As the face ages, we begin to see the effects of a constant force of gravity coupled with changes in the skin and connective tissue, as well as a loss or redistribution of fat (adipose tissue). These factors lead to the well-known phenomena of jowl formation, deep nasolabial folds, and especially loose, drooping neck tissue (“turkey neck”, “turkey gobbler”, or “waddle”). In some cases, the eyes may become tired, hollow, or sunken-appearing. In some men, a significant loss in the elasticity of the skin makes the face sag, giving a heavy or sad look.

Facelift Procedures

The most distressing part of these changes is that frequently patients do not feel as old as they look – they may be in great shape, with energy and passion, but people still overlook them – at work and socially. Others may ask if they’re tired or not feeling well. Dr. Ransom can address all of these concerns with a variety of techniques specifically designed for men, from non-surgical treatments, to minimally-invasive procedures, to complete surgical rejuvenation.

Rhytidectomy, also known as “facelift” or “face-lift”, is a surgical procedure designed to release and reposition the soft tissues of the face and neck, and to remove excess skin and fat. The combined effect of this procedure is a natural-appearing rejuvenation – restoring the face to a more youthful state while maintaining or accentuating the features of a strong, masculine appearance. Dr. Ransom tailors his facelift approach to the specific anatomy of each patient, and works closely with each individual to satisfy specific goals – all the while making sure that, in the end, “you still look like you”. Depending on the patient’s age, degree of laxity, and other biological factors, patients may undergo a full facelift, or a procedure designed to treat the neck only (see Neck Lift for Men).

Dr. Ransom performs facelifts for men using the latest in surgical approaches and techniques. With this procedure, Dr. Ransom doesn’t just lift the skin (which leads to incomplete correction, an unnatural “wind-swept” or feminine look, and short-lived results) – instead, he lifts the deep connective tissue and muscles of the face and neck. The result is a better, longer-lasting, and more natural-appearing facelift …and a more youthful, vibrant, and healthy-looking you.

The Facelift for Men can be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures (such as upper and lower eyelid lift or chin augmentation). After the procedure, the face will appear puffy or swollen. A soft cotton dressing is used to wrap the face and neck for about 24 hours, after which a light bandage is applied. Some bruising will occur, but pain is limited. Patients are generally able to return to work in about a week, though direct or prolonged sun exposure should be avoided during the healing process. For more information about rhytidectomy for men, please contact Dr. Ransom or schedule your consultation today!

Who is a candidate?

Candidates for a facelift include all patients with loose or sagging skin in the lower face and/or neck region, a drooping or hollow-appearing midface, a poorly defined jawline or prominent jowls, or thick, hanging bands in the neck. The term facelift (or face-lift) can be used by doctors and in the media to imply a wide variety of procedures and approaches. Dr. Ransom tailors his surgical approach to each specific patient, working to achieve the desired goal, and avoiding an “operated” look. In most cases, he performs a deep-plane facelift, which lifts the deep tissues and muscle layers of the face and neck, rather than the skin alone. This makes Dr. Ransom’s patients look natural and avoids the “wind-swept” or “pulled” look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please note that all patients are different and individual healing times and results may vary. The statements regarding procedures and recovery made here are general rules.

Depending on the exact surgical approach needed in your case (mini-facelift vs. full facelift, more or less neck treatment required, etc.), the down time will vary. For most patients, a week off of work is sufficient. Bruising and swelling will occur immediately after the surgery, and begin to resolve around the third day. The majority of this process occurs in the first week, but some patients require up to two weeks for complete resolution. Pain is very minimal. Dr. Ransom works closely with you throughout the postoperative period, making sure that you are making progress toward an excellent result. Further details can be discussed with Dr. Ransom during your confidential consultation.

Yes. Though Dr. Ransom would strongly advise you to quit smoking to improve your overall health, smokers can undergo facelifts. With traditional, older facelift techniques that lift only the skin, plastic surgeons worry that the delicate facial skin will not heal in smokers. However, using the deep-plane technique, Dr. Ransom is able to perform facelifts on smokers with no added risk. This is because the blood supply to the face is preserved in this approach, and better blood supply means better healing. As a side note, Dr. Ransom has a keen interest in helping patients try to quit smoking (tobacco cessation), and has even performed clinical research in this area. He would be happy to discuss this with you during your consultation, and he is able to prescribe medications to help you quit before surgery.

Dr. Evan Ransom is an Ivy League-educated and Ivy League trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is a Double Board Certified Head and Neck Surgeon and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and fellowship-trained in facial plastic, reconstructive, and laser surgery. His practice is in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving patients from San Francisco, Oakland, Marin County, Palo Alto, Silicon Valley, Walnut Creek, the East Bay, and all over Northern California.