Facelift Surgery in Washington, DC
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED TO SERVE WASHINGTON, DC
As you get older, sagging cheeks and a less defined jawline can gradually change the shape of your face. You may also notice deeper folds around your mouth or loose skin beneath your chin. At The DC Cosmetic Surgery Center, Dr. Michael Olding performs facelift surgery in Washington, DC, to address these changes and restore more defined facial contours.
Request a consultation with Dr. Olding to discuss your options.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is surgery to correct sagging in the lower face. It involves lifting the supporting tissues beneath the skin and removing excess skin to treat jowls, lower-cheek sagging, and deeper folds around the mouth.
The procedure often includes the neck, where loose skin can affect the outline beneath the jaw and chin. Treating these connected areas together improves the transition between the lower face and neck.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Facelift Surgery?
A facelift may be appropriate if sagging in your lower face and neck has become bothersome. Suitable candidates generally:
- Are in good overall health, with any medical conditions well controlled.
- Do not smoke or can follow instructions about stopping nicotine use.
- Have realistic expectations about the changes surgery can achieve.
You should also have time available for recovery and someone who can help you during the early stages of healing.
Your Consultation With Dr. Michael Olding
Your initial consultation usually lasts about one hour. Dr. Olding examines your face and neck, reviews your medical history, and asks what you would like to change. Bring photographs of yourself from earlier years so he can see how your features have changed over time.
He will explain the recommended operation, preparation instructions, and expected recovery. You can discuss how much correction is appropriate and whether any additional procedures would be helpful.
I DON’T LOOK OLD AND TIRED, SO I DON’T FEEL OLD AND TIRED
A week after my facelift I was working in the yard when two women walked by. They asked, “What happened to the lady who lived here?” I told them it was me – I’ve lived here for 35 years. One woman said, “Oh, it must have been your mother.” I have felt more energetic too. I don’t look old and tired so I don’t feel old and tired. Thank you Dr. Olding for changing my life at the age of 69!
Janice S.
What to Expect During the Facelift Procedure
Facelift surgery generally takes several hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Dr. Olding makes incisions around the ears, extending into the hairline as needed.
Through these incisions, he lifts and repositions the deeper facial tissues to improve the contours of the lower face and neck. He then redrapes the skin, removes the excess, and closes the incisions with sutures.
Dressings and temporary drains are placed before you move to a monitored recovery area.
Facelift Recovery and Follow-Up
After a monitored recovery period, you will return home or to a nearby hotel. Arrange for someone to drive you and stay with you overnight.
You will return to the office the following day for an initial postoperative check and removal of your dressings and drains. Showering generally begins after this visit, following your instructions. Suture removal starts at a later follow-up appointment as your incisions heal.
For the first two weeks, avoid workouts, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities. Most patients feel comfortable socializing after two to three weeks, although recovery varies. Dr. Olding will provide incision-care instructions and advise you when to resume exercise and other activities.
Benefits of Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery can improve the lower face and neck in several ways, including:
- A more defined jawline.
- A smoother transition between the lower face and neck.
- Improvements in facial contour that last for years.
Treating both areas during one operation also allows for a single recovery period.
Facelift Cost in Washington, DC
The cost of a facelift depends on the extent of correction, the surgical technique, and the expected operating time. Combining it with neck contouring, eyelid surgery, or facial fat grafting also affects the price.
After Dr. Olding develops your surgical plan, our patient liaison will provide a personalized written estimate.
Why Choose The DC Cosmetic Surgery Center?
At The DC Cosmetic Surgery Center, your facelift is personally performed by Dr. Michael Olding, who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He brings more than 20 years of surgical experience and is known for natural-looking facelift results.
Dr. Olding completed surgical training at Cornell Medical Center and McGill University. He also serves as Professor of Surgery and Chief of Plastic Surgery at The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences.
Our private Washington, DC, office welcomes local, out-of-town, and international patients. For patients traveling for surgery, our staff can help coordinate nearby accommodations and arrange overnight nursing assistance when needed.
Facelift Frequently Asked Questions
Discuss Your Facelift With Dr. Olding
If you are considering facelift surgery in Washington, DC, speak directly with Dr. Michael Olding about your options. He will explain what surgery could achieve and whether it is appropriate for you. Contact our office to arrange your personal consultation.