A facelift (rhytidectomy) can improve overall signs of aging in your face, including sagging, deep lines, hanging jowls, loose skin, and double chin. A facelift tightens the muscles in the face and neck, and it also removes excess skin.

A neck lift is generally included with a facelift so that your overall appearance is consistent.

Over time, your natural brow position droops (called brow ptosis). When combined with sagging eyelids, this can cause a sleepy or angry appearance. You may be compensating for this by raising your eyebrows in a higher position.

To determine whether your eyebrows are lower than desired, look in a mirror and completely relax your forehead and eyelids. When completely relaxed, this will show you the natural position of your brows.

A brow lift, also referred to as a forehead lift, raises the brows and can also relax the wrinkles above your forehead. Many patients opt to combine a browlift with upper eyelid surgery if the eyelids are also drooping. This combination surgery can provide a dramatic result.

Brow lift surgery can be performed in different ways, and your plastic surgeon can discuss with you what is most appropriate. It will depend on factors like your hairline and forehead size, as well as your desired outcome.

A neck lift (lower rhytidectomy) addresses the area around the jawline and neck. It can remove the skin and fat that creates the appearance of a double chin, tighten loose skin on the neck, and improve muscle banding in the neck to get rid of unnatural contours.

Some patients opt for a neck lift because their upper face may not have significant signs of aging, but they want to get rid of a double chin or excessing wrinkling at the neck. A neck lift can be combined with other procedures like a brow lift.

Recovery may differ based upon the type of lift surgery you have. Each person and circumstance is different, so the following recovery details are a guideline and may not be what the doctor recommends.

Most patients can resume normal activity in about 10 days, although you should avoid lifting heavy objects and vigorous exercise. Brow and forehead lift surgery patients will have swelling and bruising following their procedure. This bruising and swelling may occur on areas of the face that were not operated on.

Some patients may have temporary staples or screws that hold the elevated brow in place. These will be removed in about 2 weeks. The forehead may be taped or bandaged to reduce any inflammation and bruising that may develop. Small tubes may be placed under the skin temporarily to collect any excess fluid or blood that may accumulate. Patients may experience itching, numbness, or tingling at the incision site(s). This should dwindle over time.

You will receive specific information regarding:

• How to treat incisions and drains
• Any medications that should be taken and how to take them safely
• Anything that you would need to look for or be concerned about at the site of the incision or for overall well-being
• When to schedule any follow-up appointments

You should look for a surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and who has completed an accredited medical school program and residency in plastic surgery.