Facelift in Chattanooga

One of the most requested procedures for facial rejuvenation is the facelift (also known as a rhytidectomy)[1]. Skin that sags or droops around the neck area, a double chin, wrinkled necks, jowls, marionette lines, and neck bands are all signs of aging and are created by gravity, time, heredity, health, and personal habits, like sun tanning and smoking. Dr. Shire provides extensive personal consultations to facelift patients to help him create a personalized facelift treatment plan that will improve their specific concerns and reach their unique aesthetic goals.

Facelift Surgery That Looks Natural

Dr. Shire has developed a facelift technique, including liposuction, which truly provides a natural appearance with less bruising and a shorter recuperation time. Dr. Shire’s facelift surgical techniques preserve the hairline, which will allow you to wear your hair pulled back or up without exposing incision lines, thus eliminating the sequela common to facelift procedures. He uses the hair-sparing incision, which prevents the loss of temple/sideburn hair and the hair behind the ears on the neck. It also does not change the shape or position of the ear or ear lobe and hides all scars so they are not visible. The facelift surgery lifts the deep muscle-fibrous layers of the face and neck and repositions and secures them. Dr. Shire does not need to pull or stretch the skin with this facelift technique that he uses.

Dr. Shire is the author of many publications on facelifts, which includes the chapter “Facelift Incision” in the text Facial Plastic Surgery. To get more information on Facelift Incision, click here.

Facelift Surgery Before and After Photos

To view more Facelift photos, click here.

The Facelift Procedure

Although a facelift can be a relatively involved process, it can usually be broken down into three parts. This includes anesthesia, facelift surgical work[2], and healing and recovery. Before any work is done at all, it’s important you’re in good health and able to undergo a surgical procedure. A completed evaluation of your health will be needed and current lab work is required. To assure you are comfortable and protected an anesthetist may administer intravenous sedation. General anesthesia is not used for the majority of our patients. Our surgery is performed in our own AAAASF and Tennessee State-certified surgical facility.

Facelift surgery is quite common nowadays, but it’s essential to understand the full scope of the surgical procedure. Dr. Shire will spend a great deal of time to completely explain not only the surgical procedures, the risks and possible complications, and the healing and recovery process, but also other options that may be available. The procedure can be catered to a variety of specific outcomes with the help of facial implants, resurfacing techniques, and wrinkle reduction.

Facelift Surgery Recovery

Surgery is performed as an outpatient. There are no drains, no dressings or bandages, and there is no pain – 80% of patients never take any pain medication except Tylenol®. Facelift patients generally look and feel good within a week. Many of them can go out with their friends within 7-10 days.

What to Expect From Facelift Results

Before you get to enjoy the final results of your facelift surgery, you’ll have to go through an aftercare process that’ll be guided by your surgeon. We’ll provide you with any instructions you might need to keep your health in check to allow the surgical site heal as fast as possible. It can take up to 28 to 36 day to heal and you can resume normal, everyday activities. Following your facelift, you may have some temporary swelling and bruising. However, you will feel good and quickly look good, but one must allow the body to heal properly. It’s crucial you follow the doctors post-op instructions and activity limitations to obtain optimal results.

This includes staying out of direct sunlight for extended periods, avoiding rigorous activities, and avoiding smoking and alcohol. It can take around two to three months before your face feels like its usual self regarding sensibility, tightness, and texture.

You can also expect to deal with some swelling and bruising for the first few weeks after your procedure, and the final results should deliver a more youthful appearance. The best way to guarantee stellar results from your facial plastic surgery is by working with a surgeon, like Dr. Shire, with the expertise and a proven track record. In some cases, patients prefer to pair other procedures with a facelift surgery[3] for a more symmetrical outcome.

Excellent
Based on 52 reviews
Mariah Dahl
Mariah Dahl
2023-02-28
Dr. Shire is very knowledgeable and professional. His staff are very attentive and warm.
Rebecca Pellegrin
Rebecca Pellegrin
2022-10-27
Great staff and service! Dr. Shire is the best!!!
Ju-Hsin Lusk
Ju-Hsin Lusk
2022-06-06
When your two best friends travel from Dallas, TX and Atlanta, GA to Chattanooga, TN for Dr. Shire's impeccable surgical skills, you know that Dr. Shire is one of the best facial plastic surgeons. Then, when their physicians and friends back home (Dallas, TX and Atlanta, GA, not exactly small cities without choices) are so utterly amazed of the incredible results and ask for Dr. Shire contact information to make appointments, now there is no doubt that Dr. Shire is THE very best facial plastic surgeon!
Mrs. K
Mrs. K
2022-05-30
Dr. Shire really listens and cares for his patients. He explained everything thoroughly.
Happy Yates Baker
Happy Yates Baker
2022-05-09
What a wonderful office - great assistants, fab service, and the BEST plastic surgeon anywhere around!!! Just perfect! AAAAAAAA++++++

Procedures That Pair Well With a Facelift

There are actually quite a few procedures you can combine with facelift surgery to get a more complete appearance. Many people take this route, so their youthful features mesh together and don’t clash with the textures that come with natural aging. Of course, you’ll want to consult the doctor about your options and expectations, but you have numerous procedures to choose from.

