Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
What Is a Facelift?
How Does a Facelift Work?
During a facelift procedure:
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Incisions are typically made along the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes under the chin, depending on the areas being treated.
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Dr. Pasha lifts and repositions underlying facial tissues, with conservative removal of excess skin as needed.
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Once the deeper structures are refreshed and strengthened, the skin is redraped smoothly over the contours of the face, and incisions are closed with sutures.
Different techniques exist — including traditional skin-only lifts, SMAS lifts (which address deeper facial support layers), and deep-plane approaches. Dr. Pasha will recommend the method best suited to your anatomy and desired outcome during your consultation.
How long do facelift results last?
A facelift does not stop the aging process, but it can turn back the clock by many years. Most patients enjoy results that last 10 years or longer, depending on skin quality, facial anatomy, lifestyle factors, and the surgical technique used. Aging will continue naturally, but patients typically look younger than they would have without surgery. Many patients never require another facelift, while others may consider a secondary procedure later in life as aging progresses.
Will I look “overdone” or unnatural?
A well-performed facelift should never appear tight, pulled, or artificial. Dr. Pasha’s approach emphasizes repositioning deeper facial structures rather than simply tightening skin, resulting in outcomes that look natural, balanced, and refreshed — not surgical. Friends may notice that you look well-rested without being able to identify why.
What is the difference between a facelift and fillers?
Fillers can restore volume and soften certain lines, but they do not correct sagging tissue or loose skin. In some cases, excessive filler can distort facial proportions over time. A facelift addresses the underlying structural causes of facial aging by lifting and repositioning descended tissues, often providing more durable and comprehensive rejuvenation than injectable treatments alone.
Is a facelift painful?
Most patients describe post-operative discomfort as mild to moderate, rather than painful. Tightness, swelling, and soreness are expected early in recovery and are typically well controlled with prescribed medications. Pain management is reviewed in detail during consultation and post-operative planning.
Will I have visible scars?
Facelift incisions are carefully placed along natural creases, around the ears, and within the hairline to make scars as discreet as possible. Over time, scars typically fade significantly and are well concealed. Dr. Pasha pays close attention to incision design and closure technique to optimize long-term scar quality.
When can I return to work and social activities?
Many patients feel comfortable returning to non-strenuous work and limited social activities within 10–14 days, although some residual swelling may persist. More noticeable swelling and bruising continue to improve over several weeks, with final refinement occurring over a few months. Dr. Pasha will help you plan recovery timing around work, travel, and social commitments.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Facelifts are commonly combined with procedures such as neck lift, eyelid surgery, brow lift, or fat grafting to achieve harmonious facial rejuvenation. Combining procedures can often improve overall balance and may reduce total recovery time compared with staging surgeries separately.
What should I expect on the day of surgery?
Facelift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or deep IV sedation, depending on the extent of surgery and whether additional procedures are performed. The procedure usually takes4 -6 hours, and most patients return home the same day with appropriate postoperative support. Dr. Pasha will review anesthesia options, surgical timing, and recovery planning in detail prior to surgery.
How do I know if I’m ready for a facelift?
There is no specific “right age” for a facelift. Candidacy is based on facial anatomy, degree of aging, and personal goals, rather than age alone. If you are noticing sagging of the lower face or neck and feel that non-surgical treatments no longer provide the improvement you want, a consultation with Dr. Pasha can help determine whether a facelift is appropriate.
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Schedule ConsultationRisks & Considerations
Like all surgical procedures, facelifts carry potential risks, which are minimized when performed by a board-certified and experienced surgeon. Risks may include:
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Temporary or permanent nerve injury
- Infection
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Hematoma (collection of blood beneath the skin)
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Scarring
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Unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome
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Changes in sensation or prolonged swelling
A thorough consultation will help assess your goals, explain individualized risks, and outline strategies to support a safe and smooth recovery.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for a facelift typically:
Are dissatisfied with visible signs of ag ing in the lower face or neck (such as jowls, loose skin, or deep folds) Improve upper eyelid definition Reduce under - eye puffiness or bags Enhance symmetry and balance around the eyes Restore a brighter, more alert look while preserving natural expression
Benefits of a Facelift
A facelift can:
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Smooth deep folds and creases in the lower face
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Reduce sagging around the jawline (“jowls”)
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Tighten lax skin of the lower face and upper neck
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Restore a more defined jawline and neck contour
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Create a refreshed, natural-looking rejuvenation that often lasts longer than non-surgical options
What to Expect During Recovery
After surgery:
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Initial swelling and bruising are normal and generally peak in the first week.
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Most patients are ready to resume light activities within 10–14 days, with continued improvement over the following weeks.
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Final results gradually refine over several months as swelling resolves and scars mature.
Dr. Pasha will provide a detailed recovery plan tailored to your procedure, emphasizing comfort, safety, and optimal healing.