Facelift: What You Need to Know Before Getting One

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the face and neck by removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissues, and repositioning the skin. A facelift can help reduce the signs of aging, such as sagging, wrinkles, and folds, and give the face a more youthful and refreshed look.

However, a facelift is not a simple or risk-free procedure. It requires careful planning, preparation, and recovery. It also has limitations and potential complications that you should be aware of before deciding to undergo one. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about facelifts, including:

• The benefits and drawbacks of a facelift
• The types and techniques of facelifts
• The costs and financing options for a facelift
• The preparation and procedure of a facelift
• The recovery and aftercare of a facelift
• The risks and complications of a facelift
• The alternatives and complementary procedures to a facelift

The Benefits and Drawbacks of a Facelift

A facelift can offer many benefits for people who are unhappy with the appearance of their face and neck due to aging or other factors. Some of the benefits include:

• Enhancing the contour and shape of the face and neck. A facelift can lift and tighten the sagging skin and muscles of the face and neck, creating a smoother and firmer profile. A facelift can also correct jowls, double chin, deep nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and other facial features that may make you look older or tired.
• Improving the self-esteem and confidence. A facelift can help you feel more comfortable and satisfied with your appearance, which can boost your self-esteem and confidence. A facelift can also make you look more attractive, youthful, and energetic, which can positively affect your personal and professional relationships.
• Achieving long-lasting results. A facelift can provide results that last for several years, depending on your age, skin quality, lifestyle, and maintenance. A facelift can also delay the need for further cosmetic procedures or treatments in the future.

However, a facelift also has some drawbacks that you should consider before opting for one. Some of the drawbacks include:

• The cost. A facelift is an expensive procedure that may not be covered by your health insurance or national health service. The cost of a facelift can vary depending on the type and extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, the anesthesia fees, the facility fees, and other related expenses. According to Healthline, the average cost of a facelift in the United States was $7,467 in 2018¹. In the United Kingdom, according to NHS, the average cost of a facelift ranges from £6,000 to £10,000².
• The recovery time. A facelift is a major surgery that requires several weeks of recovery time. You will need to take time off from work and other activities to rest and heal. You will also need to follow strict postoperative instructions to avoid complications and ensure optimal results. You will experience swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, tightness, itching, scarring, and other side effects during the recovery period.
• The risks and complications. A facelift is not a risk-free procedure. It carries some potential risks and complications that can affect your health and appearance. Some of the risks and complications include infection, bleeding, hematoma (blood collection under the skin), nerve damage (which can cause facial paralysis or numbness), skin necrosis (skin death), hair loss (alopecia), asymmetry (unevenness), poor wound healing (which can lead to wide or visible scars), dissatisfaction with the results (which may require revision surgery), and general anesthesia risks (such as allergic reactions or breathing problems).

The Types and Techniques of Facelifts

There are different types and techniques of facelifts that can address different areas and degrees of facial aging. The type and technique of facelift that is suitable for you will depend on your goals, expectations, anatomy, skin quality, age, budget, and preference. Your surgeon will evaluate your face and neck during your consultation and recommend the best option for you.

Some of the common types and techniques of facelifts include:

