Am I too old at 74 to have a facelift? (Photo)

In my practice we routinely perform facelifts on older patients, provided that certain factors are taken into consideration. First, an internist performs a thorough evaluation for medical clearance. Second, the surgery and anesthesia is performed in such a fashion that there is minimal strain on the cardiovascular system.  Local anesthesia and twilight sedation carries the least risk for patients.

There are several different types of facelift techniques that are currently performed by facelift surgeons. The most important factor is that the technique that is used by a facial surgeon will create a youthful, natural with long lasting result. Experience is the key in facial rejuvenation. Vectors of facial tightening vary from patient to patient. For a 45- 50-year-old patient, I would not apply the same vector and tension that I normally apply to a 70-year-old face. In addition, direction of vectors must be modified during secondary or tertiary facelift to avoid artificial look.  I have performed well over 3000 face and neck lifts and published a specific technique that describe the rotational angles and amount of tension that must be applied during SMAS plication to avoid over or under tightening.  A well-performed neck lift during facial rejuvenation is the paramount in a youthful-appearing face. I apply gradual tension on my SMAS as follow: starting at temple area there is only 20-30% tension on muscle plication, once at the jawlines the muscle is tightened 100%. This prevent pulled looked at the corner of mouth. In neck area the muscle must be tighten with greater tension than 100%, depending on the neck laxity.  Look at the doctor’s before and after pictures, a talented and experienced facelift surgeon will have a smooth and well-contoured neck that enhances the facelift results.  There is no substitute in experience and artistic eyes.

Thanks for your question.  Based on your picture, it appears you have genetics on your side.  The age of a facelift patients isn't as important as their general health and health history.  When undergoing any surgery, it's important to be healthy to avoid complications, adverse results or a prolonged recovery.  I would recommend you seek a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area who specializes in facelifts and facial rejuvenation.  Be sure to ask to see before and after pictures of previous patients for examples of their work.Best of luck.Dr. Philip Solomon, Solomon Facial Plastic, Toronto, Canada

First of all, I have to say you look amazing at 74. This is no doubt a result of a healthy lifestyle, so congratulations! As for age and surgical risk, I look more at a patients overall health rather than at the chronological age. As you know, some people in their 70's are very healthy, and others not so much. As long as a person is healthy from a cardiopulmonary standpoint and doesn't have any other risk factors, I would have few reservations in proceeding with a facelift surgery at your age.