A face-lift or rhytidectomy is a cosmetic surgical procedure of the face and neck performed to improve the loose skin that causes wrinkles or rhytids. A face-lift smooths out the loose skin over your face and neck, improving the visible signs of aging and giving you a more youthful appearance.

Undergoing a facelift surgery is a big decision. Hence, utmost care is required in choosing your surgeon and place of surgery, as these two factors impact the outcome of your procedure.
For a better understanding of a facelift, a little knowledge about the anatomy of the face and neck is immensely beneficial. So, here it goes!

Understanding Facial Anatomy

Your face is made up of layers of tissues varying in texture and consistency. These tissue layers overlie the bony skull, which provides the support for and structure of your face. From a cosmetic surgeon’s standpoint, your face is made up of the following components: skin, fat, superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), platysma muscle, Erb’s point (containing important nerves), deep cervical fascia and the retaining ligaments of the face. Mastering the art of tweaking these components in the correct proportion and in an aesthetically pleasing manor is the surgeon’s delight and goal, the reward being the facial improvement that you desire.