Quick Facts About Facelift Surgery

Principle Benefits: More youthful and refreshed facial aesthetic; reduction in wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging; reduction in loose, sagging facial skin.
Treatment Details: Dr. Lintner can perform facelift surgery in-office using local anesthesia or at a hospital using general or IV sedation, based on patient needs and preferences. Incisions are blended into the hairlines for optimal discretion.
Recovery Timeline: Patients can typically resume normal, non-strenuous activities and jobs within 10-14 days; more vigorous activity and exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks.
Cost: The average cost of a facelift at Advanced Aesthetic