A new study measures how long a facelift lasts
A major concern among plastic surgery patients is how long the procedure will last. For women undergoing a facelift procedure in Des Moines, it is important to know that there is no scientific proof for doctors to effectively answer this question. There is very little information on this because typically if they are happy after undergoing a facelift procedure, they do not return.
Dr. Barry Jones of London, England uses a standardized photographic system for his before and after photos. The photographs have to be taken in the exact same way for them to be considered comparable. In a ten year time period, Dr. Jones performed 1,700 deep plane facelifts. About 50 of these patients returned back to the office within a five year time frame but for reasons not related to their facelift. This gave Dr. Jones the opportunity to photograph their faces again.
The study analyzed the photographs of these 50 women at three months, six months, and again at five years following their procedure. Researchers analyzed different aspects of their faces. An advanced computer program was used in determining the differences between faces. The computer examined the jowl, mouth to chin lines, nose to mouth lines and angle between neck and chin. The positive changes made to the lower part of the face remained constant after five years.
The improvement of jowl height decreased by about 20 percent. The angle between the neck and chin reduced a dramatic 70 percent. Decrease in appearance was mostly in the neck area. Dr. Jones stated, “Scoring suggested that 76 percent of patients will still look younger 5½ years after a facelift than they did prior to the facelift.”
This study was conducted with the goal for doctors to have a clear answer when patients ask them how long the procedure will last. This study will have to be researched even further to effectively answer a patient’s question. At about five years following the facelift procedure, yes, the facelift will still look good. Anything later down the line, it is unknown how much deterioration your face will endure. According to the study the neck area was already starting to decrease in appearance. It can be assumed that it will likely decrease more as a patient ages.
It also seems safe to assume that no plastic surgery will last forever. People age and bodies slowly deteriorate. It is imperative for patients to be aware that it won’t last forever. Sure, it may be a long time before it needs to be redone, but it isn’t a permanent solution.
Dr. Franks is a Des Moines plastic surgeon that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He also has specialized training and twelve years of experience as a craniofacial surgeon and is uniquely qualified to perform any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure of the face. If you have questions you are welcome to call wdfplastic surgery to schedule your complimentary consultation. Dr. Franks can answer any questions you may have regarding surgical or non surgical treatment options and recovery. His office can also provide you with cost estimates for procedures. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact wdf plastic surgery at 515.421.4299.