From the Research
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure designed to reduce visible signs of aging in the face and neck, and its presentation should cover the procedure's evolution, patient selection criteria, surgical techniques, and expected outcomes, as supported by the most recent evidence 1. The presentation of a rhytidectomy should begin by explaining the different types of facelifts, such as traditional, mini, mid-face, and deep plane techniques, highlighting how each addresses specific concerns. Key points to cover include:
- Patient evaluation, including assessment of skin elasticity, facial bone structure, and realistic expectations
- Preoperative planning, including medical clearance requirements and medications to avoid before surgery
- The surgical procedure itself, explaining incision patterns, tissue manipulation, SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) treatment, and closure techniques
- Anesthesia options, typically local with sedation or general anesthesia
- Recovery information, with patients typically experiencing swelling and bruising for 2-3 weeks, with complete healing taking several months
- Potential complications like hematoma, nerve injury, infection, and scarring
- Expected results, emphasizing that while a facelift can provide a more youthful appearance lasting 5-10 years, it cannot stop the aging process entirely, as noted in the recent study 1. It is essential to discuss the various face lift techniques, including superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) elevation and SMAS manipulation, and their advantages, disadvantages, and limitations, as described in the systematic review 1. Additionally, the presentation should highlight the importance of facial fat grafting for restoration of deep malar volume and its universal applicability, as well as its use in addressing specific limitations of different SMAS techniques, as discussed in the study 1. The goal of the presentation is to provide a comprehensive approach that offers both technical information for medical professionals and practical knowledge for potential patients, as supported by the recent evidence 1.