Facelift Surgery
In the hands of an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Henry Garazo, facelift surgery can help you take up to ten years off of your appearance
A facelift can greatly rejuvenate your look by diminishing signs of aging in the mid-portion of your face. Lax muscle tone, sagging skin, deep facial creases, and displaced fat can make you look tired and older than you feel.
Facelift surgery tightens lax underlying muscle, removes excess fat, and re-drapes facial skin for a youthful yet natural look. Innovative procedures in recent years produce beautiful, subtle results, no longer creating that “worked on” look many fear from a face lift. Hagerstown and Frederick plastic surgeon Dr. Henry Garazo is experienced in modern facial procedures, bringing state-of-the-art techniques and unsurpassed care to his patients at Plastic Surgery Services.
View our facelift before and after gallery »
“From my consultation until now almost 3 weeks after my surgery these people have been wonderful and very welcoming, one of the friendliest offices I’ve ever walked into. They are very personable and make you feel very comfortable. They show genuine concern about your healing and comfort, they check on you regularly, they see you regularly to insure everything is going as it should. If you think somethings wrong they bring you in immediately without question. They are very kind people and I’m extremely happy with the work that I had done, I don’t think I’ll ever go anywhere else to have “work” done. This office is amazing and his employees are amazing, they are all so sweet and caring. I’d recommend them to everyone.”
—Real patient review
Good candidates for a facelift
Facelifts are popular among both men and women, usually in their 40s through their 60s, though both younger and older patients can also benefit from the results. The best candidates tend to be those who are physically healthy, have fairly good skin elasticity, do not smoke, and possess specific, realistic goals.
Generally speaking, a facelift might be a great option for you if you have any of the following concerns:
- Loss of muscle tone and skin elasticity on the face and neck.
- Deep creasing between the nose and mouth, known as nasolabial folds.
- Jowling or loss of definition between the jawline and neck.
- An overall drooping or tired appearance.
Through careful consultation, Dr. Garazo can help you determine if a facelift is the best option for you.
- Key Benefits
- Glossary
- Removal of Sagging Skin: A facelift can dramatically reduce signs of aging by removing excess skin, smoothing out wrinkles, and tightening facial tissues.
- Natural Results: Modern facelift techniques aim to provide natural-looking results, avoiding an “overdone” look and preserving the essence of the patient’s facial expressions and characteristics.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Unlike non-surgical options, the results of a facelift are more durable, typically lasting for many years.
- Tightened, Youthful Appearance: A facelift tightens loose skin around the face and neck, offering a firmer and smoother skin texture, which contributes to a more refined and contoured facial profile.
- Enhanced Jawline Definition: By addressing jowls and excess skin, a facelift can restore definition to the jawline, creating a more defined and elegant neck and chin contour.
- Anesthesia: Medication used during surgery to relieve pain and alter consciousness. In facelifts, local or general anesthesia may be used to ensure patient comfort.
- Blepharoplasty: Also known as eyelid surgery, a procedure that can be performed in conjunction with a facelift to enhance the appearance of the eyes by removing excess skin and fat.
- Deep Plane Facelift: A technique that goes deeper than a traditional facelift, repositioning not only the skin but also the underlying muscle and tissue for a more dramatic and long-lasting result.
- Facial Rejuvenation: A broad term that encompasses various cosmetic procedures aimed at restoring the youthful appearance of the face. This can include surgical options like facelifts and non-surgical treatments such as fillers and Botox.
- Hairline: The line where the hair meets the forehead. In facelift surgery, incisions may be made along or within the hairline to minimize visible scarring.
- Incision: The surgical cuts made by a surgeon, which in the case of a facelift, are typically made within the hairline and around the ears to minimize visible scarring.
- Jowls: The sagging skin below the jawline and chin, often targeted and reduced during a facelift to create a more defined jawline.
- Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty): A procedure often performed alongside a facelift to tighten the skin and muscles of the neck, reducing the appearance of a “turkey neck” or double chin.
- Pixie Ear: A complication of facelift surgery where the earlobe becomes distorted and elongated, attached directly to the cheek, resembling the ear of a pixie. This can occur when too much tension is placed on the skin during the procedure.
- Rhytidectomy: The medical term for a facelift, a cosmetic surgery procedure aimed at reducing wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging on the face and neck.
- SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System): A layer of tissue deep within the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which is adjusted during a facelift to lift and tighten facial muscles and skin.
