The Basics of the "Lunchtime Facelift"

As we age, delicate facial skin begins to lose elasticity, leading to fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. In the past, undergoing a facelift was an invasive procedure that frequently required weeks of healing and months to finally reach the desired results. Today’s cosmetic surgery consumers want faster solutions that still generate great results. Thanks to what is known as a “lunchtime facelift,” consumers can enjoy a fresh look without devoted weeks to recovering from a major surgery.

What is a “Lunchtime Facelift”?

The term “lunchtime facelift” actually refers to a procedure called a thread face lift. This surgery utilizes sutures to lift sagging skin around the eyes, nose, mouth and neck. Unlike traditional face lifts, which require a large incision that can create significant scarring, a thread face lift utilizes tiny incisions that are barely noticeable. The entire procedure can generally be performed in under an hour. Traditional face lift patients receive general anesthesia during their surgeries, but thread lift patients typically only need local anesthesia.

Should You Consider a Thread Face Lift?

Before you decide if the “lunchtime facelift” is right for you, it is important to spend some time considering your own needs and goals. Because a thread face lift is minimally invasive, it is most appropriate for people with minimal wrinkling, sagging and sun damage. If you had deep wrinkles or a lot of loose, sagging skin, a more traditional face lift may be a more effective option.

Also consider some of the many benefits of this type of face lift surgery. A thread lift offers a much shorter recovery time than a traditional lift, making it much easier to return to your normal daily activities. A thread lift is generally much cheaper than an invasive face lift, which makes a “lunchtime facelift” a great option for people who are on a tight budget or just those who are concerned with face lift cost.

Understanding the Risks

While a thread lift is less invasive, this does not mean it is completely free of all risk. In some rare cases, patients can develop infections around the surgery site. However, this complication can usually be treated easily with antibiotics. Another possibility is the risk of scar tissue forming around the incision or sutures.

In addition to these basic risks, patients need to be prepared for various outcomes of the procedure. The best way to have a successful and satisfying thread lift is to keep your expectations realistic. A thread lift cannot eliminate all of the signs of aging, so be sure that you understand the type of results you can expect.

If you are looking for a way to restore a youthful appearance to your face, a “lunchtime facelift” is one possible option. While the best candidates are those with minimal wrinkling and sagging, you should always consult with an experienced plastic surgeon before deciding which surgical choice is right for your needs and goals.

By understanding what this face lift surgery can accomplish as well as the possible face lift costs and benefits, you will have the information you need to make the best possible decision about your face lift procedure.