Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)

Dr. Michael Epstein has performed hundreds of facelifts with beautiful, natural results.  In the paragraphs below, he explains the face lift procedure, how a facelift is performed and the expected recovery time.

What is a Rhytidectomy?

A rhytidectomy (commonly referred to as a facelift) cannot stop the aging process. It can, however, improve the visible signs of aging by providing an overall lift to the lower 2/3′s of your face by tightening loose skin in the jowls, neck and jaw line. Because a facelift does not eliminate wrinkles on the forehead or the crow’s feet or bags under the eyes, it can be combined with a brow lift and/or eyelid surgery to compliment your results. Facelifting is often combined with fat grafting and skin resurfacing to obtain complete facial rejuvenation.

How is a Rhytidectomy performed?

Rhytidectomy is an outpatient surgical procedure performed at our facility, Northbrook Plastic Surgery. There are many different ways to approach a facelift depending on your facial structure and the technique that Dr. Epstein’s chooses to use. For a classic facelift, incisions typically begin above the hairline at the temples, extend in a natural line in front of the ear and continue behind the earlobe to the lower scalp. The skin is separated from the fat and muscle below, the underlying muscles and membranes are tightened, the skin is pulled back, and the excess is removed. Stitches secure layers of tissue and close the incisions. Metal clips may be used on the scalp. Dr. Epstein performs many types of facelifts, some of which leave no visible scars.  This procedure takes approximately 2-4 hours, depending on the extent of the facelift.

What to expect during the recovery period:

• Bruising and swelling in the affected area are normal and are to be expected. These symptoms will fade within 1-2 weeks after surgery
• Discomfort, which can be controlled with medication
• Sutures and/or staples will be removed 5 to 7 days after surgery, sometimes longer if necessary
• If a head garment is used, it should be worn 1-2 weeks after surgery
• Makeup can be applied after 2 weeks
• Avoid direct sunlight for several weeks and use a good sunscreen
• Return to light activity within a few days
• Full activity may resume 3-4 weeks post-op

In private practice since 1992, Dr. Michael A. Epstein has received critical acclaim for his exceptional results and advanced surgical techniques.  An active member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, he has been featured on numerous television programs and quoted in dozens of newspapers and magazines nationwide. A trusted resource who is highly respected by both the media and his peers, Dr. Epstein’s training, education and surgical skills have made him one of Chicagoland’s leading and most gifted plastic surgeons. His offices are in Northbrook, Illinois.