Jorge A. Perez, M.D., F.A.C.S.

The options to freshen our appearance seem endless and often confusing. Lasers, peels, fillers and other “non-surgical” choices often compete with traditional facelift procedures. However, patients often spend thousands of dollars and months of treatments, only to be disappointed to learn that minimally invasive means minimal results. Meanwhile, a “real’ facelift, in the hands of an experienced plastic surgeon, can produce dramatic, long-lasting results with little downtime.

The last decade has seen an explosion of fillers used to treat facial wrinkles. In addition, it seems every day we hear another slick “minimally invasive” lift procedure advertised that promises dramatic results. It is more important now than ever for patients to seek honest, competent advice from multiple practitioners versed in the whole array of treatment options. Just like an artist chooses the right colors for his canvas, the plastic surgeon must guide the patient to choose the right treatment for the desired effect.

I like to evaluate the facial rejuvenation patient by dividing the face into thirds. We start at the top by examining the forehead and eyebrows. I think browlift is terribly over-prescribed and we often advise patients against this surgical procedure. Botox is often sufficient here for most patients.

The middle third of the face are the eyelids. The procedure of choice to correct tired eyelids is the eyelid tuck or blepharoplasty. It is a commonly performed surgery with a very high degree of patient satisfaction, and one of my personal favorites to perform. It is the most commonly performed aging procedure for men. The procedure takes 45 minutes and patients soon enjoy a refreshed and less tired look.

The lower third of the face includes the area of the cheeks, jawline and neck. Although highly advertised under many catchy terms, surgical facelift procedures generally fall into two categories, mini and full. A mini-facelift is best suited for patients in their 40’s or younger who just want to freshen the cheek and jawline. The advantage is that it is quick procedure with a rapid recovery. My preference for isolated mild neck fullness is a less invasive, unique ultrasonic liposuction tightening procedure.

The typical patient for traditional face and necklift is in his/her late 40’s and older with laxity of the jawline and neck, often with turkey-like banding. The procedure takes about 2 hours and, although results vary, most patients return to non-exercise, normal activity within a few days.

Combined with eyelid surgery, the facelift procedure often produces dramatic, long-lasting results and can reduce the aging appearance by decades. As with all procedures, an honest consultation with a reputable and experienced physician is the best place to customize an individual treatment plan.

About Dr. Perez

Dr. Perez has been selected among Castle Connolly/U.S. News and World Report’s America’s Top Doctors. He has lectured internationally on face and neck rejuvenation surgery and has been featured as a plastic surgery expert for major media outlets. Dr. Perez was featured as the facelift keynote speaker at the Brussels Belgium Science and Art of Facial Makeover Congress for facial plastic surgeons. Surgery is performed at the Imperial Point Surgery Center with physician anesthesiologists. A limited number of personalized consultations with Dr. Perez are available by appointment only. To learn more about any of these procedures visit PerezPlasticSurgery.com or call (954) 351-2200