This article provided by Dr. Stanley Jacobs. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit Dr. Jacobs online or you may reach his office at 707-524-2017.

Facelift, or rhytidectomy, are well known names yet few facts about the topic are publicly known. My intent is to break down the barriers that prevent people from pursuing their desires of facial plastic surgery due to a lack of knowledge. I have found that through education, individuals are more intellectually and emotionally prepared to make well-informed decisions.

The anatomy and physiology of aging involves multiple levels of the facial tissues: skin, subcutaneous tissue, fat, fascia, muscle, and bone. Many years ago and even today, some surgeons rely on pulling the skin to achieve a surgical outcome. This approach is substandard. Improving the fat contour (or liposculpting) along with some fascial tightening is an improvement. Some surgeons only partially tighten the S.M.A.S., or superficial-musculo-aponeurotic-system. This tough layer of white fibrous tissue extends from the cheekbone to the jawline. At the jawline it attaches to the broadsheet of muscle in the neck called the platysma muscle.

During surgery, I perform extensive S.M.A.S. and subperiosteal work by lifting, moving, trimming, and contouring. This is known as a Deep Plane Facelift. This is achieved in "vectors" of pull according to each patient. The neck portion of my facelift (included in all my facelifts) involves significant platysma work. The sagging bands in the neck ("turkey neck") are tightened by direct surgical technique. This area is often not addressed by some surgeons, and often is added as a separate procedure with an additional cost to the patient. The results of my facelifts exhibit a natural effect, not a pulled one. Yielding a fresher, rested, and more youthful appearance. The results speak for themselves.

Aging occurs differently in all of us. Genetics, the environment (sun exposure), and modifiable characteristics of our personal health (smoking) will shape your face. We are unable to do much about pedigree, but we can affect our environment and health habits. Stopping smoking, regular exercise and weight loss prior to the facelift surgery is important to achieve optimum desired results.

I perform my facelifts with the patient''s genetics and general health in mind. Facial esthetics and proportions are studied and discussed with the patient with the use of a computer image.

During your facial plastic surgery consultation, I discuss these many con- cepts as they apply to your needs. Additionally, I can combine other facial plastic procedures in concert with the facelift. For example,an eyelift, nose, lips, and/or forehead lift can be performed to complete the harmonious presentation of the face simultaneously. Dr. Jacobs prefers to spend 45-60 minutes in each new consultation.

This article provided by Dr. Stanley Jacobs. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit Dr. Jacobs online or you may reach his office at 707-524-2017.