At Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, we want to help you feel better about yourself and boost your confidence. That is why we offer facelifts to our clients. During a facelift, we can address wrinkles and excess skin by tightening your facial tissue. Some of the most visible signs of aging occur in the face and neck. Fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin can change your appearance and be difficult to treat once they’ve arrived. Our facelift procedures restore youth and vitality to your appearance. If you are interested, read on to learn more about our facelift and deep plane facelift procedures.
You can contact us today at our locations in Marietta and Atlanta to schedule a consultation and find out how a facelift can improve your appearance.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a procedure that involves moving your facial tissue, skin, and muscle to re-contour your face for a smoother, more youthful appearance. Not only is your skin lifted, but your face’s underlying structures are restructured and elevated for more defined facial contours. The procedure involves three layers of tissue, namely:
- Elevating the skin.
- Working on the fat below the skin.
- Working on the muscle layer below the fat.
We may also use liposuction to remove any excess fat deposits. Your facial muscles are also tightened to tone your face. A facelift is an invasive surgical treatment and can achieve results that non-invasive treatments can’t.
During a facelift, the plastic surgeon makes incisions in the hairline and scalp to minimize the appearance of scars after healing. The skin is not only lifted and redraped, but the underlying structures are also elevated and restructured for improved facial contours. When necessary, liposuction is also added to remove localized fat deposits, and muscles are tightened to improve overall tone and shape.
As facelift procedures are completely customized at Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, scar length and the extent of the surgery depend on the individual. Facelifts can also be performed in conjunction with other procedures, which can be discussed during your consultation.
What Can a Facelift Treat?
Facelifts can effectively treat several visible signs of aging, including:
- Excess skin and fat on the neck and jawline
- Deep smile lines
- Diminished skin tone and decreased skin laxity due to gravity, weight fluctuations or aging
- Jowls near the chin
- Localized fat deposits, if liposuction is used.
How Can I Benefit From a Facelift?
A facelift can treat visible signs of aging, such as sagging, deepening folds, fallen fat, jowls in your cheeks and jaws, and excess fat under your chin. While a facelift is perfect for combating signs of aging, it can also be used on younger patients trying to tighten excess skin and other facial depressions.
What a Facelift Can’t Do
It is crucial to know the limits of a facelift procedure. For instance, a facelift is a restorative surgery that cannot change your fundamental appearance. A facelift cannot improve brown spots and fine lines or treat thinning skin, and only addresses the quantity of excess tissue rather than the quality. Lasers and other facial rejuvenation procedures can be used to address these issues.
Types of Facelifts
There are several kinds of Facelifts that will address different areas of your face. Each type of Facelift uses various incisions to achieve your aesthetic goal.
Mini-Lift
A mini-lift will address the upper part of your face, such as your cheek down to your jawline. This surgical wrinkle treatment can gently lift sagging cheeks and smooth the jawline to provide a subtle, natural-looking improvement in the contour of the face. The mini-lift typically requires smaller incisions, which are often discreetly placed along the hairline and near the ears. This approach is ideal for those in their 40s or early 50s who may be experiencing early signs of aging, such as fine lines, minor sagging, and a slight loss of facial volume. With shorter recovery times and less invasiveness, a mini-lift can give you a refreshed look that enhances your natural contours without the downtime of more extensive procedures.
Neck Lift
This type of facelift primarily works from your jawline down to your collarbone. It will improve sagging jowls, loose neck skin, and excess fat under your chin. A neck lift can be an effective anti-aging solution for patients noticing aging signs around the lower face and neck. This procedure addresses common concerns in this area, such as loose, hanging skin along the neck (often called a “turkey neck”), jowls forming along the jawline, and unwanted fat accumulation beneath the chin. During the procedure, incisions are made behind the ears and occasionally under the chin, allowing access to lift and tighten the underlying muscles (known as the platysma muscles) and remove any excess skin or fat.
