For most of us, age brings wisdom and an overall increased satisfaction with life, but you may reach a point where your inner peace is at odds with your outward appearance. If that’s the case for you, you may be weighing the possibility of facelift surgery to help restore your appearance and make you look as young and vibrant as you feel. 

As a top facelift surgeon in Denver and Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Dr. Jeffrey Schmidt often consults with patients who are thinking about undergoing a facelift procedure, but who are still uncertain whether this option is best for them. Here are answers to some of the top concerns about facelift surgery to help you become a more informed patient.

Am I the Right Age for Facelift Surgery?

Aging affects all of us differently, thanks to genetic differences and lifestyle choices. Because of these differences, the ideal age range to get a facelift varies widely among patients. For example, if you have been diligent about applying sunscreen and moisturizer, never smoked, and are careful to eat a balanced diet, you may be able to delay a facelift several years longer than someone who is the same age as you, but did not take those same precautions to preserve their skin. 

In general, some concerns that might indicate your readiness for a facelift include:

• Sagging skin in the mid-face, jawline, and neck
• The development of jowls or a “turkey neck”
• Pronounced wrinkles that give you a permanently angry or tired expression

How Can I Find the Best Facelift Surgeon?

The first rule of thumb for finding a qualified facelift surgeon near you is to look for doctors that have earned board certification, which is an indication of their commitment to their craft. You will also want to make sure at least some portion of their practice specializes on facelift surgery. Don’t be shy about asking to see before-and-after photos of previous patients to ensure the surgeon’s aesthetic goals align with yours, and that you have realistic expectations for what a facelift can help you achieve. 

How Long Will My Recovery Take?

It’s also common for people to ask about how long they need to take off work and other daily activities while they heal from surgery. In general, you’ll need to plan 10 to 14 days for your recovery. Since Dr. Schmidt performs the surgery on an outpatient basis, make sure to arrange for someone you trust to drive you home, and to stay with you for the first couple of days to help you out around the house. 

How Much Pain, Swelling, and Bruising Can I Expect During My Recovery?

Many of Dr. Schmidt’s patients report minimal discomfort during their facelift recovery, and if you do feel pain, you should be able to manage it with medication. You can reduce swelling and bruising while sleeping with your head elevated. 

Will My Results Look Natural?

Facelift surgery has an unfortunate reputation for producing an unnatural, “wind-tunnel” appearance. While older facelift techniques may have created the pulled-back look, Dr. Schmidt uses methods that elevate the underlying muscles and tissues, restoring them to a more youthful position on the face. He then trims away excess skin to create a full rejuvenation. 

How Long Will My Results Last?

A facelift can create dramatic results, but it cannot halt the aging process in its tracks. However, by maintaining good lifestyle habits, you can get the most out of your surgery. Many patients find their results last 10 to 15 years, and if necessary, you can prolong your youthful appearance with maintenance procedures. 

Can I Combine a Facelift With Other Procedures?

Yes! Dr. Schmidt is happy to work with you to customize your surgery for an ideal aesthetic outcome. The procedures he most often performs alongside a facelift surgery include laser skin resurfacing, lip augmentation, and eyelid lifts. Dr. Schmidt will recommend additional options for you during your personalized consultation.

Will I Have Noticeable Scars After Surgery?

Any procedure that involves incisions can result in scarring. However, an experienced facelift surgeon like Dr. Schmidt knows how to make the incisions in discreet places that will heal virtually undetectably. 

Facelift Consultations in Denver

If you are looking for facelift surgery in Denver or Steamboat Springs, Colorado, schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Schmidt today. He puts his decade of experience and expertise in facial anatomy to work to benefit all his patients, and he looks forward to working with you.