There are many different types of face lifts and actually several components
of face lift which might be performed as isolated procedures. For instances,
one may perform neck lift with brow lift, or "mini face lift",
as isolated procedures or may combine neck lift with mid face rejuvenation
or brow lift with mid face rejuvenation, the so called deep plane face lift.
Choice of the appropriate procedure often depends upon the degree of facial
rejuvenation required. If the patient's primary problem is that of hanging,
sagging skin of the neck as opposed to deep grooves in the nasolabial region
of the face then emphasis might be placed on rejuvenation of the neck than
of the brow and mid face. If upper face sagging is present without significant
neck deformity (a rather unusual condition) then so called deep plane or
subperiosteal face lift might be the best choice. In any event restoration
of the face requires lifting of those components which have settled due
to the effects of gravity over the years. Improvements in technique, now
allow for more total restoration and longer lasting restoration than was
previously possible.
Chemical
Peel/Skin Rejuvenation
Changes in the surface of the skin should be considered separately from
that of the need for face lift. The two conditions may well develop simultaneously,
and both require treatment, but it is a misunderstanding to think that face
lift will correct very fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, and skin blemishes.
These are more appropriately treated by chemical peel, the depth of which
varies depending upon the peeling agent chosen and/or laser skin resurfacing.
Whichever modality is chosen for skin resurfacing, the superficial layers
of the skin are removed and the regenerative layer of the skin is stimulated
to produce a new layer which is thicker, healthier and blemish-free.
Recovery after skin resurfacing varies depending upon the depth treatment
applied and preexisting conditions. In all cases, a period of erythema (redness)
is present and varies in length depending upon the depth of resurfacing
and the agent applied. In some instances- especially around the mouth where
deep rhagades exist in smokers- it is desirable to perform a second resurfacing
procedure some months following the first. |
