As we age, our skin gradually loses elasticity, facial fat diminishes, and gravity takes its toll. These natural changes often lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and an overall tired or aged appearance. Facelift surgery provides a powerful and personalized way to turn back the clock, helping restore a more youthful, refreshed look while keeping your natural facial features intact.

At Iconic Plastic Surgery, we believe a facelift should enhance your appearance without changing who you are. The goal is not to look different, but to look like a more vibrant version of yourself.

What a Facelift Really Does Beyond Just Lifting Skin

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a comprehensive facial rejuvenation procedure that targets the visible signs of aging in the face and neck. This includes deep folds, jowls, drooping skin, and excess fat in the lower face and under the chin. The procedure is designed to lift and tighten underlying tissues, remove excess skin, and gently redrape the skin over newly defined contours.

One of the key techniques used during facelift surgery is the repositioning of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), which supports facial structure. This deeper tightening not only improves skin tone and tightness but also provides longer-lasting results than techniques that address only the skin’s surface.

Inside the Operating Room—What to Expect on Surgery Day

Facelift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about four to six hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional procedures are combined. Incisions are placed along the hairline, extending behind the ears and into the lower scalp, where they are easily hidden once healed.

If needed, complementary procedures such as a brow lift, neck lift, or facial fat grafting can be performed at the same time to create a more balanced, youthful result. The goal is to restore natural volume, smooth out deep folds, and create gentle contours that reflect a rested, vibrant version of you.

Healing After Your Facelift—a Realistic Look at Recovery

Recovery from facelift surgery is generally smooth and manageable. After the procedure:

• First Day

Gentle compression bandages are applied to minimize swelling and bruising. These are usually removed the following day.

• Showering and Mobility

Most patients can begin showering within 24 hours and resume light activities at home in about three to four days.

• Bruising and Swelling

These effects are most noticeable during the first one to two weeks but gradually improve.

• Pain Management

Any discomfort is typically mild and managed with over-the-counter medication and cold compresses.

Patients can expect to see a significant difference in their appearance as swelling subsides over the first few weeks. Full results become more noticeable around one to two months post-surgery, revealing smoother skin, improved facial definition, and a more youthful contour that still looks like you.

These results can last anywhere from five to ten years, especially when supported with healthy habits and consistent skincare.

Are You a Good Candidate? What to Know Before You Decide

A facelift may be right for you if:

• You are in good overall health with no conditions that impair healing
• You have noticeable sagging, jowls, or deep folds around the lower face and neck
• You want to improve your facial appearance without changing your natural expression
• You have realistic expectations about the results

During your consultation at Iconic Plastic Surgery, we will assess your facial structure, skin elasticity, and personal goals to determine if facelift surgery is the best option for your needs.

Maintaining Your Glow—Enhancements That Work With a Facelift

To maximize your results, we often recommend incorporating additional non-surgical treatments. Options such as BOTOX® Cosmetic or dermal fillers can address finer wrinkles and skin texture for a more polished look.

These treatments can also help extend the results of your facelift, giving you long-term benefits without the need for more invasive procedures down the road.

Let’s Talk About Your Transformation

If you’re ready to take the next step toward feeling more confident and refreshed, we’re here to help. At Iconic Plastic Surgery, we understand how important it is to look like yourself—just more rejuvenated and energized.

To learn more about facelift surgery, contact Iconic Plastic Surgery at 760-637-5288. We can offer you the guidance needed to meet your goals. Alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form, and we will get back to you shortly to make an appointment.