Facelift FAQ

By Dr. Rosenblatt

What qualifications should I look for in a surgeon to do my face and eyes?

A board-certified plastic surgeon with experience doing cosmetic surgery is usually the best.

How can I find out if my plastic surgeon is board certified?

Go to: https://www.certificationmatters.org/is-your-doctor-board-certified/search-now.aspx (you will have to register but it is free).

What does eyelid surgery correct?

Upper lid excess, including hooding, and bagginess is corrected and the bags under the lower lids are removed.

What does facial surgery correct?

Many signs of aging can be improved, including sagging jowls and neck skin, and facial skin. Deep folds and wrinkles can also be improved at the same time.

How much younger will I look?

This is individual. It does roll back the years, but you will continue to age. The improvement from eyelid and facial surgery usually lasts at least 8-10 years. Many patients have results that last much longer.

Do I need to do them both together?

No, you may do them at different times; it all depends on what you need.

Where are the incisions?

Eyelid surgery can be done without a visible scar on the lower lids and the small scar on the upper lid is hidden in the eyelid fold. As it fades, it usually becomes almost invisible. The scar on the face is around the ear and sometimes under the chin. It too fades with time. The actual length and position of the scars need to be discussed at your consultation because they vary depending on the procedure you need.

Is there a non-surgical facelift?

If you have a minor deformity, sometimes fillers such as Radiesse® or Juvéderm® can lessen it. But fillers are not a long-lasting solution. As the results of fillers disappear, there are other procedures, such as ThermiLift, ThermiSmooth and Liposuction of the neck, which can help tighten the skin and remove excess fat. When these are no longer an option, surgery is required to get the best long-lasting result.

What kind of anesthesia do you use for facial cosmetic surgery?

I use either deep sedation or sometimes general and local anesthesia, depending on the procedure and patient needs. You are asleep, feel no pain, and are not aware of the surgery taking place.

How long is the surgery and will I need to stay in a hospital?

The surgery is usually done in my AAAASF-certified operating room, but can be done in either Lenox Hill Hospital or Manhattan Eye and Ear Hospital, if you prefer. If you choose the less expensive office-based surgery option, you rest in the recovery room for a couple of hours and go home with a companion later in the day.

What can I expect after I go home?

There is a bulky dressing around your face and iced compresses on your eyelids. You will need to keep ice compresses on your eyes and rest for the first 2 days after surgery. There is only minor discomfort and you will be given an analgesic if you need it.

What is the recovery like?

You will come back to see me the next day to remove the bulky dressing and put on a lighter dressing. At the next visit (day 3-5), some sutures are removed and the rest are removed by 10-14 days. Black and blue is usually minimal and goes away completely within 2-3 weeks. During that time, makeup can be used to cover any fading bruises.

When can I go back to work or to the gym?

It all depends on the type of work you do. Usually you can return within the first 10 days. I prefer you wait about 4 weeks before very strenuous activities are started. There is minimal down time with a well done blepharoplasty and face lift.