A facelift can last 10 years or more, but its longevity varies with many individual factors. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, I thoughtfully tailor each facelift to your unique anatomy and aging patterns to achieve the most natural-looking, long-lasting results.
So, if you’re wondering exactly how long a facelift lasts, let’s take a closer look at the specific variables that influence longevity.
What Affects Facelift Longevity?
Just as every face ages differently, the longevity of a facelift varies from person to person based on a variety of factors, including:
- Your natural skin quality and elasticity
- The surgical technique used
- Lifestyle habits such as sun exposure and smoking
- How well you maintain your skin over time
I assess these factors during your consultation to recommend the best approach and help you understand what to expect from your procedure and long-term results.
Understanding Results by Technique
The best facelift approach is never “cookie-cutter.” Instead, I carefully tailor your surgery to your unique facial anatomy, specific aging concerns, and individual aesthetic goals. Some techniques address surface-level aging only, while others reposition deeper tissues at the root of facial aging. The procedure is often paired with a neck lift to refine the full face and neck area.
To gain a realistic idea of longevity, let’s explore each facelift technique in more detail.
How long does a mini facelift last?
A mini facelift addresses early signs of aging, typically along the lower face and jawline. Because it involves smaller incisions and less internal lifting, results are more subtle and usually last around 5 to 7 years. It’s an excellent option for patients who want improvement with less downtime, but it does not provide the durability of more advanced techniques.
How long does a SMAS facelift last?
A SMAS (traditional) facelift targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, the supportive layer beneath the skin. By tightening this layer instead of simply pulling the skin, results often appear more natural and can last 10 years or longer. This technique is ideal for patients with moderate facial sagging.
How long does a deep plane facelift last?
A deep plane facelift releases and repositions deeper facial ligaments and tissues more comprehensively, while maintaining your natural facial expressions. Because the lift occurs beneath the SMAS, it restores volume and contour without tension on the skin. Many patients experience results that last 10 to 15 years or more.
A Signature Facelift for Enduring Results
My Signature Facelift is designed to deliver results that look natural and stand the test of time. It combines advanced techniques, such as a deep plane facelift and fat grafting, with other thoughtfully chosen procedures to rejuvenate the entire aging face.
For example, for some patients, a facelift paired with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), a brow lift, and laser skin resurfacing creates a seamless, refreshed appearance. Deeper repositioning and strategic pairing of procedures creates structural harmony and results that age beautifully over time.
Preserving Your Facelift Investment
While your surgeon’s technique has a significant impact on how long your facelift lasts, your daily habits also play an essential role in preserving your results. I recommend:
- Protecting your skin from sun exposure with daily SPF and hats when outdoors
- Avoiding smoking, which can accelerate skin aging and slow healing
- Maintaining a stable, healthy weight to prevent stretching or laxity over time
- Following your provider’s recommended skincare plan
- Scheduling med spa treatments to maintain your refreshed look, such as facials, chemical peels, and injectable fillers
A long-lasting facelift begins by selecting a highly qualified facial plastic surgeon for your transformation and continues with prioritizing your skin care and overall health through at-home care and professional “touch-ups.”
Get Started
As a specialist in natural-looking full-face rejuvenation, I focus on achieving elegant, balanced results that help you look and feel like your best self. I encourage you to request a consultation using the online form or by calling our practice at (949) 209-1622. Together, we’ll tailor a treatment plan that leaves you feeling refreshed and confident for years to come.
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