What is a facelift and what can it do for you?

Facelifting, medically known as rhytidectomy, is one of the most effective aesthetic procedures for combating the visible signs of aging. As we age, skin loses elasticity, facial muscles weaken, and volume decreases. This results in sagging, deep wrinkles and a tired appearance.

In this blog, we'll explore what a facelift is, how it's performed, who are ideal candidates, and how this procedure can help you regain a rejuvenated and natural appearance.

What is a face-lift?

Facelift is a cosmetic surgery that seeks to improve the visible signs of aging on the face and neck. Through advanced techniques, the deep layers of facial tissues are repositioned, excess skin is removed and the facial contour is redefined for a firmer and more youthful appearance.

Unlike surface treatments, a facelift acts on internal structures of the face, such as the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS), achieving longer lasting and natural results.

What areas of the face does a facelift treat?

A face-lift can be adapted to the specific needs of each patient. There are different types of lifting, such as the mini lift, the medium lift or the deep plane facelift, and each one addresses different areas of the face.

Most common areas treated:

• Saggy cheeks
• Deep nasolabial lines
• Jaw and jowls
• Neck with loose skin or muscle bands
• Grooves and wrinkles in the lower part of the face

It is common to combine a facelift with other procedures such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or eyebrow lift to achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation.

Benefits of a face-lift

Facelifting not only improves external appearance, but it also elevates personal confidence. Looking and feeling younger, many patients experience an improvement in their self-esteem.

Key benefits:

• Improves skin firmness
• Eliminates excess sagging skin
• Defines the contour of the face and neck
• Smoothes deep wrinkles
• Offers long-lasting results (up to 10 years or more)
• Rejuvenated yet natural appearance

Dr. Richer's approach is to achieve results that reflect a fresh, rested version of yourself, without an exaggerated or artificial appearance.

Who are ideal candidates for a facelift?

Facelifts are indicated for men and women who want to reverse the signs of moderate to severe aging. There is no specific age, but most patients are between 40 and 70 years old.

Ideal candidates:

• Noticeable sagging skin on the cheeks, neck, or jaw
• Deep wrinkles that don't improve with non-invasive treatments
• Good general health and no medical conditions affecting healing
• Realistic expectations about results

During the initial consultation, Dr. Richer performs a comprehensive facial evaluation to determine if lifting is the most appropriate procedure or if it can be combined with other treatments.

How is a face-lift done?

The facelift is performed in a certified operating room under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, depending on the case.

Step-by-step process:

1. Custom surgical design: The technique is planned according to the patient's needs.
2. Strategic incisions: they are usually performed in front of the ear, behind it and sometimes under the chin.
3. Repositioning the SMAS: deep layers of facial tissue are lifted and tightened.
4. Elimination of excess skin: Excess skin is trimmed to achieve a natural finish.
5. Closure with fine sutures: Scars are minimized, which are hidden in the hairline or behind the ears.

The procedure can last between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the complexity and if other techniques are combined.

Recovery and aftercare

The recovery after a facelift is gradual and requires certain specific care. Dr. Richer and his team provide close follow-up throughout the process.

Recovery phases:

• Day 1-3: possible swelling, bruising and a feeling of tension. Rest is recommended.
• Week 1-2: the stitches are removed, the swelling decreases. You can now resume gentle activities.
• Month 1-3: the final result is being revealed. You can completely return to the usual routine.

It is recommended to avoid exposure to the sun, smoking and strenuous activities for the first few weeks.

Results: natural, durable and personalized

One of patients' biggest fears is to look artificial after surgery. With Dr. Richer's technique, this isn't a problem. His modern and precise approach seeks to restore youth without altering the facial essence.

What you can expect:

• A rejuvenated, unstretched face
• More defined facial contours
• Results that last 8 to 10 years or longer
• A renewed, yet authentic version of you

Every face is unique, and so is every face-lift. That's why Dr. Richer adapts the technique to the anatomy and goals of each patient.

Combination with other treatments

To enhance the results of a facelift, many patients choose to combine it with other procedures that address complementary areas.

Treatments that are usually combined:

• Blepharoplasty (eyelids): improves tired eyes
• Eyebrow lift: raises the upper part of the face
• Dermal fillers or autologous fat: restore volume
• Laser or chemical peels: improve skin texture and tone

In expert hands, this combination offers complete and harmonious rejuvenation.

FAQs

What age is ideal for a face-lift?

There is no exact age, but it is usually between 40 and 70 years old, when the signs of aging are moderate to severe.

Is a face-lift painful?

The procedure is painless thanks to the anaesthesia. During recovery, there may be mild discomfort, which is controlled with medication.

How long do the results of a face-lift last?

Between 8 and 10 years, depending on lifestyle, genetics and aftercare.

Will a face-lift leave visible scars?

The scars are hidden in the hairline or behind the ears and, over time, become almost imperceptible.

Can I look natural after a lift?
Yes. Dr. Richer's goal is to achieve results that respect your traits, without altering your expression or identity.

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Richer

If you're considering a facelift and want safe, natural and long-lasting results, Schedule an appointment with Dr. Richer in Monterrey. You will receive a personalized assessment and a surgical plan adapted to your aesthetic needs.