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New York Face Lift (Rhytidectomy) and Neck Lift

BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS

Facelift in NYC

What is a Facelift?


A facelift, or Rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the face by tightening facial muscles, smoothing wrinkles and removing excess fat. A facelift takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete and is often combined with a neck lift for improvements under the chin to achieve a harmonious look. Facelift Surgery: After the Procedure


As you wake up from general anesthesia after a face lift, you can expect to feel as you would being woken up from a deep sleep. Some patients experience slight chills, nausea and grogginess, but this passes within an hour or so. Swelling, soreness and bruising are normal after any surgical procedure, including a facelift. However, if these symptoms become significantly worse, it is important to contact Dr. Levine. While some patients feel that they do not need pain medication after the procedure, it may be prescribed to you to eliminate any discomfort. For best results, it is important to rest, avoid stress and keep moderately active. The results will be gradual as the swelling subsides and your improved features settle in. You will start seeing results about 5-7 days after your surgery, however, full results will appear in the months after.
Facelift Surgery: Pre– and Post–OP Instructions


Shortly before and after the face lift procedure, it is crucial to follow the instructions set by your physician. Depending on your health, other directions may be given to you by Dr. Levine or your primary care physician. After the Surgery:


Avoid extreme, strenuous physical activity for approximately 3 weeks or until otherwise instructed. Light exercise is permitted sooner.

Use sunblock after the surgery and avoid tanning beds.

Do not remove your bandages until you are directed to, or we remove them during a follow-up visit.

Remember, swelling and bruising of the face is normal and typically subsides within 7-10 days. However, each patient’s recovery time is different. If you are concerned about prolonged swelling or bruising, do not hesitate to contact us.

Follow instructions closely on which medications you are able to take and their dosage.

Neck Lift in NYC

Preparing for a Facelift or Neck Lift in NYC


The first step to a facelift procedure is to consult a physician. Dr. Levine, a facelift expert in NYC, is one of the few surgeons that is double board-certified through the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, giving her a unique knowledge of the face and its underlying structures. During your consultation, Dr. Levine will discuss your goals and determine the best methods of achieving results that look natural. Prepare for Facelift Surgery:


• Avoid blood thinners such as ibuprofen (Advil, Aleve, etc.), aspirin, garlic, ginger and others. If you are taking prescription medications, bring them to your initial consultation for review and instructions. • Do not drink or eat anything at least 8-hours before your procedure, including water. • Abstain from prolonged exposure to the sun 14 days prior to your surgery. • Abstain from smoking 14 days before and after the procedure. • Ensure that you have a trusted individual to escort you from the hospital to your home. You will not be allowed to leave on your own. Out of Town Patients:


Dr. Levine welcomes facelift patients who reside outside of New York City. If your home is not within a short distance or is outside of New York, we can help you make arrangements for the recovery time after your facelift surgery, during which you should not be traveling for an extended period of time or by plane. To make arrangements, please call us at 212-517-9400. NYC Facelift Surgery: The Procedure


Dr. Levine understands that one of the major concerns for patients is pain. The facelift surgery is performed under general or twilight anesthesia, eliminating any pain during the procedure. Medication may be prescribed after the procedure as well, to reduce any discomfort. During your facelift, incisions are made at the hairline and continue in front of and behind the ear and may extend to the lower scalp. The extent of the incisions varies depending on the individual’s features and the results to be achieved. The chin and the neck are also addressed to achieve a balanced look, and liposuction may be used to remove excess fat under the neck. Muscles and skin are then lifted and tightened, and incisions are closed with sutures, which are well-hidden within the natural creases of your face. Sutures are removed gradually from 5 to 9 days after the surgery, depending on the progress of your healing and your facelift doctor’s opinion. The face is bandaged for approximately 24-hours, and most patients experience only mild discomfort, which can be alleviated with the prescribed medication. Most patients return to their daily routines 10-14 days after the procedure, once substantial swelling subsides. Day of the Surgery:


• Do not eat or drink anything, including water. • Do not wear contact lenses; you may wear your glasses. • Avoid wearing shirts or dresses that must be pulled over your head. Instead, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that fastens in the back or the front. Other Options:


When you come in for your consultation, NYC surgeon, Dr. Jennifer Levine, will go over all your options with you to help guide you in making a decision. For patients not quite ready for a face or neck lift, Dr. Levine might offer a non-surgical facelift, otherwise known as a liquid facelift. This noninvasive procedure is done at our NYC office using a combination of filler products, like Juvederm, Voluma and Restylane, or Botox to lift certain areas of the face and bring back a more youthful contour. Patients can see the results of the fillers immediately while Botox can take up two weeks to see the final result.