Facelift
Surgery (Rhytidectomy)
Transform yourself with
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Overview
What is a facelift (rhytidectomy)?
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to tighten sagging skin, smooth deep wrinkles, and redefine facial contours for a more youthful and refreshed appearance. This procedure lifts and repositions facial tissues, removes excess skin, and enhances jawline and cheek definition, reversing the signs of aging.
A facelift primarily addresses:
- Sagging skin in the lower face, jawline, and neck.
- Deep wrinkles and folds around the nose and mouth (nasolabial folds, marionette lines).
- Loss of facial volume, leading to hollow cheeks or jowling.
- Loose neck skin and muscle banding (“turkey neck”).
Modern facelift techniques provide natural-looking, long-lasting results by restoring firmness, definition, and youthful contours without an over-pulled appearance.
How does a facelift improve facial appearance?
A facelift enhances facial structure by:
- Tightening and lifting sagging skin and muscles.
- Smoothing deep creases and wrinkles.
- Restoring lost facial volume for a youthful look.
- Sharpening the jawline and reducing jowls.
- Eliminating excess skin and fat from the neck for a firmer profile.
How common is facelift surgery?
Facelift surgery is one of the most popular anti-aging cosmetic procedures, with thousands of patients choosing it annually for long-lasting facial rejuvenation. Advances in facelift techniques allow for customized, minimally invasive approaches that produce natural and youthful results.
Who is a good candidate for a facelift?
The ideal candidate for a facelift:
- Has noticeable sagging skin, deep wrinkles, or jowling.
- Wants a more youthful, refreshed appearance without looking unnatural.
- Has good skin elasticity and a strong bone structure for optimal results.
- Is at a stable weight and in good overall health.
- Does not smoke or is willing to quit before and after surgery.
While a facelift improves moderate to severe signs of aging, it does not address fine lines, sun damage, or skin texture—these concerns are better treated with lasers, microneedling, or chemical peels.
Procedure Details
Types of Facelift Surgery
Facelifts are highly customizable, with different techniques designed to address specific areas of aging.
1. Mini Facelift (“Short Scar Facelift”)
- Uses smaller incisions around the ears to lift sagging skin.
- Ideal for younger patients with mild skin laxity.
- Offers quicker recovery and minimal scarring.
2. Full Facelift (Traditional Facelift)
- Incisions extend around the ears, hairline, and sometimes under the chin.
- Best for moderate to severe facial aging.
- Tightens deep facial muscles and removes excess skin for a dramatic yet natural result.
3. Deep Plane Facelift
- Lifts and repositions deep facial structures (SMAS layer) for a more long-lasting, natural lift.
- Ideal for patients with advanced aging and heavy sagging.
- Produces the most youthful, long-lasting results.
4. Neck Lift (Lower Facelift with Neck Tightening)
- Addresses loose skin, muscle banding, and excess fat in the neck.
- Improves double chin, turkey neck, and jawline definition.
- Often combined with a facelift for full lower face and neck rejuvenation.
Additional Enhancements with a Facelift
For the best results, a facelift is often combined with other procedures:
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) – Lifts and tightens sagging upper and lower eyelids.
- Fat Transfer – Restores lost volume in the cheeks, temples, and under-eyes.
- Laser Resurfacing – Improves skin tone, texture, and sun damage.
- Brow Lift – Elevates the brows and reduces forehead wrinkles.
What happens before facelift surgery?
Before surgery, patients must:
- Have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best technique.
- Stop smoking and avoid certain medications that can increase bleeding.
- Plan for post-surgical recovery, including time off work and assistance at home.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to promote optimal healing.
What happens during facelift surgery?
A facelift is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation and typically takes 3–5 hours, depending on the technique.
The general steps include:
- Incision Placement – The surgeon makes incisions along the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes under the chin.
- Lifting and Tightening – The underlying muscles and connective tissue (SMAS layer) are repositioned for a natural lift.
- Fat Redistribution and Skin Removal – Excess skin is removed, and fat may be repositioned or injected for a youthful contour.
- Surgical Closure – The incisions are sutured carefully to ensure minimal scarring.
- Dressings and Compression Garments – Applied to reduce swelling and support healing.
Risks / Benefits
What are the benefits of a facelift?
A facelift provides long-term, dramatic rejuvenation, including:
- A lifted, firmer facial contour.
- Smoother skin with fewer wrinkles and deep folds.
- Restoration of a youthful jawline and neck definition.
- Natural-looking, long-lasting results (10+ years).
- Boosted confidence and a refreshed appearance.
What are the risks of facelift surgery?
While facelifts are safe and highly effective, potential risks include:
- Temporary swelling and bruising – Common in the first few weeks.
- Scarring – Incisions are strategically placed to be minimally visible.
- Nerve injury – Rare, but may cause temporary weakness or numbness.
- Hematoma (blood accumulation) – Can require additional drainage.
- Slight asymmetry – Minor variations in healing and facial movement.
Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon reduces risks and ensures natural-looking results.
Recovery and Outlook
How long does recovery take after a facelift?
Recovery varies by facelift technique, but general timelines include:
- First 3–5 days – Swelling, bruising, and tightness. Patients must keep their head elevated.
- Week 1–2 – Most swelling subsides, and stitches are removed. Patients may resume light activities.
- Weeks 3–4 – Results become more defined as swelling continues to decrease.
- Months 3–6 – Final results are visible, with a natural, youthful facial contour.
Patients should avoid strenuous exercise, sun exposure, and alcohol for the first few weeks to optimize healing.
How long do facelift results last?
Facelift results typically last 10+ years, but longevity depends on:
- Genetics and skin quality.
- Sun protection and skincare maintenance.
- Healthy lifestyle and weight stability.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Many patients combine a facelift with other facial enhancements, including:
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) – Corrects sagging eyelids and under-eye bags.
- Brow Lift – Elevates drooping brows and smooths forehead wrinkles.
- Fat Transfer – Adds volume to the cheeks and temples.
- CO2 Laser Resurfacing – Improves skin tone, texture, and fine lines.
Final Thoughts on Facelift Surgery
A facelift is the gold standard for facial rejuvenation, restoring firmness, contour, and youthful definition to the face and neck. With modern techniques, results look more natural than ever, providing a refreshed appearance without looking overly tight.
At BodEvolve, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in customized facelift procedures, ensuring balanced, long-lasting, and natural results.
If you are considering facelift surgery, schedule a consultation today.
Call 817-342-0232 or request an appointment online.