What procedures complement a facelift?

Procedures that often complement a facelift include eyelid surgery to rejuvenate the eyes, brow lift to smooth the forehead, neck lift to enhance jawline definition, and fat grafting to restore lost volume. Non-surgical treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic, dermal fillers, and laser resurfacing can refine skin texture and address fine lines. Combining these procedures can create a more balanced, youthful appearance and extend results. Dr. Sloan can recommend the appropriate options based on your facial features, aging concerns, and desired outcome.

How should I sleep after my facelift?

After a facelift, sleep on your back with your head elevated for at least one to two weeks. This position helps minimize swelling, bruising, and tension on incisions. Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach, as this can put pressure on your face and affect results.

Can I reduce swelling following a facelift?

To help minimize swelling after a facelift, keep your head elevated, use cold compresses as directed, and avoid strenuous activity during the recommended recovery period. Staying hydrated, following a low-sodium diet, and carefully adhering to post-operative instructions also support healing. Swelling is a normal part of recovery and usually improves within a few weeks, though subtle refinements may continue for several months.

Does a facelift differ for men and women?

While the goal of a facelift is similar for men and women—restoring a more youthful, refreshed appearance—the approach often differs. For men, surgeons typically preserve a stronger, more defined jawline and avoid overly tight results to maintain a natural, masculine look. Incisions may also be placed differently to account for shorter hairlines and facial hair. Women’s facelifts primarily focus on enhancing softness and contour while minimizing visible scars.

How should I prepare for facelift surgery?

There are multiple ways to prepare for facelift surgery. Patients are usually asked to stop smoking well in advance, as it can impair healing, and to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, and fish oil. Additionally, arranging for someone to drive you home and help during the first few days of recovery is essential. Dr. Sloan may also recommend adjusting certain medications, getting bloodwork done, and preparing your home with supplies such as ice packs and extra pillows for elevated rest.

Is there an ideal age for facelift surgery?

There isn't a single ideal age, since candidacy mostly depends on individual signs of aging and skin quality rather than age alone. Many patients choose to have a facelift in their 50s or 60s, when jowling and midface sagging become more pronounced, but some pursue it earlier or later depending on their goals and how their skin has aged. A consultation can help determine whether your current concerns and anatomy make now the right time, or whether a non-surgical option might suit you better in the meantime.

What’s the difference between a facelift and a mini facelift?

A traditional facelift can address moderate to significant sagging throughout the lower face and neck through more extensive incisions and tissue repositioning, offering longer-lasting, more dramatic results. A mini facelift uses shorter incisions and targets milder sagging, primarily in the lower face, making it a good option for younger patients or those with early signs of aging. In most cases, mini facelifts involve less downtime and a shorter recovery, but results are generally less comprehensive and may not last as long as those from a full facelift.

When can I wear make-up after a facelift?

Most patients can begin wearing makeup three weeks after surgery, once incisions have closed and any stitches or staples have been removed. Applying makeup too early can increase the risk of irritation or infection near incision sites and result in poor scar formation. When you do resume, using clean tools and gentle, non-irritating products is recommended. Our team can confirm the exact timeline based on your individual healing progress at follow-up appointments.

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Facelift

Quick Facts About Facelift Surgery

Key Benefits: A facelift can reduce sagging skin, deep folds, and jowls to create a smoother, firmer, and more youthful facial contour.

Potential Candidates: Good candidates often struggle with visible skin laxity, jowling, or loss of definition along the jawline and neck, and desire a longer-lasting solution than non-surgical options can provide.

Procedure Details: A facelift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, with incisions along the hairline and around the ears used to lift and reposition underlying tissue.

Cost: Facelift costs can vary depending on the surgical technique used, whether it’s combined with other procedures, and anesthesia and facility fees.

Surgeon’s Expertise: With decades of plastic surgery experience, board certification, and active membership in numerous professional organizations, Dr. Sloan brings a high level of skill and judgment to every facelift procedure.

As you age, your face ages with you, developing deep creases, sagging skin, and unwanted fat deposits. A facelift can help improve these most visible signs of aging by smoothing loose skin on the face and neck, tightening underlying tissues, and removing excess fat. This revitalizing procedure can restore smoother, more youthful, and pleasing contours to the face and neck.

