When many people hear the word “facelift”, they think of a major surgical procedure that is typically performed on women age 50 or older. However, the facelift comes in many forms, and facelift procedures can benefit both men and women of a wide age range. Limited incision lower facelift, for example, is often more appropriate for younger patients, and there are many options available to those seeking facial rejuvenation. But what is a limited incision lower facelift, and what is the ideal age to undergo this type of procedure?
What is a Limited Incision Lower Facelift?
Often known as a mini facelift, the limited incision lower facelift is a less intensive version of the classic comprehensive anti-aging surgery. While there are many types of mini lifts, focusing on various areas of the face, the limited incision lower facelift targets the area beneath the cheeks, tightening the facial musculature and skin. Much less invasive than a full facelift, this procedure can be performed in an office setting, under local anesthesia and oral sedation. The recovery period is similarly mild, with many patients up and ready to be social in just one to two days. Other patients choose to take it easy for a few more days, until the sutures are removed about a week following surgery. Benefits of a limited incision facelift include a tighter, more youthful appearance to the lower face.
The Best Age
There is no one best age to have a limited incision lower facelift. The average patient is in their forties or early fifties, but this is by no means the only age range in which the procedure is appropriate. There are many factors that go into individual candidacy and a successful limited incision facelift, which should be discussed during the initial consultation. It is true, however, that the procedure is better for younger patients with more subtle signs of aging, as the surgery is generally more successful in these patients in creating the desired outcome.
Rate of Aging
An individual’s unique rate of aging is probably the most important factor in determining the right age for a limited incision lower facelift. Some of the factors that go into this process include:
Genetics
Some people just get lucky and have the genetics that make them seem almost ageless. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for most people, and where someone falls on the genetic aging spectrum can greatly dictate how quickly they age, despite their best efforts to stay looking young.
Lifestyle
Fortunately, there are ways people can help slow down aging by implementing good lifestyle choices. Simple changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, and diligent skincare can make a big difference in how quickly aging progresses, slowing down the rate of aging. Unhealthy habits, on the other hand, like smoking, drug use, and frequent drinking, can have the opposite effect.
Climate
Sun damage is one of the leading culprits when it comes to accelerated aging. Using sunscreen and avoiding the sun when possible is generally accepted as the best way to prevent premature aging from the sun’s UV rays, but it can be a big challenge to maintain sun protection for people living in hot climates. Unfortunately, significant damage can occur for people living in sunny areas who do not take strict precautions.
Your Goals and Expectations
A limited incision facelift can accomplish a lot, but if you are considering the procedure, you need to be aware of its limitations and set realistic goals for your results. If you need more rejuvenation than a limited facelift can offer, you may need to consider a full procedure. Only a qualified plastic surgeon can give you custom advice on choosing the procedure that is right for you, and it is important to have reasonable expectations for your results, no matter what procedure you decide on.
Discuss Your Options
Ready to get personalized advice? It’s time to start researching facial plastic surgeons to help you get the results you’re looking for. You should only meet with board certified facial surgery experts with extensive experience in facelift techniques to help you customize your surgery.
If you would like to speak with an expert in the Austin area, come to Buckingham Center and meet with acclaimed facial plastic surgeon Dr. Edward Buckingham. Dr. Buckingham is an experienced, compassionate surgeon with a focus on natural-looking results and minimally invasive procedures. Call Buckingham Center at 512.401.2500 today to schedule your consultation.
