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Q - What is rhytidectomy?
Rhytidectomy, known more commonly as a facelift, is a plastic surgery procedure which tightens loose skin in the lower third of the face as well as the jaw line and neck.

Q - Who is a good candidate for rhytidectomy?
Healthy men and women who are seeking an improvement in sagging skin of the face and neck may be good candidates for a facelift. The best results tend to be achieved in patients with a strong or prominent underlying bony structure.

Q - What can I expect during the rhytidectomy consultation?
During the consultation, your face will be examined, your medical history taken, and your goals discussed. The technique, anesthesia, recovery, risks, costs and other details of the procedure will be explained.

Q - Where is rhytidectomy performed?
Dr. Moynihan performs facelift procedure in an outpatient surgical center.

Q - What is the anesthesia used for rhytidectomy?
Sedation, general anesthesia, or local anesthesia may be used for the facelift.

Q - How is rhytidectomy performed?
The incision for rhytidectomy begins above the ear in the hair and continues in front of the ear along the contour of the ear cartilage, ending behind the ear at the hairline. For male patients, the portion of the incision located in front of the ear does not completely follow the contour of the cartilage secondary to their bearded skin.

Q - How long is the surgical time for rhytidectomy?
The facelift takes two to four hours to complete.

Q - Where are the incisions made for rhytidectomy?
The incision for the facelift begins in the hair above the ear, continues in front of the ear following the contour of the ear cartilage, and ends at the hairline behind the ear. For men, the part of the incision located in front of the ear does not fully follow the contour of the cartilage secondary to their bearded skin.

Q - Will I have scars after undergoing rhytidectomy?
The facelift does result in scars, though they tend to be well-concealed in the hairline and the natural creases of the ears.

Q - How much pain occurs after rhytidectomy?
Pain after the facelift is typically not significant, though medication can help to manage any discomfort that patients do experience.

Q - What is the recovery like after undergoing rhytidectomy?
Patients can expect a recovery of about one to two weeks after the facelift. Bruising, swelling, and numbness can occur, and it may take two to three weeks for the bruising to fade. Within one to five days after surgery, the bandages will be removed.

Q - How much time should I plan to take off from work after my rhytidectomy procedure?
The length of time required for patients to be out of work is mostly dependent upon how quickly the bruising fades. In general, patients can usually expect to be out of work for one to two weeks.

Q - Can I exercise after my rhytidectomy procedure?
Light exercise may be resumed after the first week, though patients will need to hold off on more strenuous activities for two weeks.  

Q - When are the stitches removed after the rhytidectomy procedure?
The stitches are removed one week after surgery.

Q - Are there any risks associated with undergoing rhytidectomy?
All surgery carries some risk. For rhytidectomy, this may include the risk of fluid collection, skin necrosis (skin loss), temporary or permanent facial nerve injury, cosmetic asymmetry, and widened scars.

Q - Will my insurance company cover the cost of rhytidectomy?
Though patients will need to check with their own insurer, facelifts are usually considered cosmetic in nature and are typically not covered by insurance.