Full Facelift
A full facelift will address both of these areas during one surgical procedure. This procedure addresses the mid and lower face as well as the neck, lifting and tightening deeper layers of facial tissue for lasting results. Patients who undergo a full facelift typically have more advanced signs of aging, such as deep wrinkles, pronounced sagging around the cheeks, jawline, and neck, and volume loss across the face. Recovery times may be longer for a full facelift compared to a mini-lift or neck lift, but the effects are often more noticeable and long-lasting. For those considering a complete facial transformation, a full facelift may be combined with other treatments, like eyelid surgery or a brow lift, to create a balanced, harmonious appearance across all facial areas.
What Is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift is an advanced surgical technique that treats more significant facial aging by repositioning the deep layers of muscle, fat, and connective tissue beneath the skin. While traditional facelifts primarily tighten the skin, this approach works at the level of the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), which is responsible for much of the visible sagging in the face and neck. We lift and release tension in these deep structures to create a more natural repositioning of facial features rather than a pulled or over-tightened look. This method often has longer-lasting outcomes compared to surface-level techniques.
What Does a Deep Plane Facelift Address?
Midface Sagging
Sagging in the midface often causes the cheeks to flatten and descend, which can create a tired or aged appearance. A deep plane facelift repositions the underlying structures that support the cheeks, allowing them to sit higher and more naturally on the face. It can help the eyes look more open and refreshed because of the improved support beneath the cheeks.
Nasolabial Folds
Deep creases that run from the sides of the nose down to the corners of the mouth tend to become more pronounced with age. These folds form as the midface tissues descend and add weight to the skin around the mouth. The deep plane technique directly addresses the cause of these lines by lifting and redistributing the tissue that has fallen forward, rather than only pulling on the surface.
Jowls
As facial ligaments weaken, tissue can accumulate along the jawline and obscure its natural definition. Jowls not only blur the separation between the face and the neck but also contribute to a heavier, squared appearance of the lower face. Targeted improvement through a deep plane facelift helps create a smoother and more refined lower face.
Sagging Neck
Laxity in the neck often develops along with jowling, leading to vertical banding, loose skin, and a loss of the smooth contour beneath the chin. The deep plane approach allows the surgeon to lift and tighten the supporting tissues in the neck at the same time as the face for a more harmonious outcome.
What Are the Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift?
- Natural-Looking Outcomes: Because the surgery repositions the deeper support structures instead of pulling only on the skin, the face regains youthful contours without looking tight or overstretched.
- Better Longevity: By correcting the underlying cause of sagging rather than just addressing the surface, improvements often last longer compared to more superficial techniques.
- Reduced Tension Means Less Visible Scars: Traditional skin-only lifts place tension on the incisions, which can widen scars or make them more noticeable. The deep plane method minimizes tension on the skin, allowing incisions to heal in a thinner, more discreet line that is easier to conceal around the ears and hairline.
- Improvement in Multiple Areas at Once: The deep plane technique allows the surgeon to address the midface, jowls, and neck in a single operation.
- Softer Expression and Facial Balance: By lifting and redistributing tissue, the surgery helps soften harsh folds and heaviness that make the face look tired or stern.
Deep Plane Facelift Considerations
Not every surgery is right for every patient. Cons of a deep plane facelift can include:
- More technically complex surgery
- Longer recovery time compared to less invasive options
- Higher potential for swelling and bruising initially
- Not every patient may need this level of correction
Where to Start Your Facelift Procedure
A Consultation
If you are eager to begin your facelift journey, we can guide you through the process. The first step towards a facelift is a consultation with us. We will examine you and ask you about your medical history so that we can understand any underlying medical conditions that may complicate or prevent the procedure. You should be fully prepared to answer all questions about your past and current medical conditions. Previous surgeries and plastic surgeries, as well as any complications experienced, should also be mentioned at this point. We also need to know if you use alcohol or cigarettes.
