Facelift
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a plastic surgery operation that lifts and repositions sagging tissue of the lower face and neck through surgical incisions, addressing moderate to severe laxity. It is a true operation—performed under anesthesia, with recovery measured in weeks—and sits in a different tier of intervention from non-invasive tightening treatments such as radiofrequency or focused ultrasound devices.
- Facial surgery
- About 2–4 weeks of visible recovery
- Surgical
Overview
A facelift is usually discussed when the signs of aging go beyond surface texture: jowls forming along the jawline, sagging cheeks, deepening folds around the mouth, and loose skin or banding in the neck. These changes reflect the descent of skin and the deeper supporting tissue, which is why they respond poorly to creams and often only modestly to energy-based devices.
The operation physically repositions tissue and removes excess skin, which is what makes it effective for genuine laxity. It does not, however, change the quality of the skin surface—fine lines, sun damage, and pigmentation need other categories of treatment—and it does not stop aging. Mild, early laxity is more often a conversation about non-invasive tightening, which stimulates collagen with heat for a more modest effect; a facelift is for changes that have gone past that point.
How it works
Most mainstream techniques work on the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), a layer of connective tissue and muscle beneath the skin. By tightening or repositioning this deeper support layer—rather than pulling on skin alone—modern facelifts aim for a more natural and longer-lasting result and avoid an over-stretched look. Incisions typically run around the ear and may extend into the hairline; the operation is usually done under general anesthesia or sedation and takes several hours.
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