paul howard, md
Board Certified Plastic Surgery Since 1988
(205) 879-6665
Dr. Howard's One Facelift A Day Promise
Dr. Howard's policy is "One Facelift A Day." He pledges this promise to his facelift patients to insure them the most personalized care they deserve. This pledge promises the Facelift Patient top priority on Dr. Howard's schedule for that operating day. The Facelift Patient is his first and only surgical patient for that day.
Rhytidectomy
The plastic surgical procedure designed to reduce the facial manifestations of aging by elevating the loose and sagging tissues of the cheek and neck.
Every person ages differently, and the manifestations of aging become apparent and troublesome at different times during maturity. Therefore, it is difficult for a surgeon to predict when you may need a facelift or predict how long it should last. Many of Dr. Howard's recent developments in face-lifting are designed to obtain a facial improvement that lasts longer and looks more natural than previous facelift techniques.
How Long Does a Facelift Last?
Although plastic surgeons are frequently asked this important question, we still cannot give an absolute answer. Aging depends on many factors, some of which we can control and many of which we cannot. We do know that smoking and sun exposure without sun-block increase facial wrinkling. The answer to this question remains unanswered, but a useful guideline is that your facelift should last at least five years or longer with proper skin care.
Who is a Candidate for a Facelift?
Any man or woman who is physically and mentally healthy may be a facelift candidate. In general, we have no age restriction with regards to face lifting, as long as we realize it is a person's physiological and not chronological age that determines overall health. Obesity may be considered a health problem and many obese people may not be good candidate for facial rejuvenation. In addition, we strongly recommend that patients stop smoking at least one month before facial procedures. Patients who smoke do not heal as well as those who do not smoke. Second-hand smoke can be just has harmful to the healing process as well.
Where are the incisions?
All facelift incisions are designed not only to provide a way to remove excess sagging skin and to elevate the deeper relaxed tissue, but to be as inconspicuous as possible. Incisions are hidden within the hair, or are hidden within the creases around the ear.
What are Ancillary Procedures?
Ancillary Procedures are those extras that may be recommended to enhance your facial rejuvenation. These may include blepharoplasty, endoscopic forehead and brow lift, lip enhancement, nasal tip elevation, earlobe reduction, cheek enhancement, chin enhancement, or laser skin resurfacing.
The Procedure:
The operation is performed at the HealthSouth OutPatient CareCenter and requires approximately 2-4 hours of general anesthesia. At the completion of the operation, a snug head dressing is applied, but is necessary. Drainage tubes also are used to evacuate any fluid or blood that tends to accumulate under the skin. Dr. Howard prefers that all patients stay at the OutPatient CareCenter the first night. A spouse or relative is permitted to stay with you at the facility. A Registered Nurse will care for you through the night. Dr. Howard will release you the following morning.
Post-Operative Care
Patients can expect swelling of the face and eyelids, and some discoloration that may be associated with any type of facial surgery. The discoloration will be most noticeable on the second and third day, and will diminish in approximately three to four weeks. On the first post-operative day, the head bandage and drains (if used) will be removed and a supportive chin strap will be applied. You will be asked to take a shower to wash scalp at soon as you get home from the surgery center. The chin strap should be worn for one week or as directed by Dr. Howard. You will be given pain medication after the procedure as needed. The sutures are removed in five to seven days following your surgery.
At approximately one week after surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience temporary depression, facial "tightness," some numbness, and mild swelling. Patients may be able to wear make-up approximately ten days after surgery. Although bruising is still visible, Dr. Howard's staff can assist you with advanced coverage techniques.
Dr. Howard's Dedication to YOU!
Dr. Howard is dedicated to providing the best care possible to his patients. In addition to his "One Facelift A Day" promise, Dr. Howard provides all the essential products you will need to care for yourself post-operative facelift. This kit comes complete with healing ointment, cotton swabs, straws, mouthwash, gauze sponges, peroxide, sunglasses, hat with detachable scarf, small toothbrush, baby shampoo, chap-stick, eye-drops, and more! Two weeks prior to your scheduled surgery date, Dr. Howard's staff will educate you about your post-operative care, and start you on specialized healing supplements by VitaMedica®.
Patient shown is 6 months post-operative facelift,
browlift, blepharoplasty,
and full face laser resurfacing.
Why Dr. Howard?
Dr. Howard is a certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with over 18 years of experience. Dr. Howard's credentials surpass the usual expectations. He has been trained all over the world and continues to seek out the latest techniques in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Howard is Alabama's Glamour Surgeon!! Just check out his professional curriculum vitae to see for yourself:
