Everyone has looked in the mirror and seen the dreaded progression of laugh lines into wrinkles and the loss of a distinct jawline into jowls. Unfortunately, aging is a natural process that can be sped up or slowed down by a number of external and internal causes, including stress, thin skin, smoking, UV damage, loss of fat, gravity, and hereditary factors. The good news is that a Facelift also known as a rhytidectomy at the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery can help you regain control and look years younger by restoring youthful contours and minimizing the effects of aging.
Restore Youthful Radiance
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the visible signs of aging on the face and neck. This procedure targets sagging skin, deep creases, and loss of muscle tone, aiming to restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance. At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, our surgeons perform work of the under-the-skin "SMAS" layer for a natural, aesthetically pleasing, and long-lasting facelift. With these advanced techniques, we achieve natural, long-lasting results tailored to each patient's unique needs and aesthetic goals.
We've Got You Covered
Our center offers a variety of facelift options to cater to different concerns and desired outcomes. Your surgeon may recommend one of the following types of facelifts:
A standard facelift addresses moderate to significant signs of aging by tightening the underlying SMAS layer and removing excess skin. This procedure provides comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower face and neck.
An extended facelift includes the benefits of a standard facelift while also targeting the forehead area. This approach is ideal for patients who wish to address signs of aging in both the mid-face and upper face regions.
A mini facelift, also known as a short scar facelift, is a less invasive option that focuses on early signs of aging. It involves smaller incisions and a shorter recovery time, making it suitable for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity.
An SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) facelift is a specialized type of facelift that targets the deeper layers of facial tissue to achieve more natural and long-lasting results.
In addition to facelifts, we offer several complementary procedures to enhance your overall results:
Fat transfer involves harvesting fat from other areas of your body through gentle liposuction and injecting it into areas of the face that have lost volume. This technique can rejuvenate and fill deflated cheeks, deep nasolabial folds, and thin lips.
Skin resurfacing techniques such as microdermabrasion and AcuPulse™ laser or Renuvion J-Plasma can remove built-up layers of old skin, smoothing ultra-fine lines and improving skin texture for a more youthful appearance.
All of these techniques are customized to meet your desires and specific needs. They aim to improve your appearance by sculpting your face, smoothing wrinkles, removing unwanted and adding to deficient fat, and tightening lax facial skin. Facelift is the means to a long-lasting tightened neck and jowls. In Pittsburgh facelift surgery can usually provide a younger, healthier appearance with the least amount of scarring. If you are interested, inquire at our Pittsburgh office.
During a facelift Pittsburgh plastic surgeons can smooth out deep wrinkles and fine lines on the face to address the most obvious signs of aging.
The procedure enhances the definition of facial contours, especially around the jawline and cheeks, resulting in a more sculpted and balanced appearance.
Restoring your youthful features can make you look healthier and more rested, allowing you to feel confident in your appearance.
By removing excess skin and tightening the underlying tissues, a facelift addresses sagging skin, particularly in the lower face and neck, leading to a firmer, more toned look.
During an initial consultation for a facelift Pittsburgh Center plastic surgeons can determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure based on your medical history, skin condition, and expectations. At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we proudly offer advanced treatments in a safe and comfortable environment. From our state-of-the-art office to our relaxing medical spa, you can rest assured you are in good hands with our team.
The first step is administering anesthesia. We offer advanced local anesthesia with light sedation to reduce anxiety. Those who prefer intravenous conscious sedation or general anesthesia can be treated in an ambulatory surgery center or hospital at request.
Your Pittsburgh facelift surgeon will then create small incisions near the ears and along the hairline. Next, your surgeon will tighten the underlying tissue with a unique Barbed suture pattern or by moving the underlying tissue directly, then remove excess skin and precisely suture close all the incisions under slight tension. Some patients also undergo liposuction to eliminate stubborn fat underneath the chin. A small suction drain exits behind the left ear, and an elastic head wrap is placed. Direct icing and head elevation are required for a week. Your treatment process may differ if you choose a mini-facelift instead of the full procedure.
Typically, patients are cleared for full activity after about four to six weeks. While you may notice a dramatic difference in your appearance soon after surgery, it takes up to six months to see the final results of a facelift. Be patient with your results and continue following your post-op instructions as directed. By the end of your recovery, you could enjoy a more youthful and refreshed appearance.*
Patients can generally expect a full recovery within four to six weeks after surgery, provided that they follow their post-surgical instructions precisely. The final result may take more than six months. We will tell you what to expect during your facelift recovery and provide tips to follow at your pre-surgical appointments. Following these guidelines can minimize your risk of infection and help you achieve satisfying results. “Patients who cannot devote a full four to six weeks to recovery may consider the benefits of a mini facelift, which may shorten recovery timelines.”
