Face Lift Procedures - Get an Overview of What's Available

If you want to look a bit younger and more refreshed, you are probably considering getting a face lift. You may assume there is only one type since few people discuss the specifics of each kind, but the truth is that there are a few to choose from. Get to know some of the types of lifts that you can choose from.

The most popular kind used today is the endoscopic approach, in which a tiny camera, or endoscope, is placed under the skin to guide the surgeon during treatment. He or she can watch the footage on a monitor, which means that the incision does not need to be nearly as big as it is during a traditional procedure without the camera. In fact, most surgeons can simply make a few small cuts through which they insert the camera, rather than a long incision. This also makes recovery easier and reduces the risk of hurting the nerves. However, it may not be advisable if you have a lot of loose skin, or want your neck tightened too.

If you have quite a bit of sagging, or want your neck to look smoother, you should probably go with the more common superficial musculoaponeurotic system, or SMAS procedure. This is more traditional, and tends to offer the best results in the long run. It is usually the ideal treatment for older adults with deep wrinkles and sagging skin on their necks, but the downside is that the recovery period is longer.

If you have particularly deep wrinkles or lots of sagging, you may need a deep plane face lift. Though it usually costs a bit more, and requires a longer recovery period with more risks, you will find the results worth it. This is because little else may help if your doctor thinks this is the best procedure for you. You don't want to endure a less intense procedure only to find that it does not work, so stick with this one if your surgeon advises it.

Finally, a mini face lift can do wonders for patients on the younger side with just minor facial sagging. It is less invasive with a shorter recovery period. On the other hand, it will not last for life, so eventually you will need the traditional treatment performed for the best results. However, for now it should work to get you the smooth, youthful look that you once had. It is usually perfect for patients in their thirties and forties who want to look closer to their twenties.

You should talk to your doctor about the types of procedures available. You can go over the risks and benefits of each, as well as the recovery period and costs. While these will add up to help you decide, what should really matter to you is the result. If your surgeon thinks a treatment will have less of an effect than an invasive procedure will, consider the fact that it is better to get the results you want in one day of surgery than it is to have a few surgeries done because you did not get the right one to begin with.