If you’re bothered by visible signs of facial aging, especially in areas of the lower face or neck, you may have considered pursuing facelift surgery. This popular procedure is known throughout the world for its ability to tighten and smooth the skin of the face. Today’s advanced techniques also lift and improve the integrity of the underlying facial structures, creating results that look natural and last much longer. As a New York facial plastic surgeon, I see patients of many ages and from diverse backgrounds. Good candidates for a facelift procedure often show physical and emotional signs that indicate it may be the right time to pursue facelift surgery.
The Physical Signs
Facelift surgery is a wonderful option for age-defying facial rejuvenation, but I emphasize that it primarily focuses on the lower portion of the face—specifically, the lower two-thirds of the face. When I evaluate a prospective patient for facelift candidacy, I look for the following symptoms:
- Loose skin along the lower face and neck, causing jowling or a loss of definition
- Sagging cheeks that appear to lose youthful contour and volume.
- Fine lines or deeper folds along the lower portion of the face
It’s also important to consider the degree of these aging changes. Facelift surgery does not permanently stop the aging process, however, a well-done facelift can “reset the clock” and make the face appear 10-15 years younger. Different types of facelifts are used to rejuvenate patients with different degrees of aging changes. Mild jowling, for example, may be treated by a less invasive procedure, such as a mini facelift. More significant aging changes would require an advanced facelift procedure.
The Emotional Signs
From the initial fine lines, we begin to see in our 30s to the more advanced changes that occur as the years pass, aging can be a distressing process for many people. Very often my patients say that their outward appearances simply don’t reflect the energy and vitality they feel within. Sagging and downturned features may make them appear tired or even angry, which typically could not be further from the truth.
If these examples sound familiar to you, it might be a good time to begin consulting for facelift surgery. The procedure doesn’t change your appearance or your identity. Instead, a high-quality facelift brings out the younger-looking, more vivacious version of yourself, so you look as good as you feel.
When performing a facelift, my objective is to always respect the patient’s individuality. Each of us is physically distinct from one another, and I fully consider these differences when planning your surgery. By bringing out your unique “best,” rather than altering you to look like someone else, I can ensure you achieve the aesthetic look you desire.
Your facial rejuvenation options are plentiful. I’ve created a guide to common facelift techniques and terminology to help you make an informed decision. I want you to feel comfortable and confident with whichever option you select.
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