Operating for the Aging Face

Observations are made about the type of patient who seeks rhytidoplasty (“face-lift”). The surgeon evaluating an individual for this operation may do considerable good or harm depending upon his understanding of the patient's complaints and expectations. In some cases, surgery is contraindicated; in the selection process the surgeon needs to determine the patient's motivation and be willing to reject a candidate or postpone the operation when psychological factors so indicate. The special emotional components involved in the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery and in the hospitalization and postoperative periods are emphasized. Several patient types considered unsuitable candidates for this operation are discussed in detail.