Facelift Questions

Q - What is a facelift?
The facelift, technically known as rhytidectomy, is a plastic surgery procedure able to restore a more youthful facial appearance by removing excess fat deposits in the face and neck and tightening loose skin. The surgery may be performed on its own or it may be combined with other procedures like an eyelid lift or brow lift.

Q - Is a facelift right for me?
If you are healthy, have a good underlying bony structure, and are looking to improve the appearance of loose facial skin, jowls and extra fat deposits, then a facelift may be right for you. Tobacco and nicotine containing products cannot be used for several weeks before and after a facelift.

Q - What does a consultation for a facelift entail?
During a consultation for a facelift, Dr. Naderi will examine your face, including the skin and underlying bone, take a thorough medical history, and discuss your goals. All aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - Where is the facelift surgery performed?
Dr. Naderi performs facelifts at INOVA system hospitals including Fair Oaks Hospital, Loudoun Hospital, Fairfax Hospital, and Mt. Vernon Hospital as well as the Countryside Ambulatory Surgery Center.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for the facelift?
General anesthesia or MAC (monitored anesthesia care) may be used for the facelift.

Q - How is the facelift performed?
For the facelift, hidden incisions are made inside of the hairline and inside of the ear for women or in front of the ear for men. Excess fat and skin are then removed, the muscles are altered, the skin is tightened and the incisions are then closed.

Q - How long does the facelift take to perform?
The facelift takes about two to three hours to perform.

Q - Where are the incisions made for the facelift?
The incisions made for a facelift are hidden ones that are concealed inside of the hairline and inside of the ear for women or in front of the ear for men.

Q - Does the facelift leave scars?
The incisions made for the facelift do leave scars though they are well-concealed behind the hairline and inside of the ear for women or in front of the ear for men.

Q - Does the facelift involve much pain?
Patients may experience some discomfort after the facelift, though medication can help to control this.

Q - What is the recovery like after a facelift?
Recovery after a facelift takes about ten days. Patients should expect some swelling and bruising. Bruising will fade within two to three weeks, and patients can help to reduce swelling by keeping the head elevated for the first few days. Bandages applied after surgery are usually removed within a few days.

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing a facelift?
Patients can return to work in about ten days after the facelift.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my facelift?
Patients will need to wait at least three weeks after the facelift before partaking in strenuous activities or exercise.

Q - When will my stitches be removed after my facelift?
The stitches are removed in about one week after the facelift.

Q - What are the risks or complications associated with the facelift?
All surgery carries potential risks. Those associated with the facelift include bleeding and fluid collection (1-3%).
 
Q - Is the facelift covered by insurance?
The facelift is typically not covered by insurance as it is usually considered cosmetic in nature.

Q - Can I finance my facelift?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.

Dr. Naderi's office in Herndon, VA is conveniently located near the following: