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Facelift Q&A


What is a facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure that restores your youthful facial contours by lifting and tightening the skin. 

As you age, your skin loses collagen. This protein keeps your skin firm, tight, and supple. When collagen levels deplete, the skin thins and sags, causing the fat and tissue underneath to drop and collect around the jawline. 

By removing excess skin and repositioning the tissue beneath, facelift surgery elevates the lower face and neck to take years off your appearance.

Facelift vs. mini facelift. What is the difference?

Choosing between a traditional and mini facelift depends on many factors, including your:

  • Extent of aging and skin laxity
  • Desired level of improvement 
  • Overall health and medical history
  • Budget 

Each type has unique benefits and drawbacks for different patients:

Traditional facelift

Conventional facelift surgery uses incisions around the ears to remove excess skin and elevate the lower facial tissues.

Mini facelift

A mini facelift procedure uses smaller, more discreet incisions behind the ears, targeting minimal sagging in the lower face. The procedure is less invasive and has a quicker recovery time, but it’s more suitable for patients in their late 30s to early 50s.

Who should consider facelift surgery?

Facelift surgery may be right for you if you have:

  • Sagging facial skin
  • Deep wrinkles and folds
  • Loss of facial volume
  • Jowls or a double chin
  • A desire for a more youthful appearance
  • A desire for long-lasting results
  • Realistic expectations about the outcomes
  • Good overall health and nonsmoking habits

After assessing your medical history, concerns and goals, and skin laxity, Dr. Elnekaveh can determine whether you’re an ideal facelift candidate.

How can I prepare for my facelift?

You can take many steps to prepare for facelift surgery, including:

  • Following pre-op instructions, including medication and lifestyle changes
  • Arranging for a responsible companion on surgery day
  • Discontinuing certain medications and supplements as advised
  • Attending pre-op appointments and medical evaluations
  • Sharing your medical history, allergies, and health conditions
  • Setting up a clean, comfortable recovery space at home
  • Planning for downtime 
  • Maintaining hydration, a healthy diet, and minimal sun exposure

Dr. Elnekaveh may also provide personalized pre-op recommendations based on your medical history.

How long does facelift surgery take?

The duration of facelift surgery can vary depending on the technique used, the extent of the procedure, and your individual needs. Most traditional facelifts take about 2-4 hours.

How long is the recovery time after a facelift?

You can expect swelling and bruising from a facelift to subside within 3-4 weeks, and then you can resume most of your regular activities. Final results typically appear within three months, but it can take three more months for your skin and underlying tissues to fully heal.

Call Dr. Brandon Plastic Surgery today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.