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Rhytidectomy facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

A facelift (also known as a rhytidectomy) is a type of cosmetic surgery. It is done to make a person's face look younger. This surgery usually involves removing extra skin from the face and neck. This extra skin can cause wrinkles. The remaining skin is then carefully repositioned to look smoother. Sometimes, the deeper tissues under the skin are also tightened. In 2010, over 112,000 facelift procedures were performed in the United States.

What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure. It aims to reduce visible signs of aging on the face and neck. As people get older, their skin can lose its firmness. This leads to wrinkles, sagging skin, and folds. A facelift helps to smooth out these areas. It gives the face a more refreshed and youthful appearance.

Why Do People Get Facelifts?

People choose to have a facelift for several reasons. The main reason is to improve how their face looks as they age. They might want to reduce deep wrinkles around the mouth or nose. They may also want to tighten sagging skin on the jawline or neck. The goal is to look younger and feel more confident.

How Does a Facelift Work?

During a facelift, a surgeon carefully makes small cuts. These cuts are usually hidden in the hairline or around the ears. Then, the surgeon gently lifts and repositions the skin and sometimes the underlying muscles. Any extra skin is removed. The remaining skin is smoothed out and stitched into its new position. This helps to create a firmer, more youthful look.

What Happens After the Surgery?

After a facelift, patients need time to recover. There might be some swelling or bruising. Doctors give instructions on how to care for the face during this time. It takes several weeks for the swelling to go down completely. The final results become more visible as the face heals.

Images for kids

  • Distance cilliary margin orbicularis oculi

    This image shows how the area around the eye can change with age.

  • SMAS Facelift

    This picture shows one way a facelift can be done, by moving and fixing tissues.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Ritidectomía para niños

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