Medically reviewed by Gerard C. Mosiello, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon
A facelift in Tampa, FL lifts sagging skin and tightens the tissue underneath to soften jowls, deep folds and loose skin on the face and neck. At Tampa Palms Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gerard Mosiello performs facelift surgery for patients from Tampa, New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, with incisions placed along the natural lines around the ear.
Facelift surgery, also known as rhytidectomy, is an extremely popular cosmetic procedure because of its ability to significantly improve most visible signs of aging on the face.
Facelift surgery is capable of rejuvenating both the facial and neck regions. The surgery typically involves the removal of excess skin, tissue and fat deposits, as well as the tightening of underlying tissue and muscles. Many patients pair a facelift with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) for a more complete result.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Facelift?
Ideal candidates for Tampa facelift surgery are healthy individuals who are dissatisfied with visible signs of aging on their face. Benefits of the surgery may include:
- Excess skin removal
- Tightening of muscles, tissues and skin
- Smoothing of facial and neck skin
- Elimination of jowls or a double chin
The best candidates will also be non-smokers. During the consultation process, Dr. Mosiello will be able to determine if the surgery is right for you.
Combining a Facelift with Other Procedures
A facelift addresses the face and neck, and many patients combine it with other procedures for a more complete result. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) refreshes tired-looking eyes, a brow lift raises a heavy or low brow, and a neck lift adds definition under the jaw. For lines that surgery doesn’t address, Botox can complement your results.
Facelift FAQs
What are the steps of the facelift procedure?
General anesthesia will be administered prior to your procedure. Surgical techniques vary, but incisions typically begin near the temples, extending in a natural line in front of the ear and continuing underneath the ear to the lower scalp.
Dr. Mosiello will then separate the skin from the underlying fat and tissue below. Excess fat deposits under the skin may be removed via liposuction, and the muscles and tissues will be repositioned. The skin is then stretched into a firm position and excess skin is removed. Incisions will be closed with fine sutures for minimal scarring.
What happens after a facelift?
A bandage, dressing or compression garment may be applied immediately following your procedure to minimize swelling and bruising. Tubes may also be inserted to collect fluid that naturally occurs in the incision areas.
It is common to experience some bruising and swelling, though it will generally subside within a few weeks. Stitches are typically removed within a week of surgery, at which time makeup may be worn. Incision lines will continue to fade for up to six months. During the healing process, it is important to protect your face from prolonged sun exposure and accidental trauma.
How much does a facelift cost in Tampa?
The cost of a facelift depends on the technique, whether you combine it with other procedures like eyelid surgery or a neck lift, and anesthesia and facility fees. Dr. Mosiello will give you a personalized quote at your consultation, and financing options are available.
How long is facelift recovery?
Most bruising and swelling settles within a few weeks. Stitches are typically removed within a week, and you can usually wear makeup at that point. Some numbness or tingling may last several weeks, and incision lines continue to fade for up to six months.
How long does a facelift last?
A facelift doesn’t stop the aging process, but results are long-lasting: your face continues to age naturally from a more youthful starting point. Protecting your skin from the sun, not smoking and maintaining a stable weight help your results last. Learn more about how a facelift turns back the hands of time.
What is the best age for a facelift?
There is no single best age. Good candidates are healthy non-smokers with loose skin, jowls or neck laxity that bothers them. During your consultation, Dr. Mosiello will assess your skin and facial structure and let you know whether a facelift is the right choice now.
Is there scarring from a facelift?
Though results vary from patient to patient, incision lines should be minimal after healing is complete. The incisions made during the surgery are purposely positioned to fit within the natural lines of the face and visible scarring will gradually fade for up to six months after your procedure. Our Tampa facelift patients often feel a renewed sense of confidence after their procedure. You can read what our patients from Tampa, New Tampa and Wesley Chapel say about their experience in our patient reviews.
How will I feel after the procedure?
There may be some discomfort immediately following your procedure due to swelling and bruising. Prescription medication may be prescribed to counteract these effects for the first few days. Some numbness or tingling may persist for several weeks.
Are there any possible complications?
Serious complications after a facelift are uncommon, but every surgery carries some risk. These rare situations may include pain, discomfort or asymmetric appearance. As with all surgical procedures, there is also the risk of bleeding, poor wound healing or infection. Some complications may require revisionary surgery. These risks will be discussed with each patient in depth during the consultation process with Dr. Mosiello.
Schedule a Facelift Consultation in Tampa
For more information about facelifts, or to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Mosiello, contact our office at 813-631-1500. The location of our Tampa Palms office is in New Tampa near Wesley Chapel. Dr. Gerard Mosiello is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Tampa Palms, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and the entire Tampa Bay area.
