Facelift Procedures

Facelift (Rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure designed to smooth and firm the skin, providing a fresh, youthful appearance. Throughout one’s life, the sun’s radiation, stress, gravity, and other factors cause the skin to sag which result in a more aged appearance. Areas of the face and neck, in particular around the jaw line, are especially prone to the aging process. Though these changes are gradual, wrinkles and other signs of aging can make individuals “feel older” than they really are. Surgery for a facelift involves the removal and realignment of facial and neck skin, and in some instances the removal of excess fat

Dr. DeLange has perfected the EsteticaLift. Our EsteticaLift or Mini-Lift is often performed in combination with other facial cosmetic procedures and can be performed any time signs of aging begin to appear. As with any other procedures, the doctor will asses your needs, your skin quality, and other factors to decide on right facelift procedure that will give you the best results. Dr. DeLange is a master in providing his patients, men or women with a minimally invasive procedure that gives them natural results. This procedure was designed to improve the laxity of jowls, cheeks, loose neck (turkey neck) and facial skin with no need for major anesthesia. He is always researching the latest in plastic surgery techniques to ensure their patients are getting the best possible care and results.

The EsteticaLift only takes about an hour and the recovery is quicker and more comfortable than with a traditional facelift, with more natural results, avoiding pulled and unnatural “face lift “look. You will still look like yourself, but with a more youthful and rested appearance. Because of the vertical nature of the pull, it simply re-positions the facial tissues back where they were prior to the aging process resulting in a very natural look.

Reasons for considering one of our Facelifts

A a facelift is the right procedure for you if:

• You want to look like you, but 15 years younger
• Get rid of the laxity of your jowls and cheeks
• Look like you feel on the inside! 

Are you a good candidate for a Facelift?

You may be a good candidate for facelift surgery if:

• Your face has aged and your skin and muscle laxity (looseness) are the primary factors in your appearance
• You want a more youthful appearance in your face
• You want to look rejuvenated but not “done”
• You are in your late 40’s and early 50’s
• You have realistic expectations. It is very helpful to look at
  Before and After pictures to assist you with you expectations and your decision process.
• You do not smoke. If you are a smoker, you are highly encouraged to refrain from smoking for at least a week prior to your surgery date and continue to refrain from smoking for two weeks or until your incisions have healed. This will promote faster healing and reduce the risk of infection.

How long will the results of the EsteticaLift last?

They will last forever. You will continue to age which depends on many factors including genetics, lifestyle, and skin elasticity, sun exposure, but you will always look younger. The effects of one of our facelifts will be with you forever.

How do our facelift procedures differ from the Life Style Lift that you hear so much about?

Life Style Lift is a national chain with surgeons of various training & experience. However, but not all have been Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Some minimally invasive or limited incision procedures are appropriate for certain patients but certainly not for all patients. In many cases, these procedures give limited results and therefore limited patient satisfaction.

How is the surgery performed?

The standard procedure for a facelift commonly involves making small incisions just inside the hairline, following the contour in front of the ear, and continuing under the earlobe to the backside of the ear and to the lower scalp. Tissue and fat deposits are separated, the skin is stretched and tightened, and any excess skin is removed. If the neck line requires attention, an additional incision is made under the chin and the same procedure is again followed. Very small sutures are used to close the incisions and to minimize the chance of scarring. Small metal staples may also be utilized at the hairline.

A facelift usually takes about 1.5-2 hours and is performed under light IV sedation. It can also be done under simple local anesthesia. Sometimes other procedures may be performed in separate visits or at the same time.

There are several different facelift techniques that can be employed. We utilize a two layered approach which tightens both the underlying muscle layer and skin. This system avoids an unattractive pulled look and provides much more longevity to the results.

Where is the surgery performed?

The surgery is performed in Estetica Institute’s accredited surgical center, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Our surgeries are performed at our state of the art surgical ORs by a highly trained staff of professionals who all maintain the highest credentials. Our facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF).

How long does the surgery take?

Typically, the facelift procedure takes about one to three hours to perform. Patient will recover for about a half-hour after the procedure, and then may go home.

Can I drive myself home?

You cannot drive yourself home after the surgery. We suggest that you arrange for a ride home with a friend or relative. We are happy to help you arrange for a ride and some overnight help if necessary.

What happens after surgery? What is the recovery process?

Immediately after a facelift or EsteticaLift procedure, the face is fitted with bandages in order to decrease the recovery time and to reduce swelling. Ice or frozen peas are applied to keep the face cooled down and reduce discomfort and swelling. Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing and recovery process. You should be able to return to most activities in about one week. The sutures are normally removed within a week. Amazingly there is very little pain associated with this operation.

Most patients describe a vague discomfort and a moderately tight feeling either on the neck or face. Any discomfort can be treated effectively with oral medication.

Using the most modern techniques and surgical skill, this amazing procedure can truly return your appearance to a more youthful and refreshed look!

Our caring and highly trained staff is here to help from your initial consultation through your recovery. The doctors are just a phone call away 24-7 for you after any surgical procedure.

For more information about face lift procedures performed by the expert plastic surgery staff at Esthetic Institute or to schedule an appointment, please call 561.880.9411.