• Traditional full facelift. This is the most comprehensive type of facelift that involves lifting and tightening the skin and muscles of the lower two-thirds of the face (from the temples to the chin) as well as the neck. It can correct severe sagging, wrinkles, and folds, and create a dramatic improvement in the facial appearance. A traditional full facelift requires longer incisions that start at the temples, continue along the hairline, around the ears, and end at the lower scalp. It also requires general anesthesia and longer recovery time.
• Mini facelift. This is a less invasive type of facelift that involves lifting and tightening the skin and muscles of the lower third of the face (from the corners of the mouth to the chin). It can correct mild to moderate sagging, wrinkles, and folds, and create a subtle improvement in the facial appearance. A mini facelift requires shorter incisions that start at the temples, continue along the hairline, and end at the earlobes. It can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation and requires shorter recovery time.
• Mid facelift. This is a type of facelift that involves lifting and tightening the skin and muscles of the middle third of the face (from the corners of the eyes to the corners of the mouth). It can correct sagging cheeks, nasolabial folds, and hollows under the eyes, and create a more youthful and refreshed look. A mid facelift requires incisions that are hidden in the hairline, inside the mouth, or inside the lower eyelids. It can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation and requires shorter recovery time.
• Neck lift. This is a type of facelift that involves lifting and tightening the skin and muscles of the neck. It can correct sagging skin, excess fat, muscle bands, and horizontal lines on the neck, and create a more defined and elegant neckline. A neck lift requires incisions that are hidden behind the ears or under the chin. It can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation and requires shorter recovery time.
• Endoscopic facelift. This is a type of facelift that involves using an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) to perform the surgery through small incisions in the scalp or face. The endoscope allows the surgeon to see and manipulate the underlying tissues without making large incisions or cutting through muscles. An endoscopic facelift can address various areas of facial aging, such as forehead, eyebrows, cheeks, midface, or lower face. It can result in less scarring, swelling, bruising, and recovery time than other types of facelifts.
• SMAS facelift. This is a technique of facelift that involves manipulating the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), which is a layer of tissue that covers the facial muscles. The SMAS is responsible for supporting and shaping the facial structures. By lifting, tightening, or repositioning the SMAS, the surgeon can achieve a more natural and long-lasting result than by only pulling the skin. A SMAS facelift can be combined with any type of facelift, such as traditional full facelift, mini facelift, mid facelift, or neck lift.

The Costs and Financing Options for a Facelift

The cost of a facelift can vary widely depending on several factors, such as:

• The type and extent of the procedure
• The surgeon’s experience and reputation
• The geographic location of the clinic
• The anesthesia fees
• The facility fees
• The medication fees
• The postoperative care fees
• The revision surgery fees (if needed)

According to Healthline, the average cost of a facelift in the United States was $7,467 in 2018¹. However, this does not include other expenses that may add up to the total cost of a facelift.

In the United Kingdom, according to NHS, the average cost of a facelift ranges from £6,000 to £10,000². However, this also does not include other expenses that may increase the total cost of a facelift.

Since a facelift is considered an elective cosmetic procedure, it is usually not covered by health insurance or national health service. Therefore, you will have to pay for it out of your own pocket.

However, there are some financing options that can help you afford a facelift, such as:

