As time passes, factors like gravity, environmental influences, and genetics shape how your skin ages. While you can influence some of these factors—such as frequent weight fluctuations, skincare routines, and sun exposure—others, like the passage of time and genetic predispositions, are beyond your control.
Facial plastic surgery offers a way to significantly alter visible signs of aging or correct facial structures that may be out of balance with the rest of your face. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Charles Chalekson to explore how these procedures can bring about dramatic improvements.
There are specific criteria for each facial plastic surgery procedure, but some general factors determine if you’re a good candidate. The ideal candidate is in good overall health and free from chronic conditions that could increase the risk of complications during or after surgery.
During your consultation, Dr. Chalekson will help you understand what you can realistically expect from facial plastic surgery in Santa Maria and discuss your specific concerns and goals.
While there is no strict age limit, certain procedures are more common at different life stages. For example, rhinoplasty (nose job) is often performed on younger individuals, while facelifts are more common in older adults.
Lastly, the ideal candidate should not smoke or be willing to quit smoking for at least six weeks before and after surgery. Nicotine and smoking increases the risk of complications, impairs healing, and raises the risk of infection. It also slows the production of collagen, a key protein responsible for maintaining your skin’s structure and youthful appearance.
Several facial plastic surgery procedures are available in Santa Maria to address your cosmetic concerns. These procedures can reduce visible signs of aging or enhance specific features that may be troubling you.
A facelift targets the lower face and upper neck, reducing the signs of aging by removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissue, and redraping the skin for a more youthful appearance. This procedure can address sagging skin, deep folds, jowls, and loose neck skin. Initial recovery takes about two to three weeks, with full recovery in six weeks or more.
A neck lift focuses on the neck and jawline, tightening underlying muscles, removing excess skin, and sometimes utilizing liposuction to eliminate fat deposits. This procedure helps define the neck and jaw contours, addressing issues like a double chin or “turkey neck.”
Blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper or lower eyelids. Extra skin across the upper eyelid can make this area feel very heavy and even potentially affect your vision. This procedure smooths the skin around the eyes but does not address dark circles under the eyes.
Rhinoplasty alters the shape and size of the nose, correcting issues like a large nasal tip or dorsal hump. Dr. Chalekson can also correct a deviated septum to improve breathing. Post-surgery, external and internal fixation devices are typically used to stabilize the bone and are removed after one to two weeks.
These procedures, also known as forehead rejuvenation, are performed to elevate drooping brows, reduce wrinkles, and improve frown lines. Repositioning the brow line and tightening underlying tissue helps achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Facial fat grafting involves transferring fat from a donor site on your body, such as the abdomen or thighs, to targeted areas of your face to restore volume. This procedure can address hollow areas under the eyes, deep nasolabial folds, or sunken cheeks and lips. Ideal candidates must have adequate fat stores. Most people can resume normal activity within a week.
The longevity of results from facial plastic surgery varies by procedure:
To prolong the effects of your procedures, it’s essential to follow Dr. Chalekson’s advice, including practicing good skincare, protecting collagen and elastin production, avoiding excessive sun exposure, eating a nutritious diet, and getting adequate sleep.
Facial plastic surgery can lead to significant changes and improvements, but it’s important to determine if it’s the right choice for you. We encourage you to call our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chalekson. Together, you can explore your options, discuss the results you might expect, and learn how long those results may last.
