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A rhytidectomy is a cosmetic surgical operation in which the loose
muscles of the face and neck are tightened, and the skin is redraped
and the excess trimmed.
Occasionally, the patient and surgeon may decide that in order
to attain the desired optimal result, additional ancillary procedures
such as laser skin resurfacing, liposuction, eyelid surgery, a brow
lift, or a chin implant may be required. These additional procedures
will be discussed separately as they are not an actual part of the
face lift operation.
The operation requires approximately two hours. It may be performed
under local anesthesia with intravenous sedatives as required to
ensure the patient's comfort, or under general anesthesia. An anesthesiologist
will be present to administer the sedatives (or general anesthetic)
and assist in monitoring all patients to ensure their safety.
At the completion of the operation, drainage tubes are frequently
placed beneath the skin to minimize swelling. These tubes are connected
to a bulb. It is necessary to empty the drainage fluid a few times
at home. The nurse will give instructions at the time of discharge.
The patient may choose to go home on the day of surgery or spend
the night with an office consultant or nurse from the surgery center.
The drains will be removed in the office usually on the first post
operative visit.
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