Facelift

As we age, our skin loses elasticity, causing it to loosen and sag. We also lose facial tissue and fat, resulting in under-eye bags, a narrower face and deep creases in the lower and mid face. A facelift is a popular cosmetic surgery for men and women to correct these common signs of aging.

Contact us online or call our Plymouth office today at 651-290-7600 for more information about facelift surgery, including pricing. Harrington + Associates Plastic Surgery has helped men and women from Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnetonka, St. Cloud, Wayzata and across Minnesota.

Please note that Dr. Jennifer Harrington does not perform this procedure, but can refer you to a trusted colleague for exceptional care.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Face Lift?

Men and women experiencing noticeable symptoms of age in the lower to mid face can be good candidates for facelift surgery. Some of the most common reasons to consider getting a facelift include:

  • Sagging jowls
  • Deep creases in the lower face
  • Loss of facial tissue
  • Under-eye bags
  • Hollow cheeks

Face Lift Surgery Incisions

Because each facelift is customized for the needs of the individual, the exact location and length of incisions may vary. In general, your surgeon uses the most discreet incision locations possible, hiding the incisions within the hairline and alongside the ears. Through these incisions, your surgeon will gently lift and tighten the skin, as well as reposition facial fatty tissue before closing the incisions.

Your Facelift Procedure

A facelift is a same-day procedure that usually takes from 3 to 4 hours. In some cases, a facelift procedure can take as little as 2 hours, such as when a patient only requires a mini facelift for optimal results. Facelifts are usually performed under general anesthesia.

Facelifts may be performed here in our surgery center. You should arrive at the surgery center 1 hour before your procedure start time. When your facelift is finished, you will need to stay in a recovery room for an additional hour, and a friend or family member should drive you home. An adult will need to stay with you for 24 hours after your surgery.

Depending on your appearance goals and the extent of facial aging, your surgeon may recommend additional procedures to best meet your needs. A facelift is commonly combined with eyelid surgery or a brow lift to address signs of age in the upper face. Many people also combine their facelift with a neck lift to treat distended neck bands and loose neck skin.

Face Lift Recovery

Most people who have a facelift take around 2 weeks away from work and other normal activities. Your surgeon may ask you to use special bandages or creams during your recovery process to optimize healing. Post-surgical swelling and bruising should continue to subside for several weeks. You should also stay out of direct sun exposure for at least 6 months after your procedure to ensure that your incisions heal properly.

While individual experiences vary, final results generally take up to 6 months to fully reveal themselves. It’s important to keep in mind that patients should continue care for their skin with high quality facial products and commit to a healthy lifestyle.

Prior to your facelift, your surgeon will discuss possible risks and complications with you. If you notice any sudden increases in pain or swelling, notify our office immediately.

Facelift FAQs

How do I choose the best facelift plastic surgeon near me?

When searching for a facelift plastic surgeon in your area, asking local friends and family members for referrals is a great place to start. Beyond word-of-mouth referrals, you can also check online reviews, view before and after photos and check medical credentials online to narrow your search. Don’t be afraid to book a consultation with more than one plastic surgeon to help you make a final decision on the best fit for you.

What is the best age to have a facelift?

There is no single best age to get a facelift, though most people who consider facelifts are in their 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s. In many cases, nonsurgical treatments such as dermal fillers, BOTOX® and skin tightening devices can yield sufficient results for men and women in their 20s and 30s. Once these anti-aging treatments no longer produce the dramatic results you are looking for, you might consider a facelift for longer-term and more noticeable results.

How painful is a facelift?

You may experience mild to moderate discomfort in the first few days after your facelift, though many men and women are pleasantly surprised at how little discomfort they feel during their facelift recovery. Most symptoms can be easily managed with prescription or over-the-counter pain medication, as well as by applying cold packs and keeping your head elevated to reduce swelling.
You should not experience any pain or discomfort during your facelift procedure itself, as facelifts are performed under general anesthesia.

When will I see my facelift results?

Initial facelift results may become visible in 3 to 4 weeks after your procedure as swelling and bruising subside. However, it can take 6 months or more for your final facelift results to develop, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see the dramatic outcome you’d expected right away.
Most people plan to take around two week off work and social activities while they recover from a facelift.

How long does a facelift last?

In many cases, a facelift can last for 10 to 15 years before a touch-up procedure or treatment may be necessary. How long your facelift results last will depend on a number of factors, however, including your lifestyle habits. You can help to prolong your facelift results by wearing daily sunscreen, avoiding deliberate tanning, eating antioxidant-rich foods, getting enough rest and drinking plenty of water. Some people choose to add treatments such as fillers, BOTOX or laser skin treatments to their yearly routines to enhance the results of a facelift.

Next Steps

Facelift surgery, when performed by a skilled plastic surgeon, doesn’t have to make you look “done.” If you have questions or would like more information, please contact us online or call our Plymouth office at 651-290-7600 to request your facial surgery consultation and learn more about how to enhance your natural appearance.