Aging of the face occurs when certain qualities of the skin and underlying structures change, such as a decrease in elasticity and a loss of facial volume. This causes the skin on the face and neck to both sag and loosen- which creates deeper facial lines and a wavy jawline. These changes become more evident as we get older, but can be hastened by certain environmental influences such as heavy sun exposure, excessive weight loss, or smoking habits.
The goals of facelift surgery for Dr. Attenello are to improve the signs of aging and restore both a more youthful, yet natural, appearance. Dr. Attenello achieves this by focusing on the muscular layer (or SMAS layer). This layer underneath the skin descends as well with age and it is paramount to address this in facelift surgery to provide the longest lasting and most definitive facelift results. By repositioning the SMAS layer, Dr. Attenello can lift the sagging jowls, soften the deepening folds between the nose and mouth (the nasolabial fold) as well as the deepening folds around the corner of the mouth (the marionette lines). This creates a smoother jawline and a more rejuvenated neck and profile. By addressing the SMAS layer, minimal tension is placed on the skin layer which avoids the ‘wind swept’ appearance or any other unnatural stigmata of facelift surgery.
It is important to note that the facelift procedure only addresses the sagging and loose skin and muscle, but will not improve the volume loss or the changes on the skin surface that occurs with time and sun exposure. These may be recommended in conjunction with the facelift surgery to provide the most optimal results.
There are a variety of facial rejuvenation procedures available that focus on addressing specific aesthetic issues. Some places may offer a mini-facelift which is a less invasive and quicker procedure but does not offer the same comprehensive and long-lasting results as a normal facelift.
There are also options like a mid-facelift and lower facelift that focus on more specific areas. Some places offer a non-surgical facelift using dermal fillers to restore lost volume known as a “liquid facelift. this option only offers mild improvement and temporary results.
As each patient’s anatomy is exquisitely different, so are the small nuances during their surgery; and as such, no two surgeries are ever completely identical as Dr. Attenello tailors her surgical plan to fit each of her patient’s unique facial features.
During the procedure, all incisions are created with the goal of being hidden and discreet – usually in your natural skin creases, behind your ear, and around your hairline. Judicious liposuction underneath the chin and along the jowls and jawline is performed to provide the best contour possible. The vertical bands that run down each patient’s necks are also addressed at this time. Dr. Attenello will then tighten the muscle layer underneath your skin that is contributing to the sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and jowls. Next, the skin is then carefully re-draped and trimmed with meticulous attention to the suturing to provide the most discrete scars possible.
If you sagging, wrinkles and folds are ruining the beauty of your face, contact our office in Beverly Hills today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Attenello for your facelift.
Dr. Attenello can address any questions you. may have regarding facelift surgery and facial rejuvenation procedures and can use her skill and experience to provide you with excellent care and results.