Undergoing a facelift (rhytidectomy) can be life-changing. The surgery offers dramatic improvement in facial appearance, specifically loose skin and wrinkles, boosting your confidence and overall happiness.
One of the most common questions our patients ask is how long will the results last? The longevity of a facelift depends on several factors, including the type of surgery, your skin type, and how well you care for your face after surgery.
Let’s explore the details to help you understand what to expect in the long term.
What Is Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy)?
A facelift is a cosmetic surgery procedure aimed at reducing the visible signs of ageing on the face and neck. The procedure typically targets sagging skin, deep creases, and loose tissue to create a firmer, younger-looking appearance.
Deep Plane Facelift vs. Traditional Facelift
There are different types of facelift surgery, but the deep plane facelift is considered one of the most advanced for dealing with excess skin and the effects of gravity.
Unlike the traditional SMAS facelift, which only lifts the skin, the deep plane facelift technique targets the underlying facial muscles and soft tissues, offering more natural and long-lasting results.
The Longevity of a Deep Plane Facelift
One of the main benefits of a deep plane facelift is that it lasts significantly longer than a traditional facelift. Most patients can enjoy the effects for 10 to 15 years before they begin to notice signs of ageing again.
This is because this type of facial surgery repositions the underlying tissues, rather than just tightening the skin.
Facelift Results and Ageing
While a facelift operation offers an immediate improvement, it’s essential to remember that it doesn’t stop the natural ageing process.
Over time, your skin will continue to lose elasticity, and your facial tissues will loosen. Following a deep plane facelift, however, the results are more enduring compared to other procedures.
What Influences Facelift Longevity?
Several factors can affect how long your facelift results last:
- Skin type: Individuals with thicker skin tend to enjoy longer-lasting results.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive sun exposure, and poor skincare can shorten the lifespan of your facelift.
- Age at surgery: Younger patients tend to have more durable results because their skin and facial tissue are more resilient.
- Procedure type: The deep plane facelift surgery offers the longest-lasting results compared to traditional facelifts or mini-lifts.
How to Extend the Results of Your Facelift Procedure
While your facelift results are long-lasting, there are ways to maintain them for even longer:
- Skincare routine: Moisturise daily and use sun protection to prevent skin damage.
- Healthy lifestyle: Eat well, exercise, and avoid smoking to keep your skin firm and healthy.
- Cosmetic procedures: Non-surgical treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections, fillers, and eyelid surgery can help maintain a youthful appearance without the need for further face lift surgery.
Comprehensive Rejuvenation Treatment Options
If you’re seeking even more dramatic results, combining your facelift with other surgeries such as a neck lift, brow lift, or blepharoplasty can enhance your overall appearance.
These cosmetic procedures can be performed at the same time as your facelift, offering comprehensive rejuvenation.
Are There Risks and Side Effects Associated with a Facelift?
Like any surgery, a facelift comes with possible complications. These can include bruising, swelling, and concerns related to sutures, stitches and incisions.
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon such as the Harley Clinic in London can significantly reduce these risks.
What to Ask Your Surgeon During Your Facelift Consultation: Procedure, Recovery Time, Possible Complications
During your initial appointment, you’ll want to ask your plastic surgeon in-depth questions the the surgical procedure.
You’ll want to know more about your doctor’s surgical technique, facelift recovery time, healing process, pain relief, scars, plus risks and complications that apply to you.
Final Thoughts on Facelift Benefits
In summary, a facelift can offer life-changing results, helping you achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance. While the results are long-lasting, you can take steps to ensure they endure even longer by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking care of your skin. If you’re considering a facelift, understanding the procedure and its potential benefits is crucial for making an informed decision.