- Sutures: The stitches used by surgeons to close incisions. They can be dissolvable or may require removal after a certain period.
- Tumescent Technique: A technique that involves injecting a large volume of a diluted local anesthetic into the fatty tissue being treated, which swells and firms the area, allowing for easier removal of excess skin with less bleeding.
What is facelift surgery like?
There are several facelift techniques Dr. Garazo can use depending upon the extent and type of change you seek. A traditional facelift, for instance, addresses the deep layers of your face, repositioning the underlying tissue, lifting deep layers, and redistributing fat for a more youthful look. For those with less extensive concerns, a mini-facelift may offer the level of rejuvenation needed. A mini-lift can tighten your jowls, cheeks, and neck using less extensive incisions.
“I had a wonderful experience. Dr. Garazo and staff were kind and professional. I am thrilled with my results. I would recommend that anyone considering plastic surgery start here.”
—Real patient review
Anesthesia
Typically, facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from two to five hours, depending on how extensive a procedure you need.
Facelift incisions
Incisions are made in front of and behind the ear where they are carefully concealed by the natural folds of your skin while allowing Dr. Garazo adequate access to reposition and elevate underlying tissues. To address the neck, Dr. Garazo will use the same incisions to lift and tighten tissues above platysmal muscles to define the jaw line, remove any excess fat, and reduce drooping skin.
Facelift recovery
After your procedure, you will spend some time in a recovery room as the anesthesia wears off. If you had a mini-facelift, you may be allowed to return home the same day with a designated driver. For more extensive procedures, you may be required to stay overnight with a private nurse.
After your procedure, it’s normal to experience some discomfort. We are happy to prescribe pain medication to ensure you are not in pain. Swelling and bruising are also normal and typically subside within a week or two with proper care. It’s important to avoid strenuous activity or anything that elevates your blood pressure during the beginning stages of healing. Normal, day-to-day activities can usually be resumed in around two weeks, though exercise will need to be avoided for at least three weeks.
Combining other procedures with your facelift
Though traditional and mini-facelifts provide great anti-aging results, they may not address every aesthetic facial issue you seek. In some cases, these procedures can be combined with others, such as eyelid surgery, or a neck lift, for a more complete cosmetic renewal. Dr. Garazo also often recommends non-surgical treatments to enhance results, such as BOTOX or fillers to address fine lines and wrinkles or skin resurfacing to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Facelift surgery FAQs
What types of facelifts are available?
Different types include traditional full facelift, mini facelift, mid-facelift, and neck lift. The right procedure for you will depend on the extent of aging and the level of results you desire.
What type of anesthesia is used during a facelift?
A facelift is usually performed under general anesthesia. You’ll be asleep during surgery and numb so you will not feel any pain.
What is the recovery time for a facelift?
Your initial recovery takes about 2 to 3 weeks, with swelling and bruising subsiding significantly in this period. By about 3 months, you’ll be near your final results. It can take up to 12 months for all swelling to resolve and reveal your more youthful appearance.
How long do facelift results last?
Facelift results can last up to 10 years or more. The procedure sets the clock back on aging; however, it cannot stop the natural aging process. Eventually, time and gravity will start to impact your initial results. The longevity depends on various factors, including skin type, lifestyle, and age at the time of surgery.
Will there be visible scars after a facelift?
Dr. Garazo carefully places facelift incisions in inconspicuous areas, such as along the hairline and behind the ears. Facelift scars are generally well-hidden and fade over time.
How soon can I return to work after a facelift?
Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within 1-2 weeks, although you will still have some swelling. You may need more time to recover if you have physically-demanding job.
When can I resume normal activities and exercise after a facelift?
You’ll be able to resume light activities after 1-2 weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Dr. Garazo will clear you to gradually resume normal activities at your follow up appointments.
Will a facelift affect my facial expressions?
It shouldn’t. A well-performed facelift by a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Garazo should not affect your ability to make facial expressions. The goal is to create a natural, refreshed appearance.
Can men get facelifts?
Yes! Facelifts are increasingly popular among men seeking to achieve a more youthful appearance while maintaining a natural look. Make sure you choose a surgeon who is experienced in facial procedures for men; some of the techniques for men are slightly different to maintain and enhance masculine features.
How can I minimize swelling and bruising after a facelift?
