Natural-Looking Results
Deep-plane technique lifts underlying tissue rather than pulling skin, so you look refreshed and rested—never overdone.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift—medically known as rhytidectomy—is the gold standard in facial rejuvenation surgery. The procedure targets the most visible signs of aging in the lower two-thirds of the face: sagging skin, deep nasolabial folds, jowling along the jawline, and loss of muscle tone in the midface and neck.
Dr. Shah performs facelifts using a deep-plane technique that repositions the underlying SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer rather than simply pulling skin tight. This approach produces results that look natural, age gracefully, and last significantly longer—typically 10 to 15 years—than older skin-only methods.
Unlike non-surgical treatments that offer temporary improvement, a facelift addresses the structural causes of facial aging. By lifting and repositioning the deeper facial tissues, Dr. Shah restores youthful volume to the cheeks, eliminates jowls, and redefines the jawline while preserving the natural movement and expression that make your face uniquely yours.
Procedure Details
- Duration 3-5 hours
- Anesthesia General
- Recovery 2-3 weeks
- Results 10+ years
Why Choose This Procedure
Transformative Benefits
Long-Lasting (10-15 Years)
Results turn back the clock by 7-10 years and continue to look natural for a decade or more.
Restored Confidence
Patients consistently report feeling more confident when their face matches how youthful they feel inside.
Board-Certified Expertise
Every incision is placed within natural creases by a board-certified plastic surgeon to minimize visible scarring.
Is This Right for You?
Ideal Candidates
The best facelift candidates are men and women, typically aged 40 to 75, who are experiencing moderate to advanced facial aging and want a long-term solution rather than ongoing maintenance treatments.
- Visible sagging in the midface and jowls
- Deep creases below the lower eyelids
- Loss of definition along the jawline
- Excess skin and fat under the chin
- Good overall health and non-smoker
Your Journey
What to Expect
01
Consultation
During your private consultation, Dr. Shah performs a thorough facial analysis and discusses your goals. He'll explain which technique—full facelift, mini facelift, or mid-facelift—is best suited to your anatomy and desired outcome. You'll receive a personalized surgical plan and have all your questions answered.
02
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Two weeks before surgery, you'll stop blood-thinning medications and supplements. Dr. Shah's team provides detailed pre-operative instructions, arranges lab work, and ensures you have a comfortable recovery plan in place—including a responsible adult to drive you home.
03
The Procedure
Performed under general anesthesia, the surgery takes 3-5 hours. Incisions are carefully hidden within the hairline and natural creases around the ear. Dr. Shah lifts and repositions the deeper SMAS layer, removes excess skin, and closes with meticulous suturing to minimize scarring.
04
Recovery & Results
Most patients return to social activities within 2-3 weeks. Swelling and bruising resolve progressively, with final results visible at 3-6 months. Dr. Shah schedules follow-up appointments at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year to monitor your healing and ensure optimal results.
Recovery Guide
Facelift Recovery Timeline
Every patient heals differently, but here's a general timeline for what to expect after your procedure.
Days 1-3
Rest with head elevated. Moderate swelling and bruising are normal. Prescribed pain medication keeps you comfortable. Drains (if placed) are typically removed within 24-48 hours.
Week 1
First follow-up visit with Dr. Shah. Sutures are removed. Most patients feel well enough for light activity at home. Bruising begins to fade with yellow-green coloring.
Weeks 2-3
Most patients return to work and social activities. Makeup can conceal any residual discoloration. Light exercise (walking) is encouraged to promote healing.
Months 1-3
Swelling continues to resolve. Numbness around incision sites gradually returns to normal. You can resume full exercise and strenuous activity. Results become increasingly apparent.
Months 3-6
Final results are fully visible. Incision lines continue to mature and fade. This is when most patients are thrilled with their outcome—looking refreshed and years younger.
Common Questions
Facelift FAQ
How long does a facelift last?
A well-performed deep-plane facelift typically lasts 10 to 15 years. While the aging process continues, you will always look younger than you would have without the procedure. Many patients find that a single facelift provides satisfaction for the rest of their lives, though some choose a secondary procedure after 10+ years.
What is the difference between a full facelift and a mini facelift?
A full facelift addresses the entire lower two-thirds of the face and neck, with incisions extending from the temples around the ear. A mini facelift uses shorter incisions and targets early jowling and mild sagging—ideal for patients in their 40s with less advanced aging. Dr. Shah will recommend the approach that best matches your anatomy and goals during your consultation.
Will I have visible scars?
Facelift incisions are strategically placed within the hairline and in the natural creases around your ears, making them virtually undetectable once healed. Dr. Shah uses layered closure techniques and fine sutures to optimize scar quality. Most patients report that their scars are imperceptible within 6-12 months.
At what age should I get a facelift?
There's no single "right" age. Most patients are between 45 and 70, but candidacy depends on your anatomy and goals rather than a number. Some patients in their late 40s with significant sun damage benefit greatly, while others wait until their 60s. The key is addressing the changes when they bother you, not waiting for a specific birthday.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes—this is very common. Dr. Shah frequently combines a facelift with a neck lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), brow lift, or fat transfer for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Combining procedures means one recovery period instead of multiple, and the overall result is more harmonious.
What are the risks of facelift surgery?
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, and nerve injury. In experienced hands, serious complications are rare. Dr. Shah's meticulous technique and use of deep-plane methods (which protect facial nerves) further minimize risk. All potential risks are discussed thoroughly during your consultation.
How much does a facelift cost?
Facelift costs vary based on the specific technique used, whether additional procedures are combined, and other factors. During your consultation, you'll receive a detailed, transparent quote that includes surgeon's fees, anesthesia, facility costs, and all follow-up visits. We also offer financing options to make the investment more accessible.
Begin Your Transformation
Discover what's possible with a personalized consultation