Facelift Surgery

A facelift or rhytidectomy is a procedure that gives a more youthful appearance to the face; it is not meant to change the personal characteristics of the person since the goal of this surgery is to achieve a ‘natural look’. During the operation, the underlying muscles of the face are tightened, the excess of fat accumulated over the years is removed and the loose skin is gently pulled back. The procedure can be performed along with an eyelid surgery/lift.

Length of procedure:  4 hrs Anesthesia:  Local anesthesia and sedation or general Hospital staying:  6 to 8 hrs Postoperative stay in Costa Rica:  10 to 14 days.

Folds and wrinkles between the mouth and nose, loose skin and extra fat (jowls) make the face look square instead of oval, like it does during youth. Some of the skin and muscle in the neck can sag and sometimes, the loose muscle can produce a deformity of two bands in the anterior neck (also known as the “turkey gobbler” deformity).

Facelift corrects all of these aging signs in a natural looking way. The incisions are closed along natural skin lines and creases, so scars are barely noticeable and almost undetectable. Most of the scars are located in the hairline or behind the ears. The average results of a facelift last 5 to 10 years, depending of the patient’s conditions.

This surgery can take from 2 to 3 hours to be performed, longer if you are combining it with another cosmetic treatment. General anaesthesia is commonly used, but it can also be performed using local anaesthesia. You can discuss these details with Doctor Chavarria prior to the operation.

Generally, incisions are initially made just a little above the hairline, and follow a natural line up to just in front of the ear, continuing down the ear lob to the lower scalp. They are usually hidden in the natural contour of your ear and post-surgery, they can be easily concealed with makeup and by your hair. In the case of work being necessary on the neck, small incisions can be made under the chin.

Once this part of the procedure is completed, Dr. Chavarria proceeds to separate the skin from the fat and muscle below. To perk up the general outlines of the face and neck, fat can be suctioned or trimmed. The doctor then continues on to tighten the membrane and muscle, pulling the skin back and removing the excess. Once this is done, incisions are closed with stitches, which also protect the layers of tissue. To help minimize any swelling and bruising, your head may be loosely wrapped up in bandages.

After this plastic surgery, Dr. Chavarria recommends a recovery period of at least 8 days that you will have to spend in Costa Rica. The time you spend in the country can be expanded to your needs especially if you wish to go on a little vacation before having your operation performed and take the opportunity to see some of our natural wonders.

You need to keep in mind that the price of a facelift procedure varies from patient to patient thus, an initial consultation with Dr. Chavarría is essential before deciding if you will benefit from this plastic surgery.

Click here to contact us