Facelift (Rhytidectomy) in Montreal
Youthful Appearance
Long-Lasting Results
Boosted Confidence
What is a Facelift (Rhytidectomy)?
A facelift, medically known as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce visible signs of aging on the face and neck. It involves tightening loose or sagging skin, repositioning underlying tissues, and sometimes, removing excess fat, to create a smoother, more youthful appearance. It is often complemented by other procedures, such as eyelid surgery or skin treatments, for more comprehensive rejuvenating results.
How Long Does a Facelift Last?
The results of a facelift typically last between 10 to 15 years, but this can vary depending on factors like age, skin type, lifestyle, and overall health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking, wearing sunscreen, and following a good skincare routine, can help prolong the effects. Over time, some people may opt for additional treatments or touch-up procedures to maintain their rejuvenated appearance.
Facelift Procedure
A facelift begins with local anesthesia and deep sedation or general anesthesia. Discreet incisions are made around the hairline, ears, and chin. Excess skin is removed, and the incisions are closed. Dr. Zelhof can perform this procedure at the same time as a comprehensive full facial rejuvenation. Recovery involves swelling and bruising that fades over a few weeks.
Types of Facelift Surgeries
Deep Plane Facelift
A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique that lifts and repositions the deeper layers of the face, including the muscles, fat, and connective tissue, instead of merely tightening the skin. This approach allows for more natural-looking and longer-lasting results, as it addresses the root causes of sagging and aging.
Unlike a traditional facelift, which primarily focuses on skin tightening, a deep plane facelift improves midface volume, smooths deeper folds, and creates a more comprehensive rejuvenation, without the ‘pulled’ effect that can sometimes result from surface-level techniques.
Neck Lift
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that tightens loose skin and muscles around the neck, removing excess fat and reducing the appearance of a ‘turkey neck’ or sagging jowls.
Combining a neck lift with a facelift offers multiple benefits, providing a more comprehensive rejuvenation of both the face and neck. Dr. Zelhof typically addresses both areas at once, in order to create more balanced and natural results,and ensure a smoother transition between the face and neck.
Full Facial Rejuvenation
A full facial rejuvenation is a comprehensive approach to addressing the signs of aging across the entire face. Dr. Zelhof will work with you to understand your aesthetic goals and create a personalized treatment plan that creates a youthful, refreshed appearance tailored to your unique needs. This advanced approach focuses on the three key areas of the face: the periorbital region, midface, and jawline/neck. The procedure typically includes a Deep Plane Facelift and Neck Lift, along with a customized facial fat transfer, and can be complemented by additional restorative treatments such as upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, brow lift, or lip lift. The aim is to enhance and restore your facial features in a balanced, harmonious way, rejuvenating your appearance while ensuring natural, lasting results.
Facelift Before & After Photos
When considering a Facelift, it’s helpful to review several before and after photos to get a clearer sense of the results you prefer with the understanding that they are not a guarantee of your outcome. Dr. Zelhof specializes in achieving natural-looking results, and offers options to help restore the youth of your unique facial features in a way that feels both balanced and harmonious. Each facial rejuvenation procedure is customized to suit your individual anatomy and your specific aesthetic goals, to ensure a look that complements your face.
Post-Operative Care after a Facelift
Bandages
After surgery, bandages are applied to reduce swelling and support the face. They are typically removed within one to two days, though some patients may need to keep them on longer.
Showering and Washing
You can usually shower and gently wash your hair after two to three days. Use mild, fragrance-free products, and avoid rubbing or pulling at the incision areas.
Sleep
Sleep with your head elevated (using two to three pillows or a recliner) for at least one to two weeks to minimize swelling and bruising. Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach to prevent putting pressure on your face.
What to Avoid After a Facelift
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can delay healing.
- Stay away from direct sun exposure and always use sunscreen to protect healing skin.
- Refrain from putting makeup or skincare products on the incisions.
- Avoid tight clothing that needs to be pulled over your head, as it may disturb the incisions.
Activities and Exercise
Light walking is encouraged shortly after surgery to promote circulation, but strenuous activities, bending, or heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks.Exercise can be resumed once your doctor gives the go- ahead.
General Healing
Healing after a facelift varies, but most patients experience swelling and bruising for a few weeks. Residual swelling can last up to several months, with final results starting to show after about three months. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Zelhof will ensure proper healing and allow for adjustments, if needed.
How Much Does a Facelift Cost?
The cost of a deep plane face and neck lift starts at $18,500. Dr. Zelhof does not offer traditional skin-only facelifts. Additional restorative treatments, such as customized facial fat transfer, upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, brow lift, or lip lift, can be incorporated to achieve a comprehensive facial rejuvenation and will require a personalized quote.This final price typically covers operating room rental fees, surgical materials, anesthesia, post-operative care, and the surgery itself.
Meet Dr. Zelhof
Triple Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Montreal
Doctor Céline Zelhof is a distinguished french surgeon with triple international certification in plastic surgery. She specializes in facial aesthetic surgery, full facial rejuvenation, and breast corrective procedures, bringing a refined approach to achieving natural, elegant results.
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