During the consultation, your skin laxity, facial bone structure, and fat deposits will be examined, as well as the muscle actions of your facial expressions. We also recommend bringing photos of yourself from 10-15 years ago in order to create a natural look. Your cosmetic goals and concerns will also be discussed, including what treatment options are available to you.
The Medical Review
You will need to provide the names and dosages of any medication you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, herbal medications, vitamins, and any other dietary supplements.
A physical exam is the next step. At this point, we may also request records from your healthcare provider to ensure that you are suitable for surgery.
One of our professional surgeons will take photographs of your face from various angles, including close-up shots of particular features, to assess the area that we will be working with. Factors such as bone structure, facial shape, skin quality, and fat distribution will be examined and documented for the procedure. This part of the exam helps us find the best options for your facelift procedure.
At this stage, you will be asked a series of questions regarding your expectations. We will explain in detail what your procedure will entail, including what a facelift cannot address and what changes you are likely to see in your face.
The Procedure
A facelift procedure requires the administration of an anesthetic since this is an invasive surgical procedure. We will determine the most suitable type of anesthesia for you based on the results of your medical review. Incisions are made along your hairline to keep them concealed when they heal. We will either use glue or dissolvable sutures to seal the incision.
Once the incisions are made, we are able to tighten the underlying structures of the face. We may also remove excess fat from the submental area or other locations. After the underlying structures are lifted, we remove excess skin and naturally drape the tissue back over the area. This is important as we wish to avoid a tight, windswept look after your facial surgery. Incisions will be closed, and some surgeries may require the use of drainage tubes to reduce fluid buildup.
How a Deep Plane Facelift Is Performed
During a deep plane facelift, we begin by carefully releasing the ligaments that tether the facial tissues, which allows us to reposition them without creating surface tension. The dissection takes place beneath the SMAS layer, where the muscles, fat, and connective tissue that contribute to sagging are located. By freeing these deeper structures, we can lift the midface and jawline to restore youthful contours while preserving natural movement. In many cases, we also elevate the tissues of the neck at the same time.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?
Ideal candidates for a facelift maintain a stable body weight, do not smoke, and do not have serious medical conditions that would impair surgery or healing. Our medical team will evaluate your health history and give you an exam during your consultation to determine whether this procedure is right for you.
Candidates for a deep plane facelift are typically individuals with more advanced signs of facial aging, such as pronounced sagging in the midface, deeper nasolabial folds, and heavier jowls that are not fully corrected with less invasive techniques. This approach is often most effective for patients in their 40s through 60s who have sufficient skin elasticity and a strong underlying bone structure to support the lift.
What Is Recovery Like?
Depending on the incisions and types of procedures that occur during your facelift, recovery can be different for each individual. Bruising and swelling will be present after surgery, and thin tubes may be placed to drain excess fluid. Bandages will be placed around your face to minimize swelling and bruising. We will use small tubes to remove excess blood or fluid. We will give you instructions to help you recover and discuss the dates for your post-procedure follow-ups.
Several follow-up appointments are necessary within the next 60 days following your facelift procedure. This will ensure that you are recovering properly and within the appropriate period. Your drainage tube will likely be removed a day after your facelift, and you will have antibiotic ointment applied to the incision. Old bandages on your face are also replaced with fresh ones. In this follow-up appointment, your bandages are likely to be removed depending on the healing progress of your face. You will instead be given an elasticized facial sling to wear to further support your face.
Is Recovery From a Deep Plane Facelift Longer?
Recovery from a deep plane facelift often takes slightly longer compared to traditional facelift techniques because the surgery involves repositioning deeper tissues. Swelling and bruising may be more pronounced in the first couple of weeks. Most patients feel comfortable resuming social activities around three to four weeks after surgery, while complete healing continues over several months. The extended recovery period is balanced by the natural appearance and longevity of the results achieved with this technique.
What Results Can You Expect?
