FACELIFT (rhytidectomy)

WHAT IS A FACELIFT (rhytidectomy)?

A facelift is a remarkable procedure that corrects the effects of aging and gives people they youthful appearance they desire. The procedure involves tightening the facial and neck skin and muscles and removing excess skin.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM A FACELIFT?

Any time after the signs of aging begin a facelift can be performed. As people grow older the natural aging process, genetic influences, exposure to the sun and other factors cause the skin to wrinkle and sag. Fatty tisse directly beneath the skin is also decreased making the skin sag and fit more loosely.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE PROCEDURE?

Prior to the procedure Todd B. Engen, M.D. will perform a thorough medical exam. He will discuss with you your expectations and together you can decide on a realistic outcome. Photographs are taken and the procedure details are discussed at length.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT IN SURGERY?

Dr. Engen will perform your surgery at a surgery center or hospital. You may be given general anesthesia to sleep during the procedure or a local anesthesia and stay awake. Dr. Engen will work on one side of the face at a time. He will create incisions inside the hairline at the temple, running in front of the ear then around the earlobe and behind the ear, ending in the hair of the scalp. Loose skin is separated from underlying tissue and is pulled up and back and excess skin is removed. Connective tissue and sagging muscles are tightened, and in some cases, fat deposits are removed from beneath the chin and neck. Tiny sutures are used to close the incisions. The procedure can take from 3 to 5 hours.

WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE?

After surgery loose bandages are applied and removed within a few days. To control any pain oral medication is prescribed. Dr. Engen will determine when to remove your sutures. Scars from the incisions will fade significantly with time and are largely unnoticable. Swelling and discoloration will disappear in a week or two and is reduced by elevatingyour head. For several weeks you will be advised to avoid the sun and wear sunscreen when outdoors.

TO SCHEDULE:

Dr. Engen is a skilled surgeon using the latest techniques when performing facelifts. To schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Engen call the Excel Cosmetic Surgery office.

Excel Cosmetic Surgery Center `1735 N State St. Provo,UT ` (801)379-2900