Some of these include:

This is bound to drive up the cost of your procedure, but you’ll be able to enjoy a more overall youthful appearance.  The benefit of having more than one procedure done at one time is that you only have one recovery period. Healing is healing, and it will not lengthen the recovery process. Many patients travel to Chattanooga for the artistic expertise, experience, and completely natural result that Dr. Shire achieves.

The cost will also vary due to a number of reasons, but we work with each patient to structure a cost they can manage. However, it’s important to understand the full scope of the financial commitment you’re walking into, as this can vary depending on the surgeon you’re working with, the location, and more.

How Much Does a Surgical Face Lift Cost?

Across the United States, there’s a good chance a facelift will cost upwards of $20,000 to $100,000 in major metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, New York City, and the like. However, when you get a facelift in Chattanooga, you can enjoy much lower costs with much better results. A good average you can expect is around $8,000,-$10,000 which is much more cost-efficient than many other states in the U.S.

We understand that this can still be seen as an expensive procedure to handle, which is why we help guide each patient into a financial commitment they can manage. Payment plans are standard for costly surgical procedures, and we always find a way to deliver the results each patient hopes for. 

Although $8-10,000 is a decent average you can expect, your procedure may cost more or less depending on the amount of work that needs to be done. This aspect of your operation will be covered during your initial consultation, where you’ll be able to get an answer to any of your questions regarding the cost. Please note like everything else, the costs, fees, supplies can change. 

Facelift Patient Testimonial

When I made the decision to have a facelift, I wanted the best surgeon that I could find. I met with a couple in my home state but was not that impressed. A person I knew in Chattanooga, TN suggested that I talk with Dr. Shire. Over a facetime call, he assessed my face and asked me what I didn’t like about it. He then explained what his procedure would be, as well as the recovery process. That was when I knew that he was the right surgeon for me. He did not suggest more than what I wanted, and he was very particular about my preparation for the surgery and my commitment to follow the post-surgical protocol in order to get the best result.

I met with him the day I arrived in Chattanooga, and he once again, reviewed the process with me. I had the surgery the following day. He, as well as his entire staff and surgical team were kind, encouraging and professional. I stayed in town for about two weeks post-op, and during that time, I saw him three or four times to get stitches removed, have my incisions checked and to reinforce that I was following the post-surgical protocol. By the time I left for home, there was very little bruising or swelling. They even gave me a gift at my last appointment.

When I got home, several people said that I looked rested and happy. No one had any idea that I had had a face lift. That’s the beauty of Dr. Shire. He is an artist. My face looked natural, and that is how a facelift should look! I would highly recommend that before you have any facial plastic surgery done, have a consult with Dr. Shire. It won’t take long to realize what a skilled and compassionate man he is. You will be glad that you took the time to check out his practice.

Ellen M
BREAST AUGMENTATION

Reveal Your Inner Beauty

A successful surgery starts with an effective consultation. For quality facelift surgery in Chattanooga, TN call Dr. Shire’s Chattanooga practice today to schedule a facelift consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Facelift Surgery in Chattanooga

How long does a facelift last?

This question depends on the aging process, which is determined by three things. 1. Your Genetics 2. Your (life) Habitats 3. Your Health, both physical and emotional. And You have no control or ability to change any of them. On average, you can expect the results of your facelifts to last quite a while, as they generally hold up for at least a decade. This is a common average, but it can only be achieved by working with a knowledgeable surgeon who understands what’s required and performs the appropriate procedure. Overall, patients feel the long-lasting results are entirely worth the cost of a facelift.

How painful is a facelift?

Your surgeon will ensure you won’t feel any discomfort during your procedure. However, patients can expect some discomfort when going through the healing process. Most pain is quite minimal, and it’s common for surgeons to prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort. However, 90 percent of Dr. Shire’s patients’ do not even take any Tylenol® .

After your surgery, you can expect to feel swelling, tightness, and itchiness for a week or two, and this is more of a discomfort than actual pain for most people. Some people heal faster than others, but facelifts are known to come with minimal pain that doesn’t last very long.

What is the best facelift procedure?

There are a number of different techniques in face-lifting. They each have advantages and disadvantages. There are deep plane, SMAS flap, and long and short flap and variations on each. The choice of which type of procedure would be best depends on the patient and their particular issues and the surgeon and their expertise. Since so many variables need to be considered, it is important to consult with an experienced expert in facial plastic surgery and look at their results, and if possible speak to a few of the facelift surgeon’s patients. These cosmetic procedures can definitely help. 

What is the best age for a facelift?

