A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is designed to deliver long-lasting rejuvenation by tightening underlying facial tissues and removing excess skin. On average, the results of a standard facelift last about 10 to 15 years. More advanced techniques, such as the deep plane facelift, can offer even greater longevity, with many patients enjoying results for 12 to 15 years or longer before considering another procedure2. Less invasive options, like mini facelifts, typically provide results that last around 7 to 10 years.

The duration of facelift results depends on several factors, including the patient’s age at the time of surgery, skin quality, genetics, type of facelift performed, and lifestyle habits such as sun exposure, smoking, and skincare routines While a facelift can significantly turn back the clock, the natural aging process continues, so some gradual changes will occur over time. However, even years after surgery, most patients still look younger than if they had never had the procedure

To maximize and prolong facelift results, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting skin from sun damage, and following a good skincare regimen are essential Some patients choose non-surgical touch-ups, such as fillers or laser treatments, to further enhance and maintain their youthful appearance over time

What Is Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery, medically termed rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the face and neck by tightening sagging skin, smoothing deep wrinkles, and restoring youthful facial contours. The procedure involves repositioning the deeper tissues beneath the skin, removing excess skin, and sometimes sculpting or redistributing fat to create a more refreshed appearance.

Synonyms and Related Terms:
Face-lifting, facial rejuvenation, cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery, SMAS lift, mini facelift, deep plane facelift, neck lift, lower facelift, mid-facelift, thread lift, blepharoplasty, dermatoplasty, eyelift.

What Does a Facelift Treat?

• Sagging cheeks and jowls

• Deep nasolabial folds (smile lines)

• Loose skin and excess fat in the neck (“turkey neck”)

• Loss of jawline definition

• Deep facial creases and wrinkles

Facelift surgery does not fundamentally change your appearance or stop the aging process, but it can “turn back the clock” by 10–15 years, restoring a more youthful and rested look.

History and Evolution of Facelift Surgery

The facelift has evolved dramatically since its inception in the early 1900s. Early procedures focused solely on tightening the skin, often resulting in unnatural, “pulled” appearances. By the mid-20th century, surgeons began addressing the deeper facial structures, leading to more natural and long-lasting results.

Modern advances include:

• SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) Facelift: Targets deeper tissues for a more comprehensive lift.

• Deep Plane Facelift: Releases ligaments and repositions both skin and muscle for the most natural, long-lasting results.

• Mini and Endoscopic Facelifts: Less invasive options with shorter recovery times, ideal for younger patients or those with mild signs of aging.

Why Do People Get a Facelift?

People pursue facelift surgery for various reasons, including:

• To address visible signs of facial aging that skincare, injectables, or non-invasive treatments cannot correct

• To boost self-confidence and self-esteem

• To look as young as they feel, especially in professional or social settings

• To correct hereditary sagging or premature aging

Facelifts are highly individualized and tailored to each patient’s unique facial anatomy and goals.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Facelift Surgery?

Ideal candidates for facelift surgery typically:

• Are in good overall health (no uncontrolled chronic illnesses)

• Do not smoke (smoking impairs healing)

• Have realistic expectations about the outcome

• Are bothered by sagging skin, deep folds, or loss of facial definition

• Have some remaining skin elasticity for optimal results

Age Range:
Most patients are in their 40s to 70s, but age is less important than skin quality and general health.

Types of Facelift Procedures

There are several types of facelift surgeries, each targeting specific areas and concerns. Dr. JW at ABMedi customizes the approach for every patient.

Standard (SMAS) Facelift

The gold standard for moderate to advanced aging, this technique repositions deeper facial tissues (SMAS layer) and removes excess skin for dramatic, long-lasting results.

Deep Plane Facelift

Targets both the skin and deeper facial tissues as a single unit, providing the most natural and comprehensive rejuvenation, especially for severe sagging.

Mini Facelift

A less invasive procedure with smaller incisions, ideal for younger patients or those with mild jowling and early signs of aging. Offers quicker recovery but less dramatic results.

Mid-Facelift

Focuses on the cheeks and under-eye area, lifting sagging tissues to restore youthful fullness.

Neck Lift

Often combined with a facelift, this procedure addresses loose neck skin, excess fat, and muscle banding for a smoother, more defined neck and jawline.

Thread Lift & Liquid Facelift

Minimally invasive alternatives using dissolvable threads or injectables (like fillers and Botox) to lift and rejuvenate the face. Results are temporary and best for early aging changes.

