Lower Face Lift and CO2 Laser - Henderson, NV

First, let me start by saying I thought I'd never do this. I had every intention of aging naturally and gracefully. But then my neck started getting that "ropey" look. You know, the platysmal bands separating. And I couldn't stand to look at myself in the mirror anymore. Several attempts at non-surgical solutions, and a whole bunch of research later, I found myself in a PS office. When asked what was my top issue, my reply was, of course, my neck. But if I was going to go there, I might as well discuss my skin texture. I wasn't happy with it and hadn't been for a very long time (acne scarring, which just gets worse with the loss of collagen as one ages).
So, after a whole lot of thought, and more research, I decided to have the lower face lift and a CO2 laser procedure.

Some things I did to prepare, which candidates for either, or both, of these procedures might find helpful:
I carefully reviewed every written thing the doctor's office provided me and purchased all the products in advance.
I knew I wouldn't be able to go out for a week following procedure day, so I wanted to make sure I had absolutely everything I might need, from Q-tips to Aquaphor to a bed wedge (available on Amazon) to elevate my head while sleeping. I even stocked up on my favorite foods and made a list of movies I'd like to watch during my downtime (which is a rare treat for me).
Having read a prior review here about a CO2 laser procedure and how the facial hair may increase discomfort, I decided to use Nair on my upper lip about a week before the big day. That was a mistake as I think I overdid it and that was the one area that had the most acute burning sensation post-procedure. (Note to self: Next time, use the hair removal product at least two weeks prior)

Both procedures were performed on the same day under sedation, with local, not general anesthesia, which was one of the reasons I chose my doc. I was awake but calm throughout the procedure. Fortunately, my doc just kept talking in his calm, soothing tone, informing me of everything he was doing and what to expect to feel. It's been a few months now, so I don't remember everything, but I do recall the worst part was the sound of cutting skin (right behind my ears) and the smell of burning (from cauterizing? Or the laser? Don't recall). It was short-lived, though, and not a big deal for me. I only mention it in case that would be a huge deterrent for someone else who would consider a procedure under local anesthesia and sedation. The administration of the local anesthesia was also a bit painful in certain spots, but my doc was very responsive to my feedback about that and very skilled in placement of the needles.

I now believe this is the best decision I've ever made for myself. I have more self-confidence than ever and feel good about going out in the world.

I told exactly one person outside of the doctor's practice my plan and then I waited to see what the reactions from others would be. The most common has been "You look great!". One said "You've lost weight" (not true) and others, even people who know me well have not said a thing (and, yes, they are the type that would comment) - I can only surmise that this means that most people don't see our faults the way we do (obsessing over them, and all). But I now feel like if it makes this much of a
difference in the way a person feels about themselves, the way it does for me, it's worth it. I am very pleased with the results. I would like to do another laser procedure to further improve my skin texture when time and money allows. For now, I'm just enjoying my new and improved self-confidence. Thank you, Doctor Lanfranchi!