Anyone over 30 can pursue the benefits a facelift offers, but they may not be very effective for younger individuals. Many surgeons will suggest that patients between the ages of 35 and 70 are considered to be in the best age range for the procedure. This is mainly because the effects of natural aging are more prominent in this age group. In the same vein, the results a facelift offers will be more apparent. Its intention is to provide a more youthful appearance, which is why it may not be the best option for those who already have a naturally youthful look. On the other hand, if you are in good health and have the desire, there is no age limit on having a successful facelift with excellent results.

Then again, natural aging tends to look different from person to person, and it isn’t necessarily uncommon for those under 35 to opt for a facelift procedure. Your surgeon will always give his two cents on the matter, as pursuing the facelift surgery at an older age makes more sense. The general consensus is that a facelift is a highly effective procedure for anyone over 35, especially if you’re looking for a significant boost in your appearance.

How can I find a qualified plastic surgeon to perform my facelift surgery?

Finding a qualified plastic surgeon for your facelift surgery requires careful research and consideration. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Research reputable sources: Start by researching reputable sources such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). These organizations provide directories of board-certified plastic surgeons in your area.
  2. Verify credentials: Ensure that the facelift surgeon you consider is certified by the ABPS or an equivalent board. Board certification indicates that the surgeon has met rigorous standards of training and experience.
  3. Check experience and specialization: Look for a facelift surgeon with substantial experience and specialization in facial plastic surgery in Chattanooga, TN, particularly facelift procedures. Review their before-and-after photos to assess their previous work.
  4. Read patient reviews: Check online platforms, forums, and social media channels for patient reviews and testimonials. This can give you insight into the experiences of others who have undergone facelift surgery with a particular surgeon.
  5. Schedule consultations: Once you have narrowed down your options, schedule consultations with your selected facelift surgeons. During these consultations, discuss your goals, ask questions, and evaluate the surgeon’s communication style and bedside manner.
  6. Ask for referrals: You may also ask your primary care physician or trusted friends who have had successful cosmetic procedures for recommendations.

Remember, it’s crucial to choose a facelift surgeon who makes you feel comfortable, understands your aesthetic goals, and has a proven track record of successful facelift surgeries.

How do I prepare for facelift surgery?

Preparing for facelift surgery is essential to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

  1. Consultation and medical evaluation: Schedule a consultation with your plastic surgeon to discuss your medical history, medications you’re taking, and any underlying health conditions. They may request medical tests or evaluations to determine your candidacy for surgery.
  2. Quit smoking and avoid certain medications: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and hinder the healing process. It’s important to quit smoking well in advance of your surgery. Additionally, your surgeon will advise you on any medications or supplements to avoid that may interfere with the procedure or recovery.
  3. Arrange for transportation and post-operative care: Plan for someone to drive you to and from the surgical facility on the day of the procedure. You may also need assistance during the initial recovery period, so it’s beneficial to arrange for someone to help you with daily tasks.
  4. Follow pre-operative instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on fasting, hydration, and any necessary skin preparation before the surgery. It’s crucial to follow these guidelines meticulously to minimize the risk of complications.
  5. Arrange for a recovery space: Set up a comfortable recovery space at home with necessary supplies such as extra pillows, ice packs, prescribed medications, and easy-to-prepare meals. Ensure that you have someone available to assist you during the initial days of recovery.
  6. Clear your schedule: Allow yourself enough time for proper recovery and limit your commitments during this period. It’s essential to rest and avoid strenuous activities that could strain the surgical site.

Following your facelift surgeon’s pre-operative instructions diligently will help optimize your safety and enhance your surgical experience.

Will insurance cover facelift surgery?

In most cases, insurance does not cover facelift surgery because it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. Facelift surgery is typically performed to enhance one’s appearance and address signs of aging rather than to treat a medical condition. As a result, it is generally considered a non-medically necessary procedure.

What are the long-term results of facelift surgery?

The long-term results of facelift surgery can vary, but generally, it can effectively address signs of aging and provide a more youthful appearance that can last for around 10 to 15 years. However, ongoing aging, lifestyle choices, and individual factors can influence the longevity of the results. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following post-operative instructions are important for maximizing the long-term benefits of a facelift.

 

Facelift Before & After Gallery

Be sure to view our Facelift Before and After Photo Gallery to see real facelift patient results at Shire Facial Plastic Surgery.

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 References

[1] Ahmed M Hashem, MD and others, Facelift Part I: History, Anatomy, and Clinical Assessment, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 40, Issue 1, January 2020, Pages 1–18, https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjy326

[2] Ahmed M Hashem, MD and others, Facelift Part II: Surgical Techniques and Complications, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 41, Issue 10, October 2021, Pages NP1276–NP1294, https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjab081

[3] The Board of Cosmetic Surgery, Facelift surgery guide: The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, 2023, February 6, https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/face/facelift-guide/