What's the Secret to

Though most people undergo a face lift to reverse or amend what nature gave them, the hallmark of a job well done is a "natural" look. Television and movie stars regularly blab about the latest work they've had done, but what if you are one of the many non-celebrities who just want some touching up? Generations of women have garnered the envy of many while secretly relying on the scalpel. With a good enough surgeon and a little know-how, you'll have everyone dying to know how you continue to look so young. Here are a few ways to keep the fact that you got a face lift under wraps. 1. Check out the doctor's work beforehand. As with any surgery, you will visit with a doctor for at least one consultation before going under the knife. Don't feel obligated to commit to the first doctor you meet with, especially if you are unimpressed by his work. Even better, some cosmetic surgeons' offices post pictures of their work on their websites, so you can get a taste of what they have to offer before ever stepping foot inside the building. The thing to look for is before and after photos that show natural, but impressive changes. The more skilled your surgeon, the more naturally beautiful you will look. 2. Allow yourself enough time for recovery. After receiving a face lift, you may be up and about in as little as a day. However, your face often needs a bit more time to settle in to its new place, and bruising and swelling may occur. It is best to clear your work or social schedule for at least two weeks to make sure your beautiful new face is at its best. You can tell people you are going on vacation or just having some "me" time. You'd be telling the truth, after all. Also, you are typically allowed to start wearing makeup again after two weeks, so going back to work before that might trigger some questioning if you are someone who normally wears makeup. 3. Get a new 'do. Face lift scars are hidden along the ears and surrounding hairline. If you see a good enough cosmetic surgeon, your scars will be nearly invisible to the naked eye. However, if you want to be extra sure to avoid nosy inquiries, you may want to try out a new hairstyle that has some side bang and covers the ears. If your hair was much different than this before your "vacation," you can simply attribute your new, youthful look to the way your new hair frames your face. It would be wise to have any salon work done before, not after, your face lift. 4. Play it off. Should any anyone prod you about how you achieved your great new look, just shrug it off and say, "That's what two weeks of vacation will do for you!" Women often boast surgery-like results from creams or exercises, so you can always smile and go on about all the miracles they worked for you too. Whatever you do, don't let anything get in the way of enjoying your new, younger look.