The Facelift Consultation: What to Expect

A thorough consultation with Dr. JW at ABMedi includes:

• Detailed medical history and facial examination

• Discussion of aesthetic goals and expectations

• Review of surgical options, risks, and benefits

• Preoperative instructions (e.g., medication adjustments, smoking cessation)

• Opportunity to ask questions (see FAQ section below)

How Is Facelift Surgery Performed?

Anesthesia

Facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia or deep IV sedation for patient comfort and safety.

Incisions

Incisions are strategically placed:

• Along the hairline, starting at the temples

• Around the front of the ear, hidden in natural folds

• Sometimes under the chin for neck correction

The Surgical Process

1. Skin Separation: The skin is gently lifted from the underlying tissues.

2. SMAS Tightening/Repositioning: Deeper tissues and muscles are repositioned and tightened for a natural lift.

3. Fat Sculpting: Excess fat is removed or redistributed for improved contour.

4. Skin Redraping: The skin is redraped over the new facial structure, and excess is trimmed.

5. Closure: Incisions are closed with fine sutures for minimal scarring.

Duration:
Surgery takes 2–5 hours, depending on the extent of correction and whether other procedures (eyelid surgery, brow lift, fat grafting) are performed simultaneously.

Facelift Recovery: Timeline, Tips, and Expectations

Immediately After Surgery

• Patients go home the same day (outpatient procedure)

• A light compressive head wrap may be applied for 24 hours

• Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common but manageable with medication

First Two Weeks

• Bruising and swelling peak within the first 3 days, then gradually subside

• Most patients return to non-strenuous work and daily routines after 1–2 weeks

• Stitches are removed in 5–10 days

1–3 Months

• Residual swelling continues to decrease

• Incision lines fade and become less noticeable

• Final results are visible within 1–3 months, with ongoing improvement for up to a year

Recovery Tips

• Keep your head elevated and avoid bending or heavy lifting

• Follow all post-op instructions for wound care and medications

• Avoid smoking and excessive sun exposure for optimal healing

Risks, Complications, and How to Avoid Them

Common Risks:

• Hematoma (blood collection under the skin)

• Infection

• Nerve injury (usually temporary)

• Poor scarring or delayed healing

• Hair loss near incision sites

How to Minimize Risks:

• Choose a board-certified, experienced surgeon like Dr. JW at ABMedi

• Follow all pre- and post-operative instructions

• Disclose your full medical history and medications

• Avoid smoking and alcohol before and after surgery

• Consider non-surgical touch-ups (fillers, lasers) as needed

Facelift Surgery vs. Non-Surgical Alternatives

Surgical Facelift

• Most dramatic, long-lasting results

• Addresses deeper tissues and significant sagging

• Longer recovery, higher cost

Non-Surgical Options

• Fillers, Botox, thread lifts, laser resurfacing

• Best for early signs of aging or maintenance

• Less dramatic, shorter-lasting results

• Minimal downtime

Which is right for you?
Dr. JW at ABMedi will help you decide based on your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.

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Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

What signs of aging does a facelift treat?

A facelift addresses sagging skin, deep wrinkles, jowls, and loss of facial definition, especially in the lower face and neck.

Will a facelift make me look unnatural?

Not when performed by a skilled surgeon. Modern techniques focus on restoring natural contours and avoiding the “pulled” look.

How painful is facelift surgery?

Discomfort is minimal and well-managed with medication. Most patients report only mild soreness during recovery.

How soon can I return to work?

Most patients return to non-strenuous work within 1–2 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing.

Are the scars visible?

Incisions are hidden in natural creases and hairlines, and scars fade significantly over time.

Can I combine a facelift with other procedures?

Yes. Eyelid surgery, brow lift, fat grafting, and skin resurfacing are commonly combined with facelift surgery for comprehensive rejuvenation.

What is the difference between a facelift and a neck lift?

A facelift primarily addresses the mid and lower face, while a neck lift focuses on the neck and jawline. The two are often performed together for optimal results.

Choosing the Right Surgeon: Why Dr. JW at ABMedi?

Selecting a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon is the most important decision you’ll make. Dr. JW at ABMedi is renowned for his expertise in advanced facelift techniques, personalized care, and natural-looking results.

Why patients choose Dr. JW:

• Board-certified and fellowship-trained in facial plastic surgery

• Over 15 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures

• Uses the latest surgical innovations for safety and longevity

• Individualized treatment plans for every patient

• Outstanding patient satisfaction and testimonials