What is Facelift?

A FaceLift, or Rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that repositions the skin and soft tissues of the face that have been affected by the aging process. A facelift is intended to give the patient a more rested and youthful contour to the face. A facelift can only be performed surgically. Non-surgical rejuvenation treatments cannot achieve the same results.


Am I a Candidate for Face Lift?

You may be candidate for a facelift if you have experienced a loss of skin elasticity and muscle tone of the face. A facelift is also desirable if you are showing the signs of aging with the development of jowls and deep creases creating frown lines. Facelift may also be helpful if you believe you have a tired facial appearance. A facelift is a highly individualized procedure. An ideal candidate for a facelift is also one who:

  • Is physically healthy
  • Is a non-smoker
  • Has a positive outlook and realistic expectations

Signs of Facial Aging

How is a FaceLift Performed?

Facelifts range in size from "mini" to "mid" to “full” depending on location and extent of skin laxity. Most facelift procedures are done on an outpatient basis. Incisions are made along the ear, extending down around the earlobe, and ending behind the ear. The subcutaneous layers and facial muscles are tightened, the facial skin is re-draped and lifted, and the excess skin is removed.

The patient goes home with head and neck wrapped in dressings, which are usually removed in 1-5 days. Minimal initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication and ice compresses. Sutures are usually removed within 7 - 14 days. Bruising and swelling will decrease over 7-14 days.

How long will my facelift last?

Your facelift should last as long as you maintain proper skincare. However, no surgical procedure can prevent or stop the aging process. Maintaining an ideal weight, staying healthy, and daily attention to skincare can help your facelift last for years to come.

Can facelift help smokers’ lines?

Facelift can help, but very little regarding the mouth area. Facelift helps with the rhytids outside of the mouth, but for the lip lines, most facelift surgeons may recommend fat injections or other facial fillers to address volume lost with aging.

Can facelift remove acne scars?

In many cases, a facelift can help with the appearance of acne scars. Tightening the skin helps by putting that skin under tension, but not too much tension. In conjunction with facelift, undermining the acne scar and injecting fat or filler into each scar may be recommended since the scar is not only scar tissue, but loss of volume.

How long does a facelift last?

Facelift results only last if you don't continue to age. Unfortunately, facelifts do not slow down or stop the aging process. Facial volume loss continues as we age, and weight loss or weight gain after a facelift can affect facelift results. Most facelift patients return for a "tuck-up" or mini-facelift procedure at about 8-12 years after their first facelift.

Will facelift help the neck?

Depending on your specific facial surgery goals, your facelift surgeon may also recommend an additional procedure known as neck lift. Most facelifts do address the neck area, but some patients may present with excessive neck sagging and loose skin requiring additional lift and tightening.


Faceliftology® Resources:

Preparing for Facelift

Helpful tips & information to help you prepare for facelift surgery.
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Find A Facelift Surgeon

Helpful tips to help you find a qualified & board certified facelift surgeon.
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Facelift Recovery

The web's top resource for facelift recovery information and tips.
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After working over two decades in the plastic surgery industry, one procedure continues to stand out as the most misunderstood cosmetic procedure: facelift. The facelift industry is witness to a variety of marketing tactics and surgical factories. Many experience nice results, while many become another number in the pre-operative holding area. Regardless of who you are, one thing is for certain when it comes to facelift: no one wants to buy a facelift like it’s a used car. Our goal is to help the prospective facelift patient become empowered with information and help you find the best facelift surgeon for you. Welcome to Faceliftology!

Pamela Howard, Founder