• Personal savings. This is the most straightforward way to pay for a facelift. You can save up money over time until you have enough to cover the cost of a facelift.
• Credit cards. This is another way to pay for a facelift using your existing credit limit. However, you should be careful about the interest rates and fees that may apply to your credit card transactions.
• Personal loans. This is a way to borrow money from a bank or other lender to pay for a facelift. You will have to repay the loan with interest over a fixed period of time. You will have to meet the eligibility criteria and credit score requirements of the lender.
• Medical financing companies. This is a way to obtain a loan from a company that specializes in financing medical procedures, such as facelifts. You will have to repay the loan with interest over a fixed period of time. You will have to meet the eligibility criteria and credit score requirements of the company.
• Payment plans. This is a way to pay for a facelift in installments over a period of time. You will have to negotiate the terms and conditions of the payment plan with your surgeon or clinic. You may have to pay a deposit or an initial fee before the procedure.
• Before choosing any financing option, you should compare the interest rates, fees, terms, and conditions of different lenders or companies. You should also make sure that you can afford the monthly payments and that you understand the risks and consequences of defaulting on your loan or payment plan.
• The Preparation and Procedure of a Facelift
• A facelift is a complex and delicate procedure that requires careful preparation and planning. Before undergoing a facelift, you will have to:
• Consult with your surgeon. You will have to meet with your surgeon for an initial consultation, where you will discuss your goals, expectations, medical history, current medications, allergies, and lifestyle habits. Your surgeon will examine your face and neck, take measurements and photos, and recommend the best type and technique of facelift for you. Your surgeon will also explain the procedure, the risks and complications, the costs and financing options, and the recovery and aftercare instructions. You should ask your surgeon any questions or concerns you may have about the facelift.
• Prepare for the surgery. You will have to follow your surgeon’s instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. You may have to stop smoking, drinking alcohol, taking certain medications or supplements, or eating certain foods for a period of time before the surgery. You may also have to undergo some blood tests or other exams to ensure that you are healthy enough for the surgery. You should arrange for someone to drive you to and from the clinic and stay with you for at least 24 hours after the surgery. You should also prepare your home for your recovery by stocking up on food, drinks, ice packs, pillows, books, movies, or other items that can make you comfortable and entertained.
• Undergo the surgery. You will have to arrive at the clinic on the day of your surgery and check in with the staff. You will be given some paperwork to fill out and sign. You will then be taken to a preoperative room, where you will change into a gown and have an intravenous (IV) line inserted into your arm. You will also meet with your anesthesiologist, who will administer general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation depending on your type of facelift. You will then be taken to an operating room, where your surgeon will perform the facelift according to the agreed plan. The surgery can take anywhere from two to six hours depending on the type and extent of the facelift.
• The procedure of a facelift can vary depending on the type and technique of facelift that you choose. However, the general steps are as follows:
• Making incisions. Your surgeon will make incisions in strategic locations on your face or scalp according to the type of facelift that you are having. The incisions are usually hidden in the hairline, behind the ears, or inside the mouth or eyelids.
• Lifting and tightening tissues. Your surgeon will lift and tighten the skin and muscles of the face and neck using sutures (stitches), clips, or other devices. Your surgeon may also manipulate the SMAS layer if you are having a SMAS facelift.
• Removing excess skin. Your surgeon will trim the excess skin that is left after lifting and tightening the tissues.
• Closing incisions. Your surgeon will close the incisions using sutures (stitches), staples, or glue.
• Applying dressings. Your surgeon will apply bandages, gauze, or other dressings to protect the incisions and reduce swelling and bleeding.
• The Recovery and Aftercare of a Facelift
• A facelift is a major surgery that requires several weeks of recovery time. You will have to follow your surgeon’s instructions on how to care for yourself after the surgery. Some of the recovery and aftercare tips include:
• Resting. You should rest as much as possible for the first few days after the surgery. You should avoid any strenuous activities, such as exercise, lifting, or bending, for at least four weeks after the surgery. You should also avoid any activities that can increase blood pressure, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, or stress, for at least two weeks after the surgery.
• Taking medications. You should take the prescribed painkillers, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs as directed by your surgeon. You should also avoid taking any medications or supplements that can interfere with the healing process, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or vitamin E, unless approved by your surgeon.
• Applying ice packs. You should apply ice packs or cold compresses to your face and neck for the first 48 hours after the surgery. This can help reduce swelling, bruising, and pain. You should avoid applying ice directly to the skin or incisions, as this can cause frostbite or infection. You should also avoid applying heat, such as hot water bottles or heating pads, as this can increase swelling and bleeding.
• Elevating your head. You should keep your head elevated above the level of your heart for the first week after the surgery. This can help reduce swelling and fluid accumulation. You can use pillows, cushions, or recliners to prop up your head while sleeping or resting. You should avoid lying flat on your back or side for the first week after the surgery.
