Had a facelift or considering one, and curious as to how long it will last? Since your skin will continue aging after the procedure, just know that results are not permanent. For most people, the results of a facelift last about ten years, although this number varies by individual and is influenced by many factors. You’ll probably enjoy the benefits of a facelift for up to twenty years. In this post we’re going to look at some of the factors that may affect the longevity of your results.
Age
There is no right age to get a facelift, however patients in their 40’s and 50’s tend to see the results for a good amount of time. Generally speaking, skin that still has some degree of elasticity will better stand the test of time. The healing process may be faster since your skin tends to regenerate more quickly than it does as you get older. Also, if you’re younger at the time of your facelift you can avoid needing very drastic changes to your appearance.
Skincare
As with all skin, practicing a proper skincare regimen is the best way to maintain a youthful appearance. You should wash your face daily with a gentle cleanser and follow up with moisturizer. Additionally, one of the number one causes of premature aging comes from sun exposure. While you don’t need to completely avoid the sun, to maintain the results of your facelift it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen and consider wearing a hat to shade your face when outdoors.
Lifestyle
Taking care of your health is not only good for your body, but it benefits your skin as well. It’s important to eat a healthy diet consisting of fruits and vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats, while avoiding highly processed foods and sugar. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water will keep your skin moisturized and looking younger. Smoking is not only bad for your lungs, it is HORRIBLE for your skin! The nicotine in cigarettes restricts blood flow to your skin, resulting in less oxygen and nutrients, which in turn results in wrinkles and decreased elasticity. Any unnatural fluctuations in weight will have an effect on your skin. Your lifestyle can dramatically affect the longevity of your facelift results.
Type of Facelift
Facelifts or “mini” facelifts that focus only on the laxity of the skin and not the deeper muscles underneath will typically have shorter lasting results. Tightening of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer is critical in achieving long-lasting and natural results.
As with any procedure, it’s important to speak with your doctor about your own individual care and any follow-up consultations. Your doctor may be able to give you a more personalized approximation of what to expect from your procedure. A facelift can produce amazing results towards a more youthful appearance. Yes, your skin will still continue to age afterwards, but often, even after several years, you will still look more youthful than you would have without having the facelift at all. With proper care for your skin and overall health, these results will last for years to come.
