There are not many topics that are as disputed or seem to stir up as many opinions as those in the world of beauty and cosmetic surgery. Am I too young for my first procedure? Am I too old? What is the right time to have some work done?
The truth comes down to the fact that there is no “right” time for cosmetic surgery, it simply revolves around when the time is right for you. However, there are some important factors to consider when opting for your first facelift procedure.
For most women, the first thoughts about facelifts seem to spring up when they hear their friends mention the topic casually over brunch. The conversations usually involve wanting to take a few years off, or simply, the desire for a new and refreshing look.
Yet, once these chats start taking place you’ll find yourself in front of the mirror pulling back at those eyelids, stretching out those cheeks, and wondering: Am I the right candidate for a facelift?
Typically, that’s the point when your friends tell you you don’t need one, because you look fantastic as you are. You think to yourself: Should I just wait until I really need one?
Well, to answer the questions and myths accurately, it’s important to dive into the subject matter.
What are facelifts really and when is it time to consider opting for one?
What is a Facelift?
A facelift or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the face and neck by tightening and contouring the sides of the face and even removing fat deposit cells in order to give off a more youthful appearance.
For the majority of patients, facelifts are outpatient procedures involving a relatively short recovery and healing time, approximately two weeks. So what are the truths about the musts for successful facelift results?
Traits the Best candidates for Facelifts Share
Good Skin Elasticity: A good facelift candidate will have skin that retains some flexibility and elasticity. Due to the fact that the procedure stretches skin in order to remove signs of aging, it’s important to have some natural bounce to speed up the healing process and maximize results.
What does this mean age-wise? Typically, women begin to show signs of aging in their late 30s and maintain their skin elasticity up until the late 40s and early 50s. Therefore, the more natural elasticity you have, the better the chance of achieving the results you want.
Overall Good Health: A facelift is a surgical procedure; therefore, it is recommended that you be in general good health to aid with a shorter recovery time and minimizing risk.
A patient that has minimal health conditions, is a non-smoker, and maintains a balanced diet and weight plan is more likely to have better results when considering a facelift.
Realistic Expectations: So you want to go in looking like Betty White and come out looking like Catherine Zeta Jones? Well, unfortunately, it doesn’t quite work that way.
While the benefits of facelifts can take considerable years off the right candidate and produce a youthful look to aspire to, they are not the equivalent of taking a sip from the fountain of youth.
It’s important to have realistic expectations of what you can achieve from a facelift, and what areas you can improve. However, expecting a 360 degree appearance change is not recommended.
When is the Right Time for Facelift?
This leads back to the question, “How old should I be when I start considering my first facelift? Should I wait?” You could consider putting off surgery "until you really need it," but, truthfully, when you still look great might be the best time to consider having a facelift as your skin will have the elasticity to optimize the natural-looking results you desire.
Moreover, your skin and your body are typically quicker to heal when you are younger. The older you get, the longer the recovery process may last. Also, having a facelift surgery sooner rather than later is less dramatic when your face is just starting to show signs of age, as opposed to when you already look older and people have grown accustomed to a more mature you.
Facelifts Offer Individualized Results
Yet, the most important myth to disprove here is that there is no magical age number that encapsulates the adequate moment to have your first facelift.
While some people might be drop-dead gorgeous and have skin as smooth as a baby’s bottom at age 55, others might show signs of aging at 38. After all, there is no one size fits all in the world of cosmetic surgery, it is more about individualized results.
Overall, it is true that people in their 40’s and 50’s are healthier with fewer medical issues than those over 60, and younger people are generally better candidates for an elective surgery such as a facelift.
Yet, in the facelift world, it is important to think of age in a more physiological manner as opposed to chronological. So what is the best age to get your first face lift? That depends on the age at which you feel healthy, balanced, and whether your skin still retains the elastic qualities to meet your expectations.
Schedule a Facelift Today
To learn more about your Facelift procedure options, contact Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists. Dr. Rubinstein is one of the top facial plastic surgeons in New York and is double board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. He is also an active member of the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery. Dr. Rubinstein brings to his practice a diverse background and expertise in lasers and cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyes, face, neck. Furthermore, he has been an assistant professor at the very prestigious Columbia – New York Presbyterian Hospital for over 15 years where he has participated in training future surgeons. Dr. Rubinstein has been recognized by his peers as one of the leading trainers for esthetic laser & injectable procedures. He is one of the most sought after physician trainers in the northeast. More information about Dr. Rubinstein can be found at www.yourfacemd.com . To schedule a consultation, call 845-863-1772 or email info@YourFaceMD.com.
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