A Facelift (Rhytidectomy) rejuvenates the face by repositioning two distinct layers of the face: the skin in its ideal direction after elevating and repositioning the Submuscular Aponeurotic Fascial Plane in an upward and posterior direction.
Common Facelift Types
Dr. Greco repositions two distinct layers of the face: the deeper SMAS layer is elevated and lifted upward and back, then the skin is re-draped in its ideal direction. Treating both layers improves the jowls, jawline and nasolabial folds and restores a youthful neck, without a pulled look.
A shorter-scar facelift, sometimes called an “S Lift,” for patients with earlier signs of aging such as mild jowling along the jawline. Generally, the younger the patient, the less extensive the technique needed.
Tightens loose skin and banding along the neck.
Neck lift refers to improving the age lines of your neck, sagginess, and/or a “turkey neck” appearance. The neck lift may be performed alone or in conjunction with a face lift when the jowls and face require treatment. Your neck adds poise to your face and is a focal point for first impressions.
To achieve overall facial harmony, a facelift can be combined with:
The ideal candidate for a facelift is usually in the age range of forties to seventies with good supporting bone structure and supple skin. We recommend that you explore all cosmetic surgery facial options and set reasonable expectations for the outcome of your face lift procedure. We are often asked “How long does a face lift last?” They actually last forever – you will always look younger than you would have if you did not have one performed.
Longevity & Maintenance
Your face will continue to age naturally, but the benefit of a facelift lasts: you will always look younger than you would have if you had not had the procedure.
Non-surgical treatments such as Botox and Juvederm can help maintain and extend your results over the years, refreshing fine lines and lost volume with little to no downtime.
Skin Quality & Care
Because surgery repositions soft tissue without altering skin texture, pair the procedure with medical-grade skincare or non-surgical treatments for comprehensive results.
Your consultation in our office will help set reasonable expectations for the outcome of the face lift procedure. It is important to inform your surgeon if you smoke or are taking any prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins or supplements. You should especially inform your doctor if you are taking aspirin or other drugs that affect blood clotting. Bring a picture of yourself and identify the traits that are important to improve through the procedure. Our surgeons will review your medical history to accommodate for any medical conditions requiring attention before, during or after the procedure. These medical conditions may include, but not be limited to: uncontrolled high blood pressure, blood clotting problems or the tendency to form excessive scars. You may be required to cease certain medications and/or take other medications prior to and after the facelift surgery procedure. Many patients comment on how they feel renewed and have a fresh, more youthful look following recovery from a face lift procedure.
Face lift procedures are to some degree an art and are highly individualized. The procedure is performed at our state-of-the-art outpatient Savannah plastic surgery center – The Plastic Surgery Center. Most of our patients spend the night in our overnight facility. The procedure requires a few hours and is usually performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation medication. This allows you to breathe for yourself throughout the procedure and is safer than having it performed under general anesthesia.
The incisions for a standard facelift are dependent on the hairline of the individual and the skin deformity that we are treating. Our standard procedure includes an incision in front of the ear in an inconspicuous location of the face. It then extends behind the ear and into the posterior scalp. If your neck is being treated, an incision may be made under the chin. Your surgeon will elevate the skin of the face and neck from the underlying fascia and muscle so that the excess fat can be trimmed or suctioned. The muscles are then repositioned and the lax fascia tightened. The loose skin is then re-draped and the excess is then trimmed, lifted back and sutured into place. Many patients may have their correction with a shorter scar or an “S Lift.” Stitches are used in front and behind the ear, and usually the hair bearing scalp is held together with surgical metal clips.
You will need someone to drive you home following the procedure and may require assistance with daily living activities for a few days thereafter. The sutures are usually removed in the pre-auricular area on day four or five and the metal clips are usually removed within seven to 14 days after the procedure. You will be asked not to bend over and will need to refrain from strenuous activity for approximately two weeks after surgery. Most individuals can return to work with makeup at 10 days and can return to a normal social calendar at 14 days. You will be advised to refrain from saunas and hot tubs for several months.
Complications may occur with any medical procedure, and include: hematoma (a blood clot), infection and an adverse reaction to anesthesia. Yet, complications can usually be managed by your surgeon. In addition, you may feel some temporary numbness after the procedure. Poor skin healing may affect some individuals, especially smokers. Scars will usually be hidden within the hair and along natural skin creases. Complication risks are reduced by following the pre- and post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon.
Facial Rejuvenation
“It was just an instant change!”
Vickie
I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Greco and his team! Every encounter I had was so easy and everything went so well. I could not be more pleased with the results! I definitely recommend Dr. Greco and his staff.
My experience was far beyond what I was expecting! I don’t know how to describe it; I am just really amazed! I am so thankful I chose Dr. Greco to do my surgery. His professionalism and expertise is amazing!
I love my results. Dr Greco came highly recommended by a family who has seen him for years. I can see why they love him so much. I would come back in a minute if I needed another procedure because the results are so natural.
The experience of a facelift from the beginning, to the procedure, to the post-op and then to the follow-up was fantastic. All my questions were answered and Dr. Greco and the staff seemed to always be so caring and showed concern!
I continue to be amazed at the change in my appearance. I no longer look (or feel) tired. My self-esteem and my face were both lifted. Dr. Greco and his staff were fabulous. I have definitely been treated in five-star fashion.
I had always wanted to change my nose my whole life. I did lots of research and decided on GA Institute for Plastic Surgery. Dr. Greco was very professional and was amazing. My downtime was minimal. I’m very happy.
I had a great experience with Dr. Greco for the rhinoplasty and partial turbinectomy procedure! Dramatically improved the appearance and function of my nose. The nurses and patient care coordinator are extremely helpful and have excellent communication.
I had such a positive and smooth experience with a fairly invasive set of procedures. Dr Greco was so confident and knowledgeable I wasn’t even nervous, I was more excited. The end result is exactly what I wanted and exactly what he told me to expect. No one knows (by just looking at me) did anything, just that I look more youthful. My result is very natural and I would do it all over again. The staff is incredible and educated me along the way on how to maintain my beautiful results. I had a facelift, brow lift and fat grafting to help fill deep lines and voids in my face.
I had a great experience with Dr. Greco and his staff. Would come back for more work if needed, very happy overall with the surgery I had done and highly recommend this practice to anyone who wants surgery.
My Rhinoplasty with Dr. Greco was an incredibly positive experience, from the initial consultation, he took the time to understand my vision for my nose and explained the procedure in detail. He was incredibly knowledgeable and made me feel completely at ease. The results are even better than I hoped for, and I feel so much more confident now. It’s truly been a life changing experience, and I’m so grateful to Dr. Greco and his wonderful staff. The staff were also so exceptional, so kind & very professional they made the whole process easier. Don’t let me forget to mention the positive atmosphere and supportive environment. Thank you so much Dr. Greco and your staff!!!
Richard J Greco, MD is a Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon and the Co-Founder and CEO of The Georgia Institute For Plastic Surgery in Savannah, Georgia. He is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Ursinus College and a Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Thomas Jefferson Medical College with specialized training in Aesthetic Surgery. He taught at the University of Pittsburgh and brings over 35 years of distinguished clinical experience to his patients.
Recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, a 15 year “Best of Savannah” Plastic Surgeon, and Past Vice President/Treasurer of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS).
Dr. Greco combines surgical precision with artistic vision to obtain safe, natural and transformative results.
