Frequently Asked Questions About Facelifts

Posted on October 19, 2015

New York Facial Plastic Surgeon Answers Frequently Asked Questions About the Facelift

Dr. W. Matthew White responds to common questions about the facelift procedure, from what the surgery specifically addresses to how long results can last.

New York, NY – Dr. W. Matthew White has dedicated his career to performing plastic and reconstructive surgery of the face. He has become a recognized leader on the topic of facial aging, acquiring particular expertise on facelift surgery. In an effort to improve general understanding of the popular facial procedure, Dr. White has provided a look inside what facelift surgery entails by addressing frequently asked questions.

The New York facial plastic surgeon notes that a common misconception of facelift surgery is it addresses the entire face. In actuality, he reveals the procedure is designed to treat the lower two-thirds of the face, and especially the neck. Should patients require further surgical intervention, Dr. White notes that additional procedures, such as the browlift or eyelid lift, can beautifully supplement their results. He goes on to explain that not all facelifts are created equal.

In addition to the traditional full facelift, Dr. White identifies two other techniques that prove to be more appropriate for certain individuals. The mini-facelift, he says, is a viable option for those in their 40s or young 50s who simply need minor correction and have minimal skin laxity. A mid-facelift, on the other hand, specifically targets the cheeks. Dr. White explains with this technique, the cheek tissue that tends to sag with age is elevated to a higher, more youthful position to restore fullness.

The technique–whether full facelift, mid-facelift, or mini-facelift–is one of several factors that can affect the longevity of the results, says Dr. White. Other influencers include the patient’s genetic predisposition for aging, the condition of their skin prior to surgery, and their age at the time of the facelift. Perhaps the most crucial element of all, Dr. White reveals, is the skill and expertise of the surgeon.

“I think it is essential for patients to look for a surgeon who has a particular expertise in facial surgery. Facial anatomy is extremely complex, and a facelift is not the type of surgery you can develop a mastery in by doing just a few cases per year. A beautifully refreshed look with no hint of surgery constitutes a well-done facelift.”

About W. Matthew White, MD

Dr. White is the Director of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at NYU Langone Medical Center. He is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who received his surgical training at Harvard Medical School. Dr. White completed an internship in Surgery at the Massachusetts General Hospital, then completed an Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residency at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. Dr. White then completed further sub-specialty fellowship training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at NYU School of Medicine. He remains an active member of several professional organizations, including the New York Facial Plastic Surgery Society and the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. White is available for interview upon request.