What is a rhytidectomy?
Rhytidectomy is the medical term for a facelift, a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tightens facial tissues to reduce wrinkles and restore a more youthful appearance.
Rhytidectomy comes from the Greek words for wrinkle (rhytis) and excision (ektome), literally describing the removal of wrinkled skin. In practice, it refers to a facelift, where a surgeon makes incisions (typically around the ears and hairline) to access deeper facial structures, remove excess skin, and reposition underlying tissues to create a lifted and tightened appearance.
The procedure varies in scope depending on the patient's goals and anatomy. A traditional facelift addresses the lower face, jawline, and neck. A mid-facelift focuses on the cheeks and upper face. Some surgeons perform a mini-facelift or limited-incision version for patients seeking subtler results or shorter recovery times. Many rhytidectomies are combined with other procedures such as eyelid surgery, brow lifting, or fat transfer to achieve balanced facial rejuvenation.
Rhytidectomy remains one of the most common facial procedures sought in Ontario plastic surgery practices. The term itself is used interchangeably with "facelift" in clinical and consumer contexts, though rhytidectomy is the standard surgical nomenclature. Patients considering this option should consult with a qualified facial plastic surgeon to understand candidacy, surgical technique, recovery, and realistic outcomes for their individual case.