Facelift in Fresno, CA

Over the course of our lives, gravity, sun exposure, and daily stress take their toll on our skin. Due to chemical changes caused by ultraviolet radiation and stress hormones, our skin begins producing less collagen and elastin—supportive fibers that keep our skin taut and shapely. The muscles in our faces and necks also become weaker with repeated use, causing emotions like sadness and frustration to become etched into the skin in the form of deep creases around the mouth and eyes. The jawline slackens and develops jowls, and the neck develops loose folds and fat deposits. Facelifts (also known as rhytidectomy) counteract these indicators of age by stretching muscle taut, cutting away fat, and reducing excess skin, providing your face with a brighter, fresher look.

A personalized facelift designed and performed by Dr. Burnett can provide rejuvenating benefits that dermal fillers and nonsurgical treatments simply cannot match, including:

• Addresses multiple signs of aging simultaneously
• Dramatically smooths lines, wrinkles, and creases
• Effective for even moderate to severe lines and wrinkles
• Tightens sagging, loose skin
• Reduces large jowls and a double chin
• Defines and contours the jawline and neckline
• Can replenish lost facial volume
• Results are natural-looking and long-lasting
• Minimal scarring can be easily hidden
• Offers surgeries for both men and women

Generally, people interested in a facelift procedure want to tighten visible skin laxity in the mid or lower sections of the face. A facelift can address various sections, depending on your unique desired outcome. Patients should understand that age doesn't necessarily define the most effective time to receive a facelift. There are many individual reasons, in addition to numerous lift methods, to consider. The method performed will be different for candidates under 50 versus those over 60. Skin laxity is one of the primary elements in the planning process. Also, facelift candidates must be in good overall health, refrain from smoking, and have reasonable result expectations.

We begin all our procedures with a thorough initial consultation. Dr. Burnett and our team will discuss with you your medical history, current medications, and your overall physical and mental health. We'll take a look at your skin, evaluating the specific approach to surgery that will best benefit your goals. At the time, we'll be able to provide you with a cost estimate, an anticipated recovery time, as well as help you understand the risks and limitations related to the procedure. The procedure itself is performed in our surgery center over the course of a few hours, and it is usually an outpatient procedure. Dr. Burnett will make small incisions at various places around the ears, lower scalp, and hairline, where scars will be almost invisible. His technique then involves separating fat deposits, tightening muscles and skin, removing excess skin tissue. Small stitches are used to sew up the incision sites. Your face will be bandaged, and after one week, you'll return to have stitches removed. Recovery time typically takes 3 – 6 weeks.

You'll likely experience side effects swelling and bruising around the incision sites after facelift surgery. These side effects are normal and should dissipate over time. Dr. Burnett can prescribe medications to make the process more comfortable. We also provide detailed postoperative instructions that help you through the healing process. Following these instructions carefully is crucial to your success. Many people feel well enough to return to work and their normal activities within two weeks; however, it can take up to six weeks for any swelling to subside. Follow-up visits allow our staff to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

How much does a facelift cost?
The cost of your facelift will depend on the technique used. In your consultation, Dr. Burnett will create your unique treatment plan to match your needs and goals. Once this is established, he can discuss estimates of fees. To avoid results that look unnatural, it's best to concentrate on finding an experienced surgeon, like Dr. Burnett, instead of the lowest price. John F. Burnett, MD, can help you find low-interest medical financing that will make your surgery affordable.

Which technique is best for me?
The best surgical facelift technique for you will depend on your needs, goals, level of skin laxity, what areas are being addressed, and other factors. To produce your best results, Dr. Burnett will go over the different surgical techniques during your consultation. He can then help you decide which technique is best.

Should I get a surgical or nonsurgical facelift?
Although there are several great noninvasive skin tightening treatments, these can usually only produce mild improvements. If you have moderate to severe skin sagging, facelift surgery is the best choice to improve your appearance. In your consultation, Dr. Burnett will discuss your options, including nonsurgical procedures, to help you decide what is best for your goals.

What about dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers over facelift surgery?
Injectable wrinkle fillers and relaxers, like JUVÉDERM® and BOTOX®, have become more popular to improve fine lines and wrinkles. Sometimes known as a liquid facelift, nonsurgical wrinkle treatments can give early signs of aging; however, the results won't last more than 1 – 2 years. A facelift can produce more significant improvements than injectables, with results that can last for a long time. Ask Dr. Burnett about injectable treatments during your consultation.

Will my results look natural?
Some patients worry that a facelift will make their skin look shiny, overly tight, or like they live in a wind tunnel. Dr. Burnett focuses on giving you a natural-looking result, so you look refreshed, not fake. He listens to your needs and goals before developing your personal treatment plan with the technique that will produce your best results.

At John F. Burnett, MD, we're proud that many patients consider our facelifts to be among the best in Fresno, CA, Clovis, and Madera. Dr. John F. Burnett's considerable expertise provides our clients with stellar results time and again, and we'd love for you to experience the rejuvenation we can offer through highly precise facelift surgical techniques. Please call us today to schedule your consultation, and we'll work tirelessly to achieve your aesthetic goals.