For a time, the facelift seemed to be culturally dead, or at least dormant and less-discussed than Botox, filler and laser treatments. But when Kris Jenner debuted her new facelift in May, it piqued a lot of new interest in the procedure.
Cosmetic plastic surgeons have never stopped recommending facelifts for difficult-to-remedy cosmetic problems like jowls, but patients rightfully want to avoid surgery if it seems there are other less-invasive options.
Generally speaking, a facelift can address many different issues, including sagging, excess skin, nasolabial folds and deep frown lines and wrinkles. Determining whether a facelift is the best course of action can only be achieved by a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. Once a facelift has been recommended by an expert, there’s still a lot of research to do before going under the knife.
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What to Know Know About Getting a Facelift, According to a Facial Plastic Surgeon
Board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Amir Karam, M.D., and founder of KaramMD Skin says “getting a facelift is a significant decision, as it can have dramatic effects on your appearance, both positive and negative. The consequences of a poorly executed procedure can mean living with a noticeable change in your appearance and identity, along with visible signs of having had ‘work done.’ “
What’s the Most Important Thing to Consider When Getting a Facelift?
It’s crucial to understand your reasons for your wanting to get a facelift, Dr. Karam says. “Most people who pursue a facelift simply want to look as young as they feel. As long as their expectations are reasonable, restoring a look that aligns more closely with their inner vitality, those goals can often be achieved with the right surgeon.”
The second most important thing is finding the best surgeon, he says. “Someone who can deliver results that meet your expectations while minimizing risks and complications.”
What Is the Best Way to Find a Qualified Surgeon?
The minimum is a board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Karam says. “However, this alone doesn’t guarantee a surgeon is skilled in facial surgery. A good facelift surgeon needs a combination of talent, experience and the use of techniques that lead to successful, natural-looking outcomes.”
He recommends looking for a surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation and performs facelifts regularly, ideally at least once or twice a week.
“This frequency suggests a high enough demand for their work and indicates specialization,” Dr. Karam says. “In my practice, for example, I perform six facial rejuvenation procedures each week. This is my sole focus.”
Review a lot of before-and-after photos, not just a handful, to determine whether the aesthetic matches your vision, Dr. Karam says. “Ideally, the surgeon has been practicing for five to ten years or more and has built a strong portfolio of consistent outcomes.”
What Should You Ask During Your Facelift Consultation?
“During the consultation, ask about the specific technique they use, where the procedure is performed and whether it’s a fully accredited and safe environment,” he says.
“It’s also important to assess your rapport with the surgeon. They don’t need to have the warmest bedside manner, but you should feel comfortable and trust them. This is especially important in case any issues arise postoperatively. Finally, ask about safety protocols—how complications are managed, how anesthesia is administered, and what contingency plans are in place for serious issues.”
What Should You Expect to Pay for a Facelift?
The average cost of a facelift is $11,395, according to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. But this price may not include anesthesia or operating room facilities and there could be other related expenses. But it’s dangerous to let the cost determine your decision, Dr. Karam says. “Choosing a surgeon based solely on cost often leads to disappointment and a desire for revision surgery.”
However, “there isn’t always a direct, proportional relationship between cost and quality,” Dr. Karam says. “Sometimes, you may find a talented and properly trained surgeon who is still building experience and therefore offers more affordable rates. If their work demonstrates consistent results and aligns with your aesthetic goals, they may be a great choice.”
Still, he says, the most experienced and specialized surgeons tend to charge more due to their ability to produce more natural and consistent outcomes.
Is it Better to Get a Facelift When You’re Younger or When You’re Older and Your Concerns Are More Pronounced?
Dr. Karam usually recommends getting a facelift earlier in the aging process, when you first notice signs of laxity.
“There are two key reasons for this,” he says. “First, you get to enjoy the results for a longer period without watching your face continue to sag. Second, it is easier to restore youthful contours when the changes are still relatively mild. If your appearance starts to bother you early in the aging process, that is usually a good time to begin considering a facelift. I am a strong advocate for early intervention for these reasons.”
Who Should Not Get a Facelift?
A facelift is not recommended for anyone with significant medical issues, such as cardiovascular disease. Conditions like type 2 diabetes can affect the healing process, and smoking presents major risks.
“All forms of nicotine use, including vaping, patches and gum, must be stopped at least eight weeks before surgery. Continued use can impair healing and increase complication rates,” Dr. Karam says.
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