Problem.

Deep facial or neck wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity and tone in the face and neck, deep creases between the base of the nose and the corners of the mouth, prominent jowls, vertical neck bands.

Who is a candidate?

• Anyone who feels they have a tired or aged appearance.
   
• A person with a loss of youthful chin and neck contours.

Procedure description.

Computer imaging assists in assessing the problem and simulating intended results. Typically, Dr. Casso makes incisions within the hairline above the ear that extend around the earlobe and end in or below the hairline behind the ear. After the incisions are made, the subcutaneous layers of the face and the neck muscles are tightened. The deeper layers are lifted and tightened also. Tightening of neck muscles may require a small incision under the chin. Finally, the facial skin is redraped, and excess skin is removed. The face lift can be subtle or more dramatic, depending on the location and extent of skin laxity. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and usually requires an overnight stay at CHRISTUS ST. JOHN HOSPITAL.

Recuperation and healing.

When the patient awakens from surgery, there will be dressings covering the head and neck, which are usually removed the following day.

The mild initial discomfort can be alleviated with oral medications. Daily showers and shampooing may be resumed the day after surgery. Sutures are removed within 10 days, and bruising and swelling will decrease to acceptable levels in 10 to 17 days. Most swelling resolves in four to six weeks, but continued improvement is apparent for several months.

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