Facelifts are still growing in popularity, and for good reason—facelift results can be powerful and last far longer than those achieved with minimally invasive procedures.
If you are contemplating a facelift, here are answers to questions I hear most often.
1. Who is a good candidate for a facelift?
There is no set age or profile. Factors to consider include age, body type and size.
2. What type of facelift is best?
It is more important to find the right surgeon rather than choose your own preferred technique.
If you like the results of facelifts done by a certain surgeon, then you are on the road to obtaining the results you want.
3. How long does the surgery take and what is the recovery time?
Standard facelifts usually take 3-4 hours. Recovery times differ, but in general, noticeable swelling will go down within 10 to 14 days. Try to schedule surgery about a month before any special events.
4. How will I look different?
My patients often report feeling that they look refreshed rather than “different” or “operated on”, which I achieve by shifting more of the facial tissue than just superficial layers (which can create the “pulled” or obviously “lifted” look).
5. What should I look for in a plastic surgeon?
Look carefully at patient examples from the surgeon you are considering, so that you and your surgeon have the same understanding of how much will really change. Always ensure that your surgeon specializes in the face and, is certified by an accredited medical board such as the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
6. What are the risks?
Like any surgery, facelift procedures carry some risks, including infection and hematoma. The incidence of these risks relates closely to the surgeon’s skills, though there are small but real risks even in the best surgeon’s operating room.
7. I want to lose a few pounds, should I wait to have my facelift?
Ideally, a patient should be in the best possible health and shape possible before any surgery. A few pounds will not make much of a difference but for more than a few, wait until you feel comfortable with your weight before planning your surgery.
8. How long will the effects of a facelift last VS. fillers?
Facelift results will last for years, though the longevity depends on several factors including skin quality, significant weight changes, and environmental factors (e.g. excessive sun exposure).
Fillers are temporary solutions for adding volume to deflated tissues, and typically last for months rather than years—but they can be complementary to facelifts.
9. Should I consider another procedure in conjunction with my facelift?
Eyelid surgeries are most frequently performed with facelifts. Be advised that the additional procedure will add a bit more discomfort and can lengthen recovery time.
10. What is the difference between facelifts, neck lifts and mini-lifts?
Plastic surgeons say “facelift” to refer to a procedure that impacts the cheeks, jowl and neck.
A neck lift addresses neck skin redundancy or deformity. Mini-lifts are usually done for patients who have more minor concerns about their cheeks and jowl, or to refresh a previous facelift.
