Natural and Beautiful: The Science of a Facelift

What to Know About Facelifts
The surgical facelift is not a new procedure, with some speculation that the surgery dates back as far as the beginning of the 20th century. However, techniques for facelifts have evolved considerably, giving patients results that are much more natural and long-lasting. If you are considering a facelift, it is important for you to understand how the procedure works today so that you can go into your surgery with the proper expectations.

Expanding the Procedure
In the 1960s and into the 1970s, facelifts were expanded to include areas of the neck as well as the face (cheek/jawline). This was a positive step since the neck often showed signs of aging as quickly as or even faster than the face did. By tightening up only the skin in the neck and lower face, the results achieved were much more dramatic. However, the procedure primarily addressed skin laxity and did little or nothing to improve the signs of aging that occurred underneath the skin’s surface. Also, pulling the skin tight placed excess tension on the closure resulting in very noticeable scars. Also, in an attempt to resolve the jowls and neck bands, overtightening of just the skin also gave way to a “windswept” overcorrected look.

Introducing SMAS
In the 1970s, surgical facelifts began to include the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS). This layer of muscle directly under the skin was tightened along with the skin to create a more natural appearance. This approach which is now over four decades old and has withstood the test of time, giving long-lasting and safe results, with minimal downtime of 10-12 days. When a surgeon references a “Facelift” to you, he is referring to this procedure which addresses the jawline and neckline.

Facelifts Today
Today, “Facelifts” have expanded and become a much more precise science, as the face is divided into aesthetic “units” to create a complete and uniform look. Units include the brows, forehead, temples, upper and lower eyelids, mid-face, lower face, and neck. Each unit receives special attention in the restructuring of the underlying muscle, and/or the removal or firming of the skin to ensure the entire appearance is lifted and refreshed.
About Dr. Robinson
Dr. Burke Robinson is considered an expert in facelift surgery in the Atlanta area. His state-of-the-art techniques ensure the most natural results, whether you are looking for a full face transformation or a less invasive procedure to effectively address the earliest signs of aging. Because each person’s facial anatomy is unique, Dr. Robinson is able to customize the procedure to the specific needs and aesthetic outcome of each of his patients.

Is a Facelift Right for You?
Facelifts are typically recommended for patients that have significant signs of aging they would like to erase, including fine lines, deeper facial creases, skin hollowing and facial laxity. Some patients with early signs of aging may also benefit from a less invasive procedure known as “mini” lift, or perhaps just injectables in the office.. In some cases, a facelift might be combined with other procedures to ensure the best possible results. For example, some patients may want to undergo a brow lift in combination with a facelift to provide a complete effect. Others may opt for injectable treatments after their surgery to further enhance their youthful results, or may only require injectable treatments without any surgery. It is always customized to what you will truly benefit from.

If you are considering a facelift, choose a top surgeon in the field to ensure the safest and best possible results. Dr. Robinson specializes in facial plastic surgery procedures, so much of his practice has been devoted to the art of perfecting facelifts. To learn more or schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Robinson, contact Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery today at 770-667-3090.