At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Gene Sloan, MD performs facelift surgery to help patients achieve a more youthful facial profile. Well versed in facial procedures and a variety of facelift techniques, Dr. Sloan prides himself on producing natural-looking results for his patients in a warm and comfortable environment.

What Are the Benefits of a Facelift?

A facelift can greatly benefit individuals looking to rejuvenate their appearance. This popular procedure offers:

Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Specifically targets creases around the nose, mouth, and other areas of the face.
A More Youthful Appearance: Reduces visible signs of aging by removing excess skin and tightening underlying tissues, which typically results in a more youthful facial contour.
Long-Lasting Results: Offers more long-term results compared to non-surgical treatments, with effects that can last for many years. You will always look younger than your actual age.
Improved Self-Esteem: Enhances facial aesthetics significantly, which can boost one’s confidence and self-image.
Customizable Outcomes: Tailored to meet individual needs, allowing for a natural-looking enhancement that complements overall facial features.

Our results Before-and-After Gallery

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Who Is a Candidate for a Facelift?

Ideal candidates for a facelift are individuals typically looking to address signs of aging such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of muscle tone in the face and neck. Good candidates should have some skin elasticity remaining to achieve satisfactory results. It is important for patients to be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. A facelift can be particularly suited for those who wish to restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance but find that non-surgical treatments are not as effective.

During a consultation with Dr. Sloan, he can determine if you are a candidate for facelift surgery.

How Is the Facelift Procedure Performed?

A facelift can range from a minimally invasive mini-facelift to a full face and neck lift. It may also be combined with other procedures such as eyelid surgery, brow lift, and skin resurfacing. A facelift is an outpatient procedure usually performed under general anesthesia. Dressings, drains, and sutures are all removed five days after surgery. Discomfort is normally minimal. You will see improvement immediately but it may take two to three weeks before enough swelling and bruising has subsided that you are comfortable in public.

Appearance of surgical scars three months post-op.

How Is Recovery After a Facelift?

Recovery after a facelift often involves a period of downtime and careful management to ensure optimal results. Patients may experience some swelling and bruising, but these side effects generally subside after a couple of weeks. Discomfort felt during the healing process can typically be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Most people feel comfortable returning to normal, light activities within two to three weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions, including keeping your head elevated, avoiding strenuous activities for at least four weeks, and not smoking. Follow-up appointments can also be beneficial to monitor your healing and address any concerns during the recovery phase.

How Long Do Facelift Results Last?

Facelift results ordinarily last around 10 to 15 years, though this can vary based on factors such as age, skin quality, lifestyle, and surgical technique. While a facelift can significantly reduce sagging and restore a more youthful appearance, it cannot stop the natural aging process. Over time, skin may gradually lose elasticity again, but patients usually continue to look younger than if they had never had the procedure. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting skin from sun damage, and following aftercare recommendations can help prolong results.

What Will My Facelift Scars Look Like?

Facelift scars are typically discreet and well-hidden within the hairline, around the ears, and sometimes under the chin. Initially, they may appear slightly pink or raised, but they usually fade over time, becoming thin, faint lines that are barely noticeable. Dr. Sloan uses meticulous techniques to place incisions in natural creases, making scars blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin. Most patients find that, once healed, their scars are difficult for others to detect. Carefully following post-operative instructions, avoiding sun exposure, and using recommended scar treatments help promote optimal healing.

“Just a note to say ‘thanks’ and let you know how much I appreciate you! Your fine attention to detail and your genuine concern have exceeded my expectations. Thank you for your caring nature. Also, your staff has been wonderful and extremely helpful. You all have been a terrific experience.”

S.M.

Can I Get a Non-Surgical Facelift?

Non-surgical treatments offer a way to refresh your appearance without surgery. Options including dermal fillers, BOTOX^® Cosmetic, and skin rejuvenation treatments can smooth wrinkles, restore volume, and lift sagging areas with minimal downtime. Although results are typically less dramatic or long-lasting than a surgical approach, they can provide a more youthful appearance and may suit those with mild to moderate signs of aging. Non-surgical options can also help maintain surgical facelift results over time. A consultation with Dr. Sloan can help determine the best approach based on your goals, skin condition, and desired recovery time.

