There are many meaningful aspects of the aging process. We develop long lasting relationships, have children and grand children, and create memories that last a lifetime. As we grow older, our outlook changes and we have a more settled, and deeper appreciation of life. Fortunately, we can adopt a healthy lifestyle that through proper nutrition, sleep, and exercise we can prolong our health and promote longevity.

The unfortunate aspect of aging is that it ultimately reveals itself, especially in our faces. Diet and exercise don't really slow the aging process in our faces. Some of us are born with a genetic tendency for youthful faces, but for those of us not so lucky, we have alternatives. One alternative is a plastic surgery procedure called a facelift.

If you have any misgivings about the procedure, know this, there have been great advancements in medical research and surgical techniques over the years that have made facelifts very effective and quite safe. There are hundreds of thousands performed around the world each year. Highly competent plastic surgeons have gained a tremendous amount of experience with the procedure, and have used that experience to elevate it to almost an art form. They offer remarkable and natural results that will take as much as ten years from your face. Fine lines, wrinkles and loose skin are removed giving you a younger looking appearance.

The facelift procedure involves the removal of wrinkles and drooping skin around the facial area. The remaining skin and underlying muscles and tissue are then tightened to create a smoother younger look. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, and either a local or a general anesthetic is used. There will be some swelling and bruising that will subside. Any pain or discomfort after the procedure can be managed with prescription medication. Scars are hidden by the hairline and will fade significantly with time. Prolonged exposure to sunlight should be avoided.

When selecting a facelift surgeon, you may be wondering what to talk about and expect from that initial meeting. During a consultation, you have the ability to learn more about the doctor as well as the procedure. The goal is to get a solid understanding of what to expect from this procedure and to do that, you need to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor. The good news is that this information can help you to feel good about going through with the procedure.