Rhytidectomy
A rhytidectomy procedure is more commonly known as a facelift procedure. The aim of this operation is to tighten and lift soft tissue skin in the facial area.
What Is A Rhytidectomy?
Rhytidectomy is a type of face surgery that helps to improve the appearance of the face and neck by tightening the skin. It can improve the signs of ageing and make the facial skin appear more youthful. It can be performed in combination with other facelift surgeries including a brow lift, fat transfer and chemical peels, which all have their individual benefits to improve the appearance of the skin.
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What Happens During A Rhytidectomy Surgery?
You should expect to be under general anaesthetic when the surgery is performed and it can take between 2-3 hours for the surgery to be completed. There are 3 types of rhytidectomy that can be performed in surgery:
SMAS Facelift: This involves cutting into the SMAS layer (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system layer) of the skin tissue to lift and tighten it. The incisions are applied on either side of your face around your ears. The skin is then tightened and excess skin is removed.
MACS Lift: This is a Minimal Access Cranial Suspension facelift which involves tightening the SMAS layer without cutting underneath it. This is due to suspension stitches being used. This type of facelift procedure eliminates scarring behind the ear because of this. It effectively involves less surgery but the results may not last as long compared to a SMAS lift.
Mid-Facelift: A mid-facelift focuses on the cheekbone area and to help lift them. It helps to improve the appearance of the lower eyelids and the cheekbones by making incisions on your hairline and either the lower eyelid or inside your mouth.
How Do I Prepare For The Surgery?
Information regarding how you prepare for your rhytidectomy will be discussed during your consultation. It’s important that you’re able to be honest as possible with us about your concerns and expectations about the surgery. This is so we can cater to your needs and ensure you feel as safe as possible. There will be precautions that you’ll need to take before the surgery. These will include:
– Stopping smoking
– Avoid taking any herbal or over the counter supplements/medication
– Ensuring someone will be available to pick you up after surgery
What Happens After Rhytidectomy Surgery?
You’ll be taken back to the ward after the surgery so that you’re mobile again after being under anaesthetic. You will initially feel a sense of discomfort and swelling after the surgery but this would be expected soon after. If you feel any severe pain, it can be helped through analgesia. Bandages will also be applied around your face after surgery but these will be removed around a day after surgery. After this, support garments will be provided so that the results of the surgery can be maintained.
Aftercare From The Facelift Surgery
Correct recovery from the face surgery will ensure that you maintain positive results. There are several steps that you can following the surgery to ensure this is the case:
– For the first week or so, avoid any large strains and too much movement in the face
– Ice packs or eye masks can be used for the first 72 hours after surgery to reduce swelling
– Avoid smoking
– Massage the scars
– Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 3 weeks
– Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure for at least 2 months to protect your facial skin
