Facelift

A surgical facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to improve the visible signs of aging in the face and neck.

About Surgical Facelift

Overview

A surgical facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to improve the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. The procedure involves:

Removing excess facial skin.
Tightening the underlying tissues.
Repositioning skin to create a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

Advantages

Good candidates for a surgical facelift:

Have noticeable sagging or drooping skin in the midface, jowls, or neck.
Deep creases or folds are present in the lower face and neck.
Have lost facial volume and want to restore youthful contours.
Have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure.
They are generally healthy and do not have any medical conditions that may hinder healing.

A surgical facelift is an invasive procedure, typically requiring general anesthesia and a recovery period. Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if a surgical facelift is right for you.

Pros

Dramatic Results: Facelifts address sagging skin, wrinkles, and jowls, providing a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
Long-Lasting Effects: Compared to non-surgical treatments, the results of a facelift can maintain a more youthful look for an extended period.
Customization: Facelifts can be tailored to individual needs, allowing surgeons to target specific areas of concern and achieve personalized results.
Self-Confidence Boost: Many people experience increased self-esteem and confidence following a successful facelift, as they feel more satisfied with their appearance.

Cons

Surgical Risks: Like any surgical procedure, facelifts carry inherent risks, including infection, bleeding, anesthesia complications, scarring, and nerve damage. However, these risks are relatively low when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.
Recovery Time: Facelifts require a significant recovery period, typically involving swelling, bruising, and discomfort that can last several weeks. Patients need to plan accordingly and may need to take time off work or social activities.
Cost: Facelifts can be expensive, with costs varying depending on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, location, facility fees, and additional procedures combined with the facelift.
Limited to Facial Aging: While facelifts can address signs of aging in the face and neck, they do not address other areas like the forehead, eyelids, or skin texture. Additional procedures may be needed to target these areas.

What to Expect

There exist various types of facelift surgeries that are tailored to target specific areas of the face and neck. These types include:

Traditional facelift: This procedure entails incisions made around the ears, hairline, and beneath the chin. The surgeon then lifts the skin from the underlying tissues, tightens the facial and neck muscles, removes excess fat, and repositions the skin in a natural manner. This surgery is typically recommended for individuals seeking significant improvement in facial aging.
SMAS facelift (SMAS rhytidectomy): Focusing on the lower two-thirds of the face, this surgery involves tightening the muscular layer of the face, trimming excess skin and fat in the cheeks and lower face. It is a variation of the traditional facelift.
Deep plane facelift: In this procedure, the surgeon lifts the SMAS, fat, and skin as a single unit, addressing multiple areas of the face simultaneously.
Mid-facelift: Targeting the cheek area, this surgery involves repositioning cheek fat and tightening the skin in that region.
Mini-facelift: Specifically lifting the lower face and neck, this procedure is less invasive and quicker than other facelift surgeries. It is often recommended for younger individuals with early signs of facial sagging.
Cutaneous (skin) facelift: Focusing solely on the skin, these facelifts typically target the neck and lower face.

Recovery

What’s the healing process timeline?

Immediately after surgery: Bandages and dressings will be applied to the incision areas, and a drain may be placed to remove excess fluid. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are expected.
First week: Swelling and bruising will peak during the first few days and gradually subside. Pain and discomfort can be managed with prescribed medications. Stitches or staples are typically removed within the first week.
Two to Three Weeks: The most visible swelling and bruising should resolve by now. Some residual swelling may persist, but it will continue to improve.
Six to Eight Weeks: By this point, most patients feel comfortable returning to their regular routine. However, following the surgeon’s guidelines regarding physical activity and sun exposure is essential.
Long-term: The final results of a facelift may take several months to fully manifest as the tissues settle and any residual swelling subsides. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are crucial for monitoring progress and addressing concerns.

Individual healing experiences can vary. To ensure optimal healing and minimize complications, you must closely follow the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon.

Results

The results of a facelift are not permanent, as the aging process will continue over time. However, a well-performed facelift can provide long-lasting improvements that make you look younger for years.

On average, the results of a facelift can last five to 10 years. This duration varies based on genetics, skin quality, lifestyle choices, and overall health. While a facelift can turn the clock back, it cannot halt the natural aging process.

After the initial rejuvenating effects of a facelift diminish, you will likely still look younger than if you hadn’t undergone the procedure. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing good skincare habits, and protecting your skin from sun damage can help prolong the longevity of your facelift results.

Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess your specific case and provide a more accurate estimate of how long you can expect your facelift results to last.

While a facelift can address sagging skin and moderate to severe facial wrinkles, it may not address all aspects of facial rejuvenation. The need for additional treatments will depend on your individual goals and the extent of facial aging.

Safety Profile

As with any surgical procedure, facelifts come with potential complications. Possible complications include:

1. Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery is a rare but possible complication. Surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk.

2. Infection: Infections can occur post-surgery but are usually treatable with antibiotics. Proper wound care and hygiene are essential to reduce the risk of infection.

3. Hematoma: Occasionally, blood can accumulate under the skin, forming a hematoma. This may require drainage to prevent complications.

4. Nerve injury: Temporary or, in rare cases, permanent damage to facial nerves can lead to numbness, weakness, or changes in facial expressions. Skilled surgeons take precautions to minimize nerve injury risks.

5. Scarring: While efforts are made to minimize scarring, facelifts leave scars. However, skilled surgeons aim to place incisions discreetly and ensure proper wound closure for minimal visibility.

Cost

Price varies by location and skill of the plastic surgeon

Traditional: $7,000 – $35,000
Mini Facelift: $7,500 – $15,000
Mid Facelift/Lower facelift: $7,500 – $20,000
Deep plane facelift: $30,000 – +$100,000

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Find a Facelift provider

Common Conditions

Jowls

Jowls refer to the sagging skin and flesh along the jawline, typically below the cheeks. Jowls can vary in severity,…

Skin Laxity

Skin laxity refers to the loss of elasticity and firmness in the skin. It occurs due to the weakening of…

Volume Restoration

Volume restoration refers to replenishing lost volume in specific areas of the face. As we age, the natural fat pads…

Wrinkles

Wrinkles are visible lines and creases that appear on the skin’s surface due to various factors. They are a natural…