For a couple years I researched procedures to get rid of jowls and a badly drooping neck When, at age 77, I decided facelift surgery was the only way to get the results I wanted, I began to research doctors. It took about 18 months to find Dr. Rice. I live in the Bay Area and found the price range to be quite high, with the highest being $17,000. I was willing to go a bit further afield and was able to get really excellent expertise for $9,500. The Esthetics Center in El Dorado Hills, CA, exceeded my expectations. The place itself is stylish, extremely clean, pleasant and bright, and the staff are all warm, caring, friendly and above all, highly competent. I knew from our consultation that Dr. Rice was the doctor I could trust. He took his time, answered all my many questions, was good humored, kind and confident. He understood perfectly that I did not want to look "overdone." The procedure went really well. The aftercare was excellent. Now, six weeks later, I'm so glad I chose Dr. Rice and the Esthetics Center. I recommend Dr. Rice and his staff without reservation. You will be in expert, completely safe hands if you go there.
My takeaway advice for anyone having a facelift is---First, be in excellent health. I don't smoke, drink rarely, exercise a lot, and watch my diet. Before surgery I cut out most salt and sugar. The Esthetics Center provided me with multi-vitamins, bromelain, arnica, some other useful products, and very precise, helpful instructions. I had very minimal swelling and bruising, and really, very little pain. Discomfort, yes, and numbness, but very manageable.
I was concerned about being able to sleep on my back, but found I was able to train myself several weeks before the procedure to do that. I now sleep on my back always, with no problems.