How Much Does Facelift Surgery Cost?

The cost of facelift surgery can vary depending on several factors, such as:

The extent of the surgery (mini-face, standard, or extended)
Operating time — a second facelift may take longer due to the presence of scar tissue
Additional procedures, such as neck lift, blepharoplasty, fat grafting being performed in conjunction with facelift surgery
Anesthesia, facility, and surgeon’s fees

A personalized treatment plan will be developed following your consultation and a member of our team will provide you with a customized quote. We also offer financing options for qualified applicants through reputable third-party lenders. Available plans help make procedure payments more manageable, thus making facelift surgery more accessible for those who desire an enhanced facial appearance.

Additional Facelift Frequently Asked Questions

What procedures complement a facelift?
Procedures that often complement a facelift include eyelid surgery to rejuvenate the eyes, brow lift to smooth the forehead, neck lift to enhance jawline definition, and fat grafting to restore lost volume. Non-surgical treatments like BOTOX^® Cosmetic, dermal fillers, and laser resurfacing can refine skin texture and address fine lines. Combining these procedures can create a more balanced, youthful appearance and extend results. Dr. Sloan can recommend the appropriate options based on your facial features, aging concerns, and desired outcome.
How should I sleep after my facelift?
After a facelift, sleep on your back with your head elevated for at least one to two weeks. This position helps minimize swelling, bruising, and tension on incisions. Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach, as this can put pressure on your face and affect results.
Can I reduce swelling following a facelift?
To help minimize swelling after a facelift, keep your head elevated, use cold compresses as directed, and avoid strenuous activity during the recommended recovery period. Staying hydrated, following a low-sodium diet, and carefully adhering to post-operative instructions also support healing. Swelling is a normal part of recovery and usually improves within a few weeks, though subtle refinements may continue for several months.
Does a facelift differ for men and women?
While the goal of a facelift is similar for men and women—restoring a more youthful, refreshed appearance—the approach often differs. For men, surgeons typically preserve a stronger, more defined jawline and avoid overly tight results to maintain a natural, masculine look. Incisions may also be placed differently to account for shorter hairlines and facial hair. Women’s facelifts primarily focus on enhancing softness and contour while minimizing visible scars.
How should I prepare for facelift surgery?
There are multiple ways to prepare for facelift surgery. Patients are usually asked to stop smoking well in advance, as it can impair healing, and to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, and fish oil. Additionally, arranging for someone to drive you home and help during the first few days of recovery is essential. Dr. Sloan may also recommend adjusting certain medications, getting bloodwork done, and preparing your home with supplies such as ice packs and extra pillows for elevated rest.
Is there an ideal age for facelift surgery?
There isn't a single ideal age, since candidacy mostly depends on individual signs of aging and skin quality rather than age alone. Many patients choose to have a facelift in their 50s or 60s, when jowling and midface sagging become more pronounced, but some pursue it earlier or later depending on their goals and how their skin has aged. A consultation can help determine whether your current concerns and anatomy make now the right time, or whether a non-surgical option might suit you better in the meantime.
What’s the difference between a facelift and a mini facelift?
A traditional facelift can address moderate to significant sagging throughout the lower face and neck through more extensive incisions and tissue repositioning, offering longer-lasting, more dramatic results. A mini facelift uses shorter incisions and targets milder sagging, primarily in the lower face, making it a good option for younger patients or those with early signs of aging. In most cases, mini facelifts involve less downtime and a shorter recovery, but results are generally less comprehensive and may not last as long as those from a full facelift.
When can I wear make-up after a facelift?
Most patients can begin wearing makeup three weeks after surgery, once incisions have closed and any stitches or staples have been removed. Applying makeup too early can increase the risk of irritation or infection near incision sites and result in poor scar formation. When you do resume, using clean tools and gentle, non-irritating products is recommended. Our team can confirm the exact timeline based on your individual healing progress at follow-up appointments.

If you are interested in a facelift and would like a confidential consultation, contact us today. Or call our Little Rock, Arkansas plastic surgery office at 501-521-2738.