You can speed healing by following post-operative care instructions, keeping your head elevated, applying cold compresses, and avoiding strenuous activities until cleared by Dr. Garazo.
What should I eat after a facelift?
There’s no specific diet you need to follow; however, a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and protein aids in healing. Avoid foods that require excessive chewing and stay hydrated. Low-sodium choices will also prevent exaggerate swelling.
What is a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is a less invasive procedure targeting mild to moderate sagging, often with shorter incisions and quicker recovery compared to a traditional facelift. Many younger patients choose to have a mini facelift once they notice signs of sagging. This approach can help you stay more youthful-looking for longer and you can undergo a secondary facelift as the aging process diminishes the results of your mini facelift.
What are the alternatives to a surgical facelift?
Non-surgical options include fillers, Botox®, and microneedling, though they offer less dramatic and shorter-lasting results.
Can facelift surgery be performed on older adults?
Yes, age is not a barrier as long as you are in good health and a suitable candidate for surgery.
What is the difference between a facelift and a neck lift?
A facelift targets the mid-to-lower face, primarily addressing sagging cheeks and jawline. The neck can be improved somewhat by most facelift techniques but there are some limitations. A neck lift focuses on removing excess skin and fat and tightening lax muscles in the entire neck area for a more defined contour.
Is it normal to experience numbness after a facelift?
Temporary numbness in the face and neck area is common after a facelift and usually resolves over several weeks to months. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation procedures helps greatly reduce negative side effects.
When can I wear makeup after a facelift?
As you start to feel better and make short trips out in public, you may be feeling self-conscious about the appearance of your incisions or any bruising. However, it’s important not to apply anything irritating to healing incisions. Dr. Garazo recommends waiting at least a week before applying camoflauge makeup. Our team of skincare specialists can recommend options, including Oxygenetix post-procedure makeup that won’t irritate your skin.
How much does a facelift cost in Maryland?
In our Hagerstown, Maryland plastic surgery office, the final cost of your facelift surgery will depend on a few factors, including how extensive of a procedure you need to achieve your desired results. Your cost of surgery will include:
- Dr. Garazo’s surgeon’s fee
- All of your pre- and post-operative visits
- Operating room time and supplies in our Quad-A accredited surgery center
- Anesthesia
After your consultation with Dr. Garazo, we’ll provide you with a surgery fee quote with your exact price. In addition to accepting cash, check, and card, we also work with CareCredit for plastic surgery financing.
“Such a warm-welcoming place from the moment you walk in the door! The staff and Doctor are friendly and knowledgeable, they provided step by step for the procedure I was getting done which caused me to be calm and excited for it rather than nervous, everything has been going perfect from the surgery to the healing! They went beyond of what I expected. They followed up and were easy to contact when needing assistance with something. Definitely recommend getting cosmetic surgery and the other services they provide, done here! You won’t be disappointed! I can’t say enough good things about this place.”
—Real patient review, June 2023
Meet Dr. Henry Garazo
Dr. Garazo is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience offering aesthetic procedures in the greater Hagerstown, MD area. Known for his thorough, expert, and friendly care, Dr. Garazo is a 6x winner of “Best Plastic Surgeon” in the Herald-Mail Tri-State’s Best Community’s Choice Awards. He prides himself on offering comprehensive, informative consultations and ensures every patient always meets personally with him.
For those considering a Maryland facelift, Frederick, MD plastic surgeon Dr. Henry Garazo invites you to explore your options through a patient consultation. To schedule a consultation at Plastic Surgery Services, contact us online or call (301) 791-1800.
References »
Yang, Huanla. (2023). Research on the Application of Mini Facelift in Facial Plastic Surgery. Dermatological Health. 1. 14-18. 10.26689/dh.v1i2.5363.
Rohrich RJ, Novak M. Male Face-Lift Finesse. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2023. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000009839.
Rousso DE, Adams AS. Nuances in Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System Rhytidectomy. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America. 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.fsc.2020.03.010.
Quatela V, Montague A, Manning JP, Antunes M. Extended Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System Flap Rhytidectomy. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America. 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.fsc.2020.03.007.
Bater KL, Ishii LE, Papel ID, Kontis TC, Byrne PJ, Boahene KDO, Nellis JC, Ishii M. Association Between Facial Rejuvenation and Observer Ratings of Youth, Attractiveness, Success, and Health. JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery. 2017. doi: 10.1001/jamafacial.2017.0126.