A facelift can improve visible signs of aging by restoring definition to the jawline, smoothing sagging in the cheeks, and reducing folds around the mouth. You can expect your face to appear more balanced, with a refreshed contour. While results vary depending on the technique used, improvements are designed to look subtle and harmonious. The outcome typically lasts for years, although the natural aging process continues, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help preserve your results longer.
More FAQs About Facelift Surgery
How Long Does a Facelift Procedure Take?
The length of your facelift surgery depends on the type of procedure being performed. On average, a standard facelift takes about two to four hours to complete. This timeline can vary based on the complexity of the surgery, whether additional procedures like a neck lift or eyelid surgery are included, and your unique anatomy.
When Will I Start Seeing Results From My Facelift?
While you’ll notice some changes immediately after surgery, your results will be masked at first by swelling and bruising. Your appearance will continue to improve over time as swelling subsides and your tissues heal. Most patients begin to see significant improvements within two to four weeks, with final results becoming apparent around three to six months after the procedure. By this point, any residual swelling or bruising has typically resolved, and the skin settles into its newly rejuvenated position. These results can last for years with proper care, making a facelift a long-term investment in your appearance.
Is There a Specific Age That’s Best for Getting a Facelift?
There isn’t a strict “best age” for a facelift because everyone ages differently. Most patients seeking a facelift are in their 40s, 50s, or 60s, but the procedure can benefit anyone experiencing noticeable sagging, deep wrinkles, or loss of facial structure. What’s more important than age is the condition of your skin, the degree of aging you want to address, and your overall health. Facelifts are often sought when other anti-aging treatments like fillers or laser therapies are no longer providing the desired level of improvement.
Can a Facelift Be Combined With Other Procedures?
A facelift is often combined with other procedures to achieve a more comprehensive result. For example, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can address sagging or puffy eyelids, while brow lifts target drooping brows and forehead wrinkles. Fat grafting or dermal fillers may be added for patients who want to enhance their facial contours. Skin resurfacing treatments like laser therapies can improve the texture and tone of your skin.
How Soon Can I Wear Makeup After a Facelift?
We recommend waiting at least ten days before applying makeup to the surgical areas. This gives your incisions time to heal and reduces the risk of irritation or infection. Even after this period, it’s important to use clean applicators and gentle, non-comedogenic products to avoid aggravating sensitive skin. Focus on keeping the treated areas clean and moisturized. If you have specific events or occasions coming up, let us know so we can guide you on safely incorporating makeup into your routine as you heal.
What Will My Scars Be Like After a Facelift?
Incisions for a facelift are typically placed along the hairline and around the ears so that scars remain as discreet as possible once healed. In the weeks following surgery, scars may appear pink or slightly raised, but they gradually fade and flatten over time. Because a deep plane facelift reduces the amount of tension placed on the skin, scars from this technique often heal in thinner, less noticeable lines. With proper care and time, most patients find that their scars are well concealed and do not interfere with wearing their hair up or styled away from the face.
About Your Surgeon
Dr. Stanley Okoro is a skilled and internationally recognized plastic surgeon with expertise in breast and body sculpting as well as advanced facial surgery techniques. In 2011, Dr. Stanley Okoro was given the distinction of Top Face Lift Doctor by RealSelf.com. As a Platinum Elite RealSelf expert, Dr. Okoro is renowned for his work in breast augmentation, liposuction, tummy tucks, and Brazilian butt lifts. His reputation extends globally, with patients traveling from Europe and Africa to benefit from his expertise. Dr. Okoro frequently speaks at conferences, sharing his innovative techniques and commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Professional Facelifts to Restore Your Youthful Glow
At Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, we strive for excellence. Our client’s comfort and satisfaction are our priorities. We will answer all your questions to ensure that you are comfortable with the procedure. If you would like to know more about our Facelift procedures, contact us or visit our offices in Marietta, GA. We are available through our online form or by phone at (770) 485-1554.
