Face Lifting or Rhytidectomy has been popular since the late 1800's. Rhytidectomy is designed to improve the appearance of the lower two thirds of the face and the neck area by tightening skin, which has lost its elasticity with age, fat loss and sun damage. In addition, the modern facelift tightens the foundation of the face called the SMAS, which represents the second layer of the face that envelops the muscles of facial expression. In some face/neck lifts, the platysma muscle, the muscle which contributes to the appearance of the "turkey gobbler" neck is also tightened through a small incision hidden in the crease under the chin. And finally, face / neck lifts are frequently combined with facial liposuction in some individuals to rid them of unattractive localized fat deposits or with forehead lifts and cosmetic eyelid surgery if upper facial aging is significant.

Face / Neck Lifts often produce results that make the individual look well rested, as well as, five to seven years younger than their contemporaries. The procedure usually causes minimal discomfort, swelling and bruising, with a return to work or social activities in one to two weeks. Strenuous exercise, however, must be avoided for three weeks postop. A second face / neck may be performed in five to seven years if desired and is usually even more long lasting. Mini lift patient usually require 3-4 days to resume normal activity.

Face \ Neck Lifts are usually performed under IV or intravenous sedation and local anesthesia, and the incisions are hidden in the hair and/or in natural creases around the ears making detection of the incisions very difficult if not impossible, especially to the untrained observer. Individuals usually request face / neck lifts in their forties or fifties, but it is quite common between the ages of 35 - 65.