Like many other facial cosmetic surgeries, facelifts are considered outpatient procedures, so you will be able to return home the same day. Due to the nature of the procedure and the anesthesia involved, it is imperative that you have a friend or family member drive you home. As the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some soreness, fatigue, and facial tightness. Resting is critical during this time. We also recommend taking pain or anti-nausea medications to minimize any discomfort. Having a loved one stay with you to assist you for the first few days is also beneficial.
The first week of recovery will be the hardest. Commonly patients experience the feeling of tightness in their neck and face, swelling, soreness, bruising, and occasionally continued fatigue. Resting with your head elevated, taking your medications, and applying cold compresses can help during this time. By week two, these side effects generally begin to subside. Approximately seven to ten days after surgery, any sutures will be removed, and our clinicians will monitor the incisions for any signs of infection. As soon as you feel up to it, we encourage light walking to increase blood flow and promote healing. However, it is imperative that you avoid overdoing physical activity, as it could hinder recovery.
Most patients can return to work during week three of their facelift recovery if their jobs do not require strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or bending over. By this time, energy levels will increase, bruising is minimal or easily concealed with makeup, and you may feel more comfortable going out in public. Although normal activity can be resumed, and you may feel well enough to resume exercise and other physical activity, you should not resume your regular exercise routine for at least six weeks.
Advanced Local Anesthesia (ALA) at The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery
The Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery is at the forefront of innovative surgical techniques prioritizing patient comfort and safety. The team of skilled medical professionals has extensive experience in providing procedures under cutting-edge local anesthesia, resulting in faster recovery times and shorter patient downtime. By utilizing local anesthetic techniques combining Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, the team at the Pittsburgh Center can perform procedures such as small-volume liposuction, breast augmentation, limited tummy tucks, gynecomastia surgery, and facelifts with minimal disruption to the patient's daily routine.
This approach has been proven to reduce recovery time and discomfort, allowing patients to return to their daily activities as soon as possible. In addition, Dr. Davila is the only provider in Pittsburgh offering deep plane SMAS Facelifts under enhanced local anesthesia. One of the key advantages of this technique is that it reduces or eliminates the risks associated with general anesthesia, such as prolonged nausea, vomiting, and grogginess. Patients can expect to remain comfortably resting throughout the surgery while communicating with their surgeon throughout the process, ensuring that they are relaxed and at ease at all times.
The Pittsburgh Center's commitment to patient-centered care is comprehensive. After their procedures, patients are provided with detailed aftercare instructions and access to a team of dedicated medical professionals available to answer any questions or concerns they may have during their recovery period. Overall, the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery offers patients a safe, effective, and comfortable surgical experience that prioritizes their well-being and recovery by utilizing advanced local anesthesia (ALA) and providing exceptional aftercare, Drs. Armando Davila and David Turer and their team are able to help patients achieve their desired results with minimal disruption to their daily lives.
The Pittsburgh Center plastic surgeons have honed their unique surgical techniques for many years. With a combined 45 years of experience, they can carefully tailor your facelift to suit your specific needs.
In order to experience a quick and comfortable recovery, it is extremely important to:
Breaking down the Cost of Treatment. The final cost of your facelift will depend on several factors, including the type of technique you choose and the extent of the results you want to experience.
At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, facelifts begin at around $8,500 to $11,000. Mini-facelift or neck lifts can reduce the costs as low as $5,000, or more advanced extended facelifts that involve the forehead or brows are, on average, $13,000. Additional procedures such as fat grafting, skin resurfacing, or other combinations have additional costs. Patients are also responsible for operating room and anesthetic costs associated with where they choose to have their surgery, which can be higher at different Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASC) or Hospitals. Health insurance rarely covers the price of a cosmetic procedure like a facelift. However, the Pittsburgh Center partners with CareCredit® and Alpheon® for financing options that offer flexible payment plans.
Alternatives to a Facelift
At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, we offer a wide range of non-surgical treatments which can reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles. Injectable treatments, such as BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers, can both rejuvenate your appearance. In addition, treatments such as laser skin resurfacing can address fine lines and other blemishes without removing any skin. However, a facelift is the only truly effective option if you have sagging skin. This procedure can remove excess tissue and tighten muscles for dramatic yet natural-looking results.*
Facial Rejuvenation
Facial rejuvenation addresses aging that occurs as patients age. The Pittsburgh Center provides techniques, including facelifts, removal of excess skin, and fat injections. These treatments can help patients meet their goals and achieve a rejuvenated look.*
Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and amenities to ensure your comfort and privacy during your visit. We are located in the heart of Pittsburgh and serve patients from all over the world. When you are ready to take the next step, contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Davila or Dr. Turer. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals of looking and feeling your best.