Also known as a rhytidectomy (literally, the “excision of wrinkles”), a facelift addresses the effects of aging by reducing sagging skin and soft tissue, wrinkles, and creases, ultimately restoring a more vibrant and youthful appearance. We often combine facelifts with a blepharoplasty, a brow lift, fat grafting, submental liposuction, and/or non-surgical skin treatments to comprehensively address the unique needs of each patient.
Real Patient Results
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Who is an ideal candidate for a facelift?
Facelifts are ideal for those who are seeking a comprehensive solution to combat the signs of aging around the middle and lower areas of the face. If you’ve noticed skin laxity, deep creases, nasolabial folds, jowling or sagging around your face and neck, you could be an excellent candidate for a facelift. The ideal candidate will still have some elasticity to their skin and should be in good overall health. You must be a non-smoker, and ideally on a good skin care program. During your consultation, we will assess your unique features and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs. You will have a consultation with both the surgeon and the non-surgical team so we can optimize your skin to achieve the best results.
What will my facelift surgery be like?
Facelift surgery is performed under monitored sedation in our fully accredited in-house operating facility and can take 3-6 hours depending on your personal treatment plan. Our skilled surgeons will make discreet incisions to allow access to the underlying tissues and gently lift and reposition them. Facelift incisions typically run in front of the ear, behind the ear, and into the hairline. A small incision under the chin may also be needed to correct platysmal (neck) banding and/or to perform liposuction. Your surgeon may ask you to stay overnight at the adjoined Parkside Hotel and will discuss this with you in advance if applicable.
How long is the recovery from a facelift?
Recovery is a critical phase of your facelift journey. You can expect some swelling and bruising, which are natural parts of the healing process. We will see you again in-clinic for postoperative care with our nurses, typically 1-2 weeks after surgery and subsequently as needed to support your recovery journey. Although camouflage makeup can help to conceal bruising, most patients are away from work for 2-3 weeks after their surgery. For patients who would like to keep their surgical decision confidential, we suggest allowing for at least 21 days after surgery before returning to work and social engagements.
Any strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, or activities where your head is below your heart should be avoided for 3-4 weeks after surgery. Our team will guide you through the recovery period and provide recommendations for post-operative care, including exercise and wearing any necessary post-op garments. While you’ll need to take it easy during the initial stages, you’ll gradually regain your mobility and return to your regular activities.
As with any surgery, the healing process can vary from patient to patient and your final results will depend on many individual factors. It is important to be patient with your body and allow yourself time to rest and recuperate.
Vectra® 3D Results
Your Questions Answered
We strive to ensure our patients are thoroughly informed and equipped with the resources they need to make the best decision for themselves. Your consultation will include a discussion of your health history, your goals, education on your procedure(s) of interest, and a detailed explanation of potential benefits, risks, and complications. Your surgeon will perform a full exam of the proposed surgical area. You will have the opportunity to explore your potential results using our advanced VECTRA® 3D simulation technology. We will also perform a skin analysis using VISIA® technology to inform our recommendations for enhancing your results. For more information, you can also review our guide to the surgical process from consultation to recovery.
Following an assessment by our experienced medical aesthetics team, we may advise you to begin a medical-grade skincare regimen at least 4-6 weeks prior to surgery. A key component of this regimen will be to shield your skin from sunburn and damage by applying sunscreen daily.
You will need to ensure a reliable adult is available to drive you to and from your procedure and to support you full-time for the first three to five days of recovery. We recommend having someone available to drive you to your post-op appointment(s).
As with any procedure, post-operative complications after a facelift are rare but possible. These may include bleeding (hematoma), infection, asymmetry, delayed healing, unsatisfactory scarring, and facial nerve weakness. Our skilled surgical team prioritizes patient safety and meticulously works to minimize these risks. You may experience altered sensations such as numbness or tingling for several weeks or months, which are normal and should resolve with time.
When it comes to facial surgery, the most impactful results are often achieved when we combine surgical intervention with regular medical aesthetic treatments and a consistent skincare regimen. As a patient of Clinic 805, we’ll make recommendations for any adjuncts we feel will enhance and preserve your surgical results. These could include laser or light therapies, neuromodulator or dermal filler injections, and customized skincare. You can learn more about our holistic approach to facial surgery on our blog.