• Cleaning and dressing the incisions. You should keep the incisions clean and dry for the first week after the surgery. You should gently wash the incisions with mild soap and water once a day and pat them dry with a clean towel. You should also change the dressings as instructed by your surgeon. You should avoid rubbing, scratching, or picking at the incisions, as this can cause infection or scarring. You should also avoid exposing the incisions to direct sunlight, heat, or cold, as this can affect the healing and pigmentation of the skin.
• Following up with your surgeon. You should visit your surgeon for regular follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and progress. Your surgeon will remove the sutures, staples, or clips after about a week or two after the surgery. Your surgeon will also check for any signs of infection, bleeding, hematoma, nerve damage, skin necrosis, or other complications. Your surgeon will also advise you on when you can resume your normal activities, such as work, driving, exercise, or travel.
• The results of a facelift are not immediate. You will have to wait for several weeks or months for the swelling, bruising, and tightness to subside and for the final outcome to become visible. You will also have to wait for the scars to fade and become less noticeable over time. You can expect to see the full results of a facelift after about six months to a year after the surgery.
• The Risks and Complications of a Facelift
• A facelift is not a risk-free procedure. It carries some potential risks and complications that can affect your health and appearance. Some of the risks and complications include:
• Infection. This is a rare but serious complication that can occur if bacteria enter the incisions or the tissues during or after the surgery. Infection can cause fever, redness, swelling, pain, pus, or foul odor around the incisions or the face. Infection can also spread to other parts of the body and cause sepsis (blood poisoning) or necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease). Infection can be treated with antibiotics or drainage, but it may require additional surgery or hospitalization in severe cases.
• Bleeding. This is a common but usually minor complication that can occur during or after the surgery. Bleeding can cause bruising, hematoma (blood collection under the skin), or hematomas (blood collection in the tissues). Bleeding can be controlled with pressure, ice packs, medication, or drainage, but it may require additional surgery in severe cases.
• Hematoma. This is a common but usually minor complication that occurs when blood accumulates under the skin due to bleeding during or after the surgery. Hematoma can cause swelling, pain, discoloration, or distortion of the face or neck. Hematoma can be resolved with ice packs, medication, drainage, or massage, but it may require additional surgery in severe cases.
• Nerve damage. This is a rare but serious complication that occurs when nerves are injured during the surgery due to cutting, stretching, compression, or inflammation. Nerve damage can cause facial paralysis (loss of movement), facial palsy (abnormal movement), facial numbness (loss of sensation), facial pain (neuralgia), facial spasm (involuntary contraction), or facial asymmetry (unevenness). Nerve damage can be temporary or permanent depending on the type and extent of injury. Nerve damage can be treated with medication, physical therapy, electrical stimulation, nerve grafting, or nerve transfer, but it may require additional surgery in severe cases.
• Skin necrosis. This is a rare but serious complication that occurs when skin dies due to lack of blood supply during or after the surgery. Skin necrosis can cause blackening, peeling, or sloughing of the skin around the incisions or the face. Skin necrosis can also cause infection, scarring, or deformity of the face or neck. Skin necrosis can be treated with medication, debridement (removal of dead tissue), skin grafting, or flap surgery, but it may require additional surgery in severe cases.
• Hair loss. This is a common but usually minor complication that occurs when hair follicles are damaged during the surgery due to cutting, stretching, or scarring of the scalp. Hair loss can cause bald patches, thinning, or receding of the hairline around the incisions or the face. Hair loss can be temporary or permanent depending on the type and extent of damage. Hair loss can be treated with medication, hair transplantation, or camouflage techniques, such as wigs, hats, or makeup.
• Asymmetry. This is a common but usually minor complication that occurs when the face or neck is uneven due to swelling, bruising, nerve damage, muscle imbalance, or poor wound healing during or after the surgery. Asymmetry can cause distortion, crookedness, or irregularity of the facial features, such as eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or chin. Asymmetry can be temporary or permanent depending on the cause and severity. Asymmetry can be corrected with medication, massage, physical therapy, or revision surgery.
• Poor wound healing. This is a common but usually minor complication that occurs when the incisions do not heal properly due to infection, bleeding, tension, inflammation, or scarring during or after the surgery. Poor wound healing can cause wide, raised, red, itchy, or painful scars around the incisions or the face. Poor wound healing can also cause delayed healing, wound separation (dehiscence), or wound breakdown (evisceration). Poor wound healing can be treated with medication, dressing changes, scar massage, scar revision, or laser therapy, but it may require additional surgery in severe cases.
• Dissatisfaction with the results. This is a common but usually subjective complication that occurs when the results of the facelift do not meet your expectations or preferences. Dissatisfaction with the results can be caused by unrealistic expectations, poor communication, technical errors, or complications during or after the surgery. Dissatisfaction with the results can cause emotional distress, regret, or depression. Dissatisfaction with the results can be addressed with counseling, medication, or revision surgery.

