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The Ageing Process

Through ageing our appearance progressively changes and in particular our skin loses elasticity and our muscles tend to slacken. The stresses of daily life, the effects of gravity, exposure to the sun and the general abuse through which we put our bodies can be easily seen. On our faces the folds and smile lines deepen, the corners of the mouth begin to droop and the jaw sags with the skin of the neck becoming slack. Around our eyes the skin collects in folds in the upper lids and deepening creases in the lower lids eventually form what are commonly known as 'bags'. There are of course some instances where these conditions can develop earlier in life than would normally be expected.

The ageing effect of the skin is easily identified in the face and appears around the eyelids earlier than elsewhere. A general complaint is one of looking tired and haggard, particularly in the morning with the effect being pronounced if the individual has gone through a particularly stressful period or has had lack of sleep.

The rate at which the ageing process occurs varies from one person to another and is probably determined by our genes. Ageing of the skin does not necessarily reflect the rate at which the rest of our body and mind is ageing and many people feel frustrated, particularly with the look of their face and facial skin. It should be remembered that substantial weight loss could produce similar changes in appearance to those of the ageing process.

The Facelift

The facelift is of interest to those whose face and neck has begun to sag. It primarily addresses the "jowls" which obscure the jaw line below each cheek as well as the "turkey" neck. The facelift operation does not have an effect on the whole face.

The operation lifts the lower part of the face and neck restoring the jaw line but it will not eradicate lines on the forehead, around the mouth or the "crows feet" around the eyes. Other procedures are available to deal with these problems.

A facelift involves a general anaesthetic and an overnight stay in hospital. The stitches are hidden in the hairline and around the ear. Quite often there is no bruising, but if there is, it appears on the cheeks and neck and can be easily disguised with a little make-up.

In the right candidate, the results are excellent. It should not be obvious that the patient has had a facelift. Instead they will look young, more cheerful and full of vitality. The effect of the facelift is long lasting. It does not stop the ageing process but simply the patient will not look as old as they would have done, had the surgery not been carried out.

Your Consultation

Only an experienced Consultant Plastic Surgeon can give you an honest opinion as to whether any of these procedures are suitable for you. At PPS Ltd your initial, and all consultations will be with the surgeon who will be performing your operation and in this way you have access to the best advice available.

You should explain exactly what results you are seeking, make sure that all of your questions are answered and listen to the advice and recommendations of your surgeon.

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