually about 2 weeks, though individuals differ in their healing abilities according to their ages and general states of health. Throughout the surgery and healing process, Dr. Loving and his staff are ready to answer questions and address concerns. Extensive examples of Dr. Loving’s facial work, including all of the face lift options, may be viewed in the photo albums kept in his office library.

To request more information or to schedule a personal appointment with Dr. Loving, please call 212-472-0900.