Myeloplasty or Facelift Surgery

Degeneration of skin cells with aging, results in loosening of the skin of the face and neck. Facelift, also known as myeloplasty or rhytidectomy, involves surgical procedures that tighten and remove drooping skin. This surgical tightening of the facial muscles improves the tone of the skin. These procedures also involve the removal and repositioning of the excessive fat present beneath the skin.

Face lift is more commonly performed in the age group between 40-65 years, but people in the higher or lower age group can also opt for it. The results of a facelift usually last for 5-12 years.

The objective of face lift surgery is as follows:

• Reduces the signs of ageing
• Improves the contours of the face and neck
• Makes the skin younger and smoother
• May be combined with other cosmetic surgical procedures such as brow lift, eyelid surgery or skin reconstruction
• May be undertaken along with non-surgical treatments such as chemical skin peel, dermabrasion or skin resurfacing

Face lift surgery does not involve the alteration of the bone structure of the face.

Procedure

Face lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia. The type of facelift surgery depends upon the age, type of skin (dry, thick etc.), condition and requirement of the individual.

Depending upon the general health of the individual and the required extent of the procedure, facelift surgery can be performed with a short stay in the hospital. In some cases, a small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin for the drainage of excessive fluid.

Post-operative care

The basic post-operative instructions are as follows:

• One can have a light meal and can drink fluids 2-3 hours after the surgery
• Elevate the head while sleeping to reduce swelling
• Take the prescribed medications for pain and swelling
• Take rest for a few weeks as recommended
• Avoid lifting heavy objects, strenuous exercise, swimming and strenuous sports

Risks and complications

Face lift surgery is generally a safe procedure. Smokers are at increased risk of complications. The associated risks and complications with face lift surgery are as follows:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Allergic reactions
• Formation of large blood clots or haematoma
• Pain and numbness
• Bruising and swelling
• Scar formation
• Hair loss around the scar
• Loss of skin
• Deformity of the earlobe
• Damage to the facial nerves

Revision surgery may be recommended for correcting the complications.