Though facelifts are an already-popular cosmetic surgery option for women, many men also choose to pursue this operation. A male facelift aims to rejuvenate the face, smooth sagging skin, and enhance the definition of masculine facial contours.
However, you may be wondering what the differences are between a male and female facelift. Since male anatomy, specifically facial tissue, skin, and muscles, differs from women’s, the specific surgical technique that Dr. Steele will use varies depending on the gender of the patient. He can further explain this form of male plastic surgery and explain how it differs from an operation on a woman’s face.
Typically, facelift patients pursue the surgery to reduce facial wrinkles and sagging skin to create a younger, more rejuvenated facial appearance. However, a facelift operation aimed at a male patient helps create a more masculine facial appearance by enhancing facial contours and definition. For example, many men expect this operation to sharpen their jawline, a trait that is typically viewed as attractive and masculine.
Additionally, a facelift personalized for a male patient could reduce the appearance of a double chin, further enhancing the jawline. Finally, surgically eliminating skin folds makes it easier for male facelift patients to shave their faces properly.
A knowledgeable surgeon like Dr. Steele will assess a male patient’s physical appearance and underlying medical history to determine whether a facelift is the proper operation for the patient. In some cases, patients with early aging changes will benefit from a less aggressive procedure such as FaceTite or Morpheus8.
The details of the facelift surgery usually differ for male patients due to genetics and more masculine facial features. For example, men generally have more prominent bone structures than women, which could influence how a surgeon adjusts skin, muscles, and fat. Additionally, women have thinner facial skin, muscles, and connective tissue than men, which increases the risk of a stretched appearance after surgery. This means that a physician will have to adjust their technique accordingly.
Furthermore, male body fat is more fibrous than female fat, making it more challenging to remove during a facelift or liposuction treatment. Therefore, it is more difficult to remove fat or adjust muscular structures. Finally, since many men have facial hair, a physician will usually have to adjust the location of their incisions to prevent damage to hear-bearing skin cells. For example, incisions go in front of the ear and along the hairline to avoid distortion of the male sideburn.
Dr. Steele understands how technique needs to be adjusted for male patients and can make sure to take the proper precautions while performing a facelift on a man.
Good candidates for a facelift meet several criteria. They typically experience signs of aging that cannot be fully addressed using non-surgical treatments. For example, they may have sagging skin, deep wrinkles, or a loss of muscle tone that contributes to sagging skin along the face, neck, and jowls, producing a tired or more aged appearance. The best results are often achieved on men who have skin with some flexibility and elasticity.
Optimal candidates are in good physical health without medical conditions that might slow healing or increase the risk of complications, including smoking. Men should stop smoking at least four weeks before and after surgery. This includes any tobacco product or nicotine delivery system, such as vaping, nicotine gum, and nicotine patches.
Men with realistic expectations and an understanding of the potential outcomes and limitations of facelift surgery are typically happier with the results. After your facelift, you should maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, which can help enhance the results and longevity of the surgical procedure.
Dr. Steele performs male facelifts in an accredited outpatient surgery center. His approach to the facelift depends on changes to the skin and muscle as well as the surgical procedure and desired results. Recovery varies between patients and depends on the type of procedures they had. However, recovery generally follows a predictable timeline. After surgery, you will be discharged with postoperative instructions that should be followed closely to reduce the risk of postoperative complications, including infection.
Some swelling and discomfort are normal and can be managed by keeping your head elevated while sleeping and using cold compresses to reduce the swelling. Within the first week, Dr. Steele will remove any stitches or drains placed during your surgery at your follow-up appointment. You will be advised to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise until you are released, about six weeks after surgery. This will help prevent bleeding and wound separation.
During recovery, you must protect your skin from sun exposure. Depending on the nature of the job and the extent of the surgery, male patients are typically able to return to work within one to two weeks after a facelift. Most men also need time to adjust to the immediate changes in their appearance and the waiting time for the final results as swelling decreases. It is important to openly communicate with Dr. Steele, who can provide reassurance and support during your recovery.
Just like when performed on a female patient, a male facelift removes and reshapes excess fat and skin from the face and neck to help a man feel more confident in their appearance. However, since male patients have a different physical composition than female patients, the surgery requires more precision for ideal results. Dr. Steele can address any questions or concerns that you might have about this powerful surgical option, so contact the office today to schedule an appointment.
