How Long Does a Facelift Last?
When contemplating a facelift, one of the most common questions people tend to ask is: how long does a facelift last? After all, it’s only natural to want to know the longevity of the results before committing to a costly surgical procedure.
On average, the results of a facelift can last from 10-12 years – however it’s important to note that factors such as lifestyle choices, age, and your skin’s condition will all play a role in how long your results last.
In the following comprehensive article, we’re going to explore the factors that influence the duration of a facelift, the different types of facelifts available, and ways to maximise the longevity of your facelift results. Let’s take a look!
What is a facelift?
A facelift procedure, also known as rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate and revitalise the appearance of the face by addressing visible signs of ageing, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and volume loss. The primary goal of a facelift is to restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance, enhancing your self-confidence and overall quality of life.
During a facelift procedure, the surgeon makes carefully placed incisions, typically along the hairline and around the ears, to access the underlying facial structures. Once the incisions are made, the surgeon repositions and tightens the muscles, removes or redistributes fat, and trims away excess skin. The skin is then redraped over the new facial contours, and the incisions are closed with sutures or other surgical adhesives.
There are several types of facelifts, ranging from less invasive mini facelifts to more comprehensive full facelifts and deep plane facelifts. The choice of technique will always depend on your own unique needs, goals, and the extent of the ageing concerns you wish to address. It’s important to note that a facelift is a surgical procedure that carries inherent risks and requires a period of recovery, just like any other surgical procedure. However, when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon, a facelift can provide long-lasting, natural-looking results, and can significantly improve your appearance, confidence, and overall self-esteem.
Different types of facelifts and their longevity
When it comes to facelift procedures, there are several different techniques that a surgeon can employ; these different techniques can have varying impacts on the longevity of the facelift results:
Mini facelift
This type of facelift, also known as a “weekend facelift,” focuses on the lower third of the face and the jawline; it involves smaller incisions and shorter recovery time compared to a traditional facelift. While the results of a mini facelift can be impressive, they are generally not as long-lasting as a full facelift; patients can expect the results to last anywhere from 2-5 years.
Full facelift
A full facelift, also known as a traditional or standard facelift, addresses the entire face, including the forehead, midface, and lower face; this procedure is more invasive and has a longer recovery time than a mini or mid facelift. The results of a full facelift are typically longer-lasting, with patients enjoying their rejuvenated appearance for 7-10 years or more.
What are the benefits of a facelift?
If you’re experiencing a lack of confidence due to visible signs of ageing, a facelift can offer numerous benefits for your complexion. Some of the most notable advantages of undergoing a facelift procedure include:
Reverse visible signs of ageing
One of the primary benefits of a facelift is its ability to effectively address and reverse multiple visible signs of ageing, such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, jowls, and loss of facial volume. By tightening the underlying facial structures and removing excess skin, a facelift can create a smoother, more toned, and youthful appearance.
Long-lasting results
Compared to non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments – such as dermal fillers or Botox – a facelift offers longer-lasting results, and can take 10-15 years off your face. Depending on the patient’s age, skin quality, and type of facelift performed, the results can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more, making it a more durable solution for addressing the ageing process.
Natural-looking outcomes
When performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon, a facelift will provide natural-looking results that enhance your overall appearance – without giving the impression of having undergone a surgical procedure. The goal is to create a refreshed and rejuvenated look that aligns with your own unique facial features and aesthetic preferences, so you don’t need to worry about resembling an ageing celebrity filled with botox. You can take a look at our facelift before and after photos gallery to see just how natural the results of a facelift can be.
Boost in self-confidence
The improved facial appearance resulting from a facelift can lead to a significant boost in self-confidence and self-esteem, which can be especially revolutionary for women going through the natural ageing process.
Customisable treatment
A facelift can be tailored to address your own specific concerns and aesthetic goals; there’s no “one-size-fits-all” facelift. With various types of facelifts available, ranging from less invasive mini facelifts to more comprehensive full facelifts, you can work closely with your plastic surgeon to develop a personalised treatment plan that meets your unique needs and expectations.
Combined procedures
A facelift can be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as eyelid surgery, brow lift, or a neck lift, to achieve a more harmonious and balanced facial appearance. Combining certain procedures can massively enhance your results, and lead to an even greater boost in self-esteem.
Factors that influence the duration of a facelift
Understanding the variables that affect the longevity of a facelift is crucial; this can allow you to make an informed decision and manage your expectations accordingly. Some of the most significant factors that contribute to the duration of a facelift include:
Age and skin quality
Your age and skin quality are two significant factors when it comes to the longevity of a facelift; younger patients with good skin elasticity tend to experience longer-lasting results, while older patients with poor skin quality may find that their facelift results don’t last as long as they had hoped.
The surgeon’s expertise and technique
The skill and expertise of the surgeon performing the facelift are also essential factors in determining the duration of the results; a highly experienced and skilled surgeon can provide longer-lasting, more natural-looking outcomes.
The type of facelift performed
As we discussed already in this article, there are various types of facelifts available, each with its own set of benefits and limitations; depending on the type of facelift performed, the longevity of the results may vary.
Lifestyle and post-operative care
Your lifestyle choices and commitment to post-operative care also play a significant role in the longevity of their facelift results; those who maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow their surgeon’s aftercare instructions tend to experience longer-lasting results.
FAQs
What is the best age to have a facelift?
There is no definitive “best age” to have a facelift, as the ideal timing varies from person to person based on individual factors such as genetics, skin quality, and lifestyle. Generally, candidates for a facelift start considering the procedure in their 40s to 60s when the signs of ageing become more apparent. It’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess your unique situation and determine the most appropriate time for you to undergo a facelift.
What age is “too late” for a facelift?
No age is considered “too late” for a facelift. The decision to undergo a facelift is highly subjective and will depend on a variety of factors, such as overall health, skin quality, and budget. In fact, some patients can undergo facelift procedures well into their 70s or even 80s, provided they are in good health and have realistic expectations. As with any surgical procedure, it’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your unique circumstances and determine whether a facelift is a suitable option for you.
What happens 10 years after a facelift?
Ten years after a facelift, your skin will continue to show signs of ageing, as the procedure cannot halt the natural ageing process. That being said, your skin will likely still appear younger and more refreshed than if you had never undergone the facelift. When it comes to the longevity of facelift results, this will vary from patient to patient, but is typically influenced by factors such as your age, skin quality, and lifestyle choices. To maintain the results of a facelift, try to follow a healthy lifestyle, practise diligent sun protection, and consider non-surgical maintenance treatments, as recommended by your plastic surgeon.
