Plastic Surgery - Common Facial Procedures

Many modern plastic surgery techniques have been in use for centuries, but they have never been as popular as they are today. Additionally, many procedures have been developed more recently, allowing people to make changes to any body part that they dislike. There is a long and varied list of available plastic surgeries that can alter the legs, arms, buttocks, and so on. While people can change the appearance of almost any part of the body, no changes are as obvious and noticeable as those that are made to the face. A person’s set of facial features are almost as distinctive as fingerprints. Making alterations to those features can greatly improve a person’s self-image. Here are some common facial plastic surgery procedures:

- Face Lift: When a person ages, skin on his or her face loses it elasticity and begins to hang. A face lift involves removing and/or tightening skin from the neck and lower jaw line to make the person look younger. This surgery is common for people ages 40 to 70, and is ideal for people with undefined jaw lines or loose neck skin. The surgeon makes incisions under the hair above the patient’s ears. The skin, muscles and tissue are then moved to achieve symmetry. The procedure can take up to five hours and require hospitalization for one day. The results of a face lift are not permanent, but can last for up to seven years on average.

- Facial Implants: This type of implant can be made of a variety of synthetic materials. They are placed in the cheeks or the chin to strengthen those features. Incisions are usually made inside the mouth so scars are not visible, and the implants are inserted deep under the tissue onto the bone. Sometimes, small surgical screws are used to secure the implant’s location. Facial implants are intended to strengthen the profile and create a balance with other facial features.

- Eyelid Surgery: This type of treatment removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids. It is sometimes done solely for cosmetic purposes, but can also be performed to improve vision that is impaired by the excess skin on the upper eyelid. An eye exam is typically given prior to the surgery to determine whether or not vision is hindered.

- Rhinoplasty: Commonly known as a nose job, this type of plastic surgery may be for cosmetic or functional purposes. The appearance of the nose is altered, but the nasal airways may also be functionally improved. The surgeon can make incisions on the inside or outside of the nose depending on the extent of the changes to be made. He or she can change the bone structure in the upper part of the nose or change the cartilage in the lower portion. In some cases, both bone and cartilage are altered. Afterward, splints or dissolving materials are placed either inside or outside of the nose while it heals.

Each of these plastic surgery procedures carries risks, including infection and temporary or permanent numbness in the affected area. They also all require time for swelling to go down before results become evident. There are a great deal more facial surgeries offered. Deciding on the right procedure on an individual basis requires consultation with a plastic surgeon. This professional can provide a patient with recommendations to yield the best results.