Facelift in Buffalo, NY

In Buffalo, Dr. Shatkin performs Facelift Surgery, also known as Rhytidectomy or mini facelift, which is a surgical procedure designed to smooth and firm the skin, providing a fresh, youthful appearance. Dr. Shatkin and his team of skin care specialists beilieve in "Combination Rejuvenation" which essentially means correcting aging changes related to changes in the surface of the skin as well as laxity.  These corrections often require pre surgical treatment of the skin to achieve the maximal result and final outcome.  Since our skin is affected by the sun’s radiation, stress, gravity, and other factors cause it to sag and fit more loosely, areas of the face and neck, in particular around the jaw line, are especially prone to the aging process.  Though these changes are gradual, wrinkles and other signs of aging can make individuals “feel older” than they really are.

During the facelift procedure, Dr. Shatkin will lift  and realign the facial and neck skin to provide  a more youthful and natural look.  It is common that Dr. Shatkin will perform a facelift in conjunction with other facial cosmetic procedures such as eyelift and browlift and can be performed any time signs of aging begin to appear, however, patients are generally in their forties or older when they elect to undergo this procedure.

Reasons for Considering a Facelift:

• Sagging skin, muscles, and fat in the face and neck.
• Excess skin and fat on the neck.
• Sagging jaw line.
• Crease lines along the nose, mouth, and chin.

General Procedure

The standard procedure for a facelift commonly involves making small incisions just inside the hairline, following the contour in front of the ear, and continuing under the earlobe to the backside of the ear and to the lower scalp.  Tissue and fat deposits are separated, the skin is stretched and tightened, and any excess skin is removed.  If the neck line requires attention, an additional incision is made under the chin and the same procedure is again followed.  Fine stitches are used to close the incisions and to reduce any chance of scarring. Metal clips or staples may also be utilized at the hairline.

A face lift usually takes between 2 1/2 to 3 hours or longer depending on whether other cosmetic procedures are completed at the same time.  Sometimes other procedures may be performed in separate appointments.  There are several different facelift techniques that can be employed.  Patients can discuss with Dr. Shatkin which method is best for them when they come in for their consultation.

A. Incisions are made around ears and in the temple and behind the ear.

B. Skin is lifted and pulled in an upward and outward direction and sutures are placed.

Recovery Process

Immediately after surgery, the face is fitted with bandages in order to decrease the recovery time and to reduce swelling.  Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing and recovery process.  The stitches, clips or staples are normally removed within a week. Patients sometimes report some minor discomfort associated with surgery.  Any discomfort can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given after the procedure.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS OF FACELIFTS PERFORMED

BY DR. SHATKIN