Even though the muscles, tissues and skin are re-positioned as much as possible during the initial Facelift, surgery does not stop the aging process and some tissue relaxation comes over time. A “tuck-up” may be recommended when significant new sagging appears in the facial and neck tissues. The same incisions are usually used as with a Facelift. The “tuck-up” usually requires less surgery than the initial procedure, thus the cost is usually less. The improvement that can be longer lasting because of the initial slack that was removed and the foundation was developed through the original Facelift.

Facts to remember about Facelift and tuck-up procedures:

• Within a few months after surgery, there is some relaxation of the tissues. This is a natural part of the tissues relaxation process and does not mean the lift is “falling”. After the initial relaxation, the tissues usually stabilize for a significant period of time.
• During the initial Facelift, the muscles, tissues and skin are re-positioned as much as possible. The post surgical relaxation does not mean the skin was not pulled tight enough. The skin simply does not have elastic properties that were present during youth.
• There is no magic surgical preventative measure to stop skin relaxation. Age, illness, genetic programming, free radicals, stress, starch intake, hormonal decline, and lifestyle are only a few factors that may impact the aging process. A healthy lifestyle, low starch diet, exercise, vitamins, and antioxidants, and, in some cases, hormone restoration may help.
• The tissues that are removed never return; they are discarded.
• The time period before needing a “tuck-up” varies between patients. It may take a decade in some patients or a year or less in others. Patients, who have significant sagging before surgery, are in their rapid aging phase of life, or who have a hereditary weakness of the elastic properties of their tissues may need a tuck-up within a year. There are also patients who never need a “tuck-up”. In any event, we cannot always predict if or when a “tuck-up” is needed.
• Even though the aging process continues, you never look as old as you would have, had the surgery not been done.
A Facelift “tuck-up” operation does not correct baggy eyelids or upper cheek, high cheek bags, a weak chin, nasal tip droop, droopy eyebrows or the wrinkles around the eyes and/or mouth or other areas of the face as a result of smoking, sun damage, or again. Contact The Langsdon Clinic for your consultation at 901-755-6465.