A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to address multiple signs of facial aging, including sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of facial volume. By tightening underlying tissues and removing excess skin, the procedure restores a more youthful and refreshed appearance. The results can last for several years, offering a significant improvement in facial contours and boosting overall self-confidence. Here are a few of the long-term benefits of a face lift:
Enhanced Contours
Face lift surgery repositions sagging facial tissues and removes excess skin to address signs of aging. The procedure targets the lower face and neck areas, where gravity and time create the most noticeable changes. Surgeons lift and tighten the underlying SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), creating a more defined jawline and eliminating jowls that develop with age.
The contouring effects become more apparent as swelling subsides over several months. Patients notice improved definition along the jawline and a smoother transition from the face to the neck. These structural improvements maintain their appearance for many years because the procedure addresses the root cause of sagging rather than just surface-level concerns.
Smoother Neck
Neck skin often shows signs of aging earlier than facial skin because it is thinner and moves more frequently. During a facelift, the procedure can extend into the neck to remove excess skin, tighten the platysma muscle, and smooth visible banding. This combination refines the jawline, creates a more even neck contour, and helps restore a natural, balanced profile.
Natural-Looking Results
Modern face lift techniques emphasize subtle, natural results rather than the tight, “pulled” appearance of older methods. By lifting tissues toward their natural descent and repositioning fat pads that have shifted over time, surgeons restore balanced facial contours and youthful volume. This approach refreshes appearance while maintaining natural expressions and individual features.
Procedure Options
A face lift can be combined with other surgical or non-surgical treatments to refresh multiple areas of the face in a single plan. Common combinations include a brow lift or eyelid surgery to lift the upper face, fat grafting to restore volume, or a neck lift to redefine the lower face and neckline. Bringing multiple procedures together allows for a single recovery period, shared anesthesia, and results that appear more harmonious across the entire face.
Face Lift Care
Face lift results can last for many years with proper skincare and maintenance treatments. To support long-term results, patients should follow a consistent skincare routine, protect their skin from sun exposure, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Minor touch-up procedures after several years can help address any new signs of aging.
Recovery from a facelift usually takes several weeks. Most patients return to normal activities within 2–4 days. Full recovery occurs in 2–3 weeks. Following post-operative instructions carefully supports proper healing. Non-surgical treatments, like injectables, can enhance facelift results over time. These treatments address fine lines or volume loss that may appear years after surgery.
Schedule a Professional Consultation Today
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in facial procedures supports the best possible face lift results. These surgeons have specialized training in facial plastic surgery and can evaluate individual anatomy to recommend the most suitable approach. During a consultation, patients discuss goals, review techniques and risks, and examine before-and-after photos to understand potential outcomes. Schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon to explore your options and determine the best plan for your needs.