The Alternatives and Complementary Procedures to a Facelift

A facelift is not the only option to improve the appearance of your face and neck. There are some alternatives and complementary procedures that can achieve similar or different goals, such as:

• Non-surgical facial rejuvenation. This is a category of procedures that use non-invasive or minimally invasive methods to enhance the appearance of the face and neck without surgery. Some of the common non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures include:
  • Botox. This is a procedure that involves injecting botulinum toxin (a neurotoxin) into specific facial muscles to temporarily relax them and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, such as forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet, or bunny lines. Botox can also be used to treat other conditions, such as excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), chronic migraines, or muscle spasms. Botox is a quick and easy procedure that can be done in an office setting with minimal discomfort and downtime. However, Botox is not permanent and requires repeated injections every three to six months to maintain the results.
  • Dermal fillers. This is a procedure that involves injecting soft tissue fillers (such as hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, or fat) into specific areas of the face to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, enhance contours, or plump lips. Dermal fillers can also be used to treat other conditions, such as acne scars, dark circles under the eyes, or facial asymmetry. Dermal fillers are a quick and easy procedure that can be done in an office setting with minimal discomfort and downtime. However, dermal fillers are not permanent and require repeated injections every six to 18 months to maintain the results.
  • Chemical peels. This is a procedure that involves applying a chemical solution (such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid, or phenol) to the surface of the skin to remove the outer layer of dead or damaged skin cells and reveal a new layer of smoother and brighter skin. Chemical peels can also be used to treat other conditions, such as acne, pigmentation, sun damage, or aging. Chemical peels are a quick and easy procedure that can be done in an office setting with minimal discomfort and downtime. However, chemical peels can cause temporary side effects, such as redness, peeling, burning, or sensitivity of the skin. Chemical peels also vary in strength and depth, from superficial to deep, and require different levels of care and recovery time.
  • Laser resurfacing. This is a procedure that involves using a laser (such as carbon dioxide, erbium, or fractional) to deliver pulses of light energy to the skin to vaporize the outer layer of dead or damaged skin cells and stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin fibers. Laser resurfacing can also be used to treat other conditions, such as scars, wrinkles, age spots, or birthmarks. Laser resurfacing is a more advanced and precise procedure that can be done in an office setting or a surgical center with local anesthesia or sedation. However, laser resurfacing can cause more discomfort and downtime than chemical peels. Laser resurfacing can also cause temporary or permanent side effects, such as swelling, blistering, infection, scarring, or pigmentation changes.
  • Ultherapy. This is a procedure that involves using ultrasound waves to deliver heat energy to the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin fibers. Ultherapy can also be used to lift and tighten the skin of the face and neck without surgery. Ultherapy is a non-invasive and painless procedure that can be done in an office setting with no downtime. However, Ultherapy is not as effective as surgery in correcting severe sagging or wrinkles. Ultherapy also requires multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.
  • Eyelid surgery. This is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin, fat, or muscle from the upper or lower eyelids to improve the appearance of the eyes. Eyelid surgery can also be used to treat other conditions, such as droopy eyelids (ptosis), puffy eyes (bags), or dark circles under the eyes. Eyelid surgery can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation and requires shorter recovery time than a facelift. However, eyelid surgery can also cause some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, dry eyes, ectropion (turning out of the eyelid), entropion (turning in of the eyelid), or vision problems.
  • Brow lift. This is a surgical procedure that involves lifting and tightening the skin and muscles of the forehead and eyebrows to improve the appearance of the upper face. Brow lift can also be used to treat other conditions, such as sagging eyebrows (brow ptosis), forehead wrinkles (frown lines), or hooded eyes (excess skin over the eyes). Brow lift can be performed using different techniques, such as endoscopic brow lift (using an endoscope), coronal brow lift (using an incision across the scalp), or temporal brow lift (using incisions at the temples). Brow lift can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation and requires shorter recovery time than a facelift. However, brow lift can also cause some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, hair loss, asymmetry, or poor wound healing.
  • Rhinoplasty. This is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping the nose to improve the appearance of the face. Rhinoplasty can also be used to treat other conditions, such as breathing problems (deviated septum), nasal injury (fracture), or birth defects (cleft lip or palate). Rhinoplasty can be performed using different techniques, such as open rhinoplasty (using an incision across the columella), closed rhinoplasty (using incisions inside the nostrils), or non-surgical rhinoplasty (using dermal fillers or implants). Rhinoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation and requires shorter recovery time than a facelift. However, rhinoplasty can also cause some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, swelling, bruising, nasal obstruction, nasal collapse, or dissatisfaction with the results.
  • Chin augmentation. This is a surgical procedure that involves enhancing the size, shape, or projection of the chin to improve the appearance of the face. Chin augmentation can also be used to treat other conditions, such as micrognathia (small chin), retrognathia (receding chin), or prognathism (protruding chin). Chin augmentation can be performed using different techniques, such as sliding genioplasty (moving the chin bone forward or backward), chin implant (inserting a synthetic material under the chin skin), or fat transfer (injecting fat from another part of the body into the chin). Chin augmentation can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation and requires shorter recovery time than a facelift. However, chin augmentation can also cause some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, implant displacement, implant infection, implant rejection, or dissatisfaction with the results.
  • These are some of the alternatives and complementary procedures to a facelift that you may consider depending on your goals, expectations, anatomy, skin quality, age, budget, and preference. You should consult with your surgeon to discuss the pros and cons of each option and decide which one is best for you.

