What is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to address signs of aging in the face and neck. By tightening underlying muscles, removing excess skin, and repositioning facial tissues, Dr. Mukami Gathariki creates a smoother, more youthful appearance. This procedure can reduce sagging skin, deep creases, jowls, and loose neck skin, restoring a natural, refreshed look without an overdone appearance.

Dr. Mukami uses advanced techniques to ensure minimal scarring and a natural outcome, tailoring each facelift to the patient’s unique facial structure and aesthetic goals. The procedure is often combined with a neck lift or other facial procedures like eyelid surgery or fat grafting for comprehensive rejuvenation.

Benefits of a Facelift

• Youthful Contours: Restores firmness to sagging skin and redefines the jawline.
• Long-Lasting Results: Results can last 7–10 years with proper skincare and lifestyle.
• Natural Appearance: Advanced techniques ensure a refreshed look without a “pulled” effect.
• Improved Confidence: Enhances self-esteem by aligning your appearance with your inner vitality.
• Customizable: Tailored to address specific concerns, such as jowls, neck laxity, or midface sagging.

Who is a Candidate for a Facelift?

Ideal candidates for a facelift are individuals who:

• Are in good overall health with no serious medical conditions.
• Have visible signs of facial aging, such as sagging skin, jowls, or deep wrinkles.
• Are non-smokers or willing to quit before and after surgery.
• Have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure.
• Are typically aged 40–70, though younger or older patients may qualify based on individual needs.

During your consultation at Nairobi Sculpt Aesthetic Centre, Dr. Mukami will evaluate your facial anatomy, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to determine if a facelift is right for you.

The Facelift Procedure

The facelift procedure is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the surgery. Here’s an overview of the process:

1. Consultation: Dr. Mukami discusses your goals, assesses your facial structure, and designs a personalized surgical plan.
2. Anesthesia: Administered for your comfort during the procedure.
3. Incisions: Incisions are strategically placed around the ears and hairline to minimize visible scarring. For a full facelift, incisions may extend to the lower scalp.
4. Tissue Repositioning: Underlying muscles (SMAS layer) are tightened, and excess skin is removed. Fat may be redistributed or added for volume.
5. Closure: Incisions are closed with fine sutures to promote optimal healing.
6. Duration: The procedure typically takes 3–5 hours, depending on the complexity and whether additional procedures are performed.

Dr. Mukami employs modern techniques, such as the deep-plane facelift or SMAS facelift, to achieve natural, long-lasting results with minimal recovery time.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from a facelift varies by patient, but here’s what to expect:

• First Week: Swelling and bruising are common. You’ll wear a supportive bandage to minimize swelling. Most patients can return to light activities within 7–10 days.
• Two Weeks: Sutures are typically removed, and swelling begins to subside. You may resume non-strenuous work.
• One Month: Most swelling and bruising resolve, and you can gradually return to normal activities, including exercise.
• Full Recovery: Final results are visible within 3–6 months as tissues settle and scars fade.

Dr. Mukami provides detailed aftercare instructions, including:

• Keeping your head elevated to reduce swelling.
• Avoiding sun exposure and using high-SPF sunscreen.
• Following a gentle skincare routine to support healing.
• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

Combining a Facelift with Other Procedures

For enhanced results, many patients combine a facelift with complementary procedures, such as:

• Necklift: Addresses sagging skin and muscle bands in the neck.
• Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Rejuvenates the upper and lower eyelids.
• Browlift: Lifts a heavy or drooping forehead.
• Facial Fat Grafting: Restores volume to hollow areas like the cheeks or under-eyes.
• Non-Surgical Treatments: Botox or fillers to enhance results.

Dr. Mukami will recommend the best combination based on your goals and facial anatomy.