How To Choose The Right Type Of Facelift For You

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Dr. Karan Chopra was guided and advised by visionaries of the field with hands-on experience at the esteemed Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD. There he honed his skills in complex facial and orbital reconstructive surgery at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center; completing a dual aesthetic and oculoplastic fellowship with Dr. Mark Codner; and subsequently trained in peripheral nerve surgery with Dr. A. Lee Dellon. At the forefront of advancing cosmetic surgery, his revolutionary techniques and artful hand yield natural-looking results unique to each of his patients. Recognized for his prominent education and training pedigree, Dr. Chopra is revered for his leadership and research in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has authored 53 peer-reviewed research articles and has given over 20 lectures across the U.S.

Self-improvement has taken on a whole new level during these social distancing times. Being home-bound allows us to recover in private or behind masks, sunglasses, and a hat, ushering in changes that will make a lifetime of difference. While quick-fix fillers and laser services are effective, many struggle with frustration over interim results and costly cyclical maintenance. After months of staring into the Zoom camera critiquing their appearance, many are ready for the most effective form of rejuvenation with long-lasting results: a surgical Facelift.

FACELIFT OR FILLERS?

After months of staring into the Zoom camera, people see the need to put their best face forward. For many, seeking ways to improve and enhance their appearance, may start with quick-fix fillers and laser services. While these non-surgical injections effectively fight wrinkles at the skin’s surface, they cannot lift sagging skin or firm and tighten excess skin caused by loss of elasticity due to the natural aging process. One other downside of injections are temporary results, which are expensive to maintain, and in a few years, time can potentially surpass the cost of a facelift.

Dr. Chopra is a partner and surgeon at Gryskweicz Twin Cities Plastic Surgery in Minneapolis, MN. When his patients complain of sagging jowls and a dropping neckline, he knows they are ready for a more effective and permanent form of facial rejuvenation; a surgical Facelift. A John Hopkins trained facial, breast and body plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a fellowship in oculoplastic aesthetics, Dr. Chopra is uniquely skilled in facial contouring and structure to help you achieve a more youthful appearance.

#GOALS

A facelift’s goal is to lift and tighten the lower half of the face, elevate and volumize cheeks, correct sagging jowls, remove excess skin in the upper neck, and build definition in the jawline. One of the most significant benefits of a Facelift is the development of newer techniques that result in a more natural appearance. For decades Facelifts were notorious for their telltale signs of an overly done look with distorted skin, altered hairlines, and visible scarring. However, newer techniques within the Facelift surgical approach focus on correcting sagging skin by going deeper - beyond the dermal layer.

Dr. Chopra works within the SMAS of the facial anatomy, a layer of muscle and fascia located directly below the dermis that externally holds the skin in place. He tailors results based on each patient's individual aesthetic goals by variably altering his surgical technique. This approach allows patients to opt for a soft and subtle refresh to a more substantial restorative result while maintaining their natural facial characteristics, with long-lasting results.

WHAT TYPE OF LIFT IS RIGHT FOR ME?

There are several different types of Facelift surgeries, each with unique benefits, risks, and costs. Dr. Chopra considers several factors, including patient goals, facial features, skin condition, and sagging. Once Dr. Chopra carefully assesses a patient's facial features during a consultation, he can make a procedure recommendation.

During an ENVISIONS consultation with Dr. Chopra, he will recommend a surgical procedure to meet your goals. In addition to providing process details, he'll discuss an artistic treatment strategy alongside risks, benefits, and cost. Dr. Chopra will determine whether he advises a Mini Lift, Full Facelift Short Incision or Full Facelift Long Incision. A Facelift does not address eyes, eyelids, skin texture, or complexion but can be combined with a Facelift to bring more value to an overall restorative outcome.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT POST SURGERY?

The recovery experience depends on the type of procedure/s the patient undergoes. Dr. Chopra will provide you with a personalized recovery timeline and instructions to help your recovery go smoothly. As the face and neck begin to heal, you will begin to appreciate an improved appearance and the many emotional benefits of self-investment.

While recovery varies from person-to-person, bruising and swelling are most substantial 2-3 days post-op, then resolves over the next week. Patients can move around the house on their own and do light household activities the day after surgery. Most take 2 – 3 weeks off before returning to work and are comfortable in public within 2 weeks. Have to hop on a conference call sooner than expected? Use makeup to cover incisions until they completely fade. Dr. Chopra recommends refraining from strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 2 – 3 weeks. Best results are visible in week 6 and beyond.

The amount of scarring that develops depends on the techniques used and your body’s natural healing process. While Dr. Chopra is careful to utilize scarless or seamless-scar techniques, some patients are biologically more prone to visible scarring that will likely fade over time.

SCHEDULE AN EXPERT VIRTUAL CONSULTATION
Dr. Chopra believes Facelift surgery can empower his patients to begin emotional healing and reclaim their youth. Through his extended ENVISIONS consultation, you will discuss history, goals and assess the region with a friendly and caring team. Contact Dr. Chopra and his team today to begin your confidence-boosting journey.

If you're interested in seeing Dr. Karan Chopra as a patient, contact him directly at Gryskiewicz Twin Cities Cosmetic Surgery in Burnsville, MN at 952-435-0177 or by email at Info@TCPlasticSurgery.com. Follow Dr. Chopra on Instagram @karanchopramd

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