Conclusion

A facelift is a cosmetic surgery procedure that can improve the appearance of your face and neck by removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissues, and repositioning the skin. A facelift can help you look younger, fresher, and more attractive, which can boost your self-esteem and confidence.

However, a facelift is not a simple or risk-free procedure. It requires careful planning, preparation, and recovery. It also has limitations and potential complications that you should be aware of before deciding to undergo one.

Therefore, you should do your research, consult with your surgeon, and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a facelift before making your final decision.

We hope this article has provided you with all the information you need to know about facelifts. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about facelifts:

• Q: How long does a facelift last?
• A: A facelift can last for several years depending on your age, skin quality, lifestyle, and maintenance. However, a facelift cannot stop the natural aging process of your face and neck. You may need to undergo additional procedures or treatments in the future to maintain or enhance your results.
• Q: How much does a facelift cost?
• A: The cost of a facelift can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the type and extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, the anesthesia fees, the facility fees, and other related expenses. According to [Healthline], the average cost of a facelift in the United States was $7,467 in 2018. In the United Kingdom, according to [NHS], the average cost of a facelift ranges from £6,000 to £10,000. However, these are only estimates and do not include other expenses that may add up to the total cost of a facelift.
• Q: Is a facelift painful?
• A: A facelift is not usually painful during the surgery because you will be given anesthesia or sedation to numb the area. However, you may experience some discomfort, pain, or tightness after the surgery as the anesthesia wears off and the tissues heal. You will be given painkillers to help you cope with the pain after the surgery.
• Q: What are the risks and complications of a facelift?
• A: A facelift is not a risk-free procedure. It carries some potential risks and complications that can affect your health and appearance. Some of the risks and complications include infection, bleeding, hematoma, nerve damage, skin necrosis, hair loss, asymmetry, poor wound healing, or dissatisfaction with the results.
• Q: How long does it take to recover from a facelift?
• A: The recovery time from a facelift can vary depending on the type and extent of the procedure, the healing process, and the individual factors. Generally, you will need to take at least two weeks off from work and other activities to rest and heal. You will also need to follow strict postoperative instructions to avoid complications and ensure optimal results. You will experience swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, tightness, itching, scarring, and other side effects during the recovery period. You can expect to see the final results of a facelift after about six months to a year after the surgery.