Facelift Surgery in Sacramento

Putting Your Best Face Forward

Perhaps the most reliable means of achieving a more youthful appearance, facelifts are one of the most coveted facial procedures in plastic surgery. Both male and female patients of Craig E. Berris, M.D. reveal that in addition to exceptionally natural-looking results, their self confidence is lifted dramatically by the rejuvenating procedure.

Dr. Berris encourages anyone considering facelift surgery in the Sacramento area to explore the topic. He wants his patients to have an idea of what this transformation will involve, even before the initial consult. At the Center for Cosmetic Eyelid and Laser Surgery, communication and understanding are pillars of the practice, solidifying our place as a top plastic surgery facility.

• The Facelift Consultation
• In the Operating Room
• Facing the Recovery Facts

The Facelift Consultation

How do you know if facelift surgery is right for you? Which technique would work best to meet your needs? What is the recovery process like? Share your aesthetic vision with Dr. Berris, and all of your questions will be answered. The veteran surgeon believes the consultation process is essential to a happy outcome.

During a preliminary consultation, Dr. Berris will listen to your hopes and concerns. He will work towards the best cosmetic solution by carefully analyzing and documenting your facial structure and skin composition. Most importantly, he will review your medical history, all with the purpose of providing you with the most thorough care in the field. Together, you will set attainable goals and realistic expectations!

With your specific needs and desires in mind, Dr. Berris will strive to deliver the aesthetic results laid out in your uniquely tailored plan.

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In the Operating Room

While many different techniques exist, facelift surgery usually begins with an incision above the hairline or along the naturally hidden contours near the ear, such as the point where the face and ear meet. Dr. Berris' aim here is to ensure that any scarring will be both discreet and minimal.

Next, the surgeon separates the facial tissue from the underlying tissue, allowing for the removal of any unwanted fat or excess skin. This step, combined with the tightening and repositioning of facial muscles, ultimately reduces sagging and smoothes away unwanted lines in the face. Finally, the incision is closed. You are now on the path to recovery!

Your cosmetic goals and age will help determine the degree of invasiveness during surgery. For example, patients in their thirties and forties often require less adjustment to fight signs of aging; older patients may require greater adjustment, an indicator the surgery will be more invasive.

All of these factors affect how long it takes to complete facelift surgery, which generally takes two to four hours at our outpatient surgery center in Sacramento.

For your comfort, either local or general anesthesia can be administered. Local anesthesia allows you to remain relatively alert during the procedure, and general anesthesia is necessary for a more invasive facelift surgery.

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Facing the Recovery Facts

Before you choose to undergo a facelift, the recovery process should be truly taken into account. How long will you need to heal? Which activities will be limited? These are only some of the questions Dr. Berris will go over with you in detail.

After facelift surgery, loose bandages will be worn on the head and face to control swelling and bruising. A tube may be inserted behind the ear to drain blood and fluid, preventing buildup. Usually, pain medication is prescribed to help you feel as comfortable as possible during your healing.

Allow about two weeks for postoperative swelling, numbness, and skin discoloration to diminish. Initially, the head should be kept totally dry, elevated, and immobile, which means bathing will be temporarily prohibited. Stitches are removed in about five days, and your results will begin to reveal themselves soon after.

Healing can take between seven days and several weeks. Of course, this depends on the invasiveness of your procedure. Most patients are able to return to their normal work schedules in ten days to two weeks. (Smaller scope procedures cut this time frame down to one or two days.)

As far as exercise is concerned, Dr. Berris recommends avoiding intense workouts, heavy cleaning, and sexual activity for at least two weeks. Other activities, such as blow-drying hair and consuming alcohol, may need to stop for much longer.

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Contact the Center for Cosmetic Eyelid and Laser Surgery in Sacramento

A facelift can greatly improve your appearance and enhance your overall sense of self. The surgery is able to eliminate lines and wrinkles and tighten sagging skin, making you look much younger and more energetic. You will be well taken care of under the care of cosmetic surgeon Craig E. Berris, M.D. To learn more about facelift surgery, contact our Sacramento facial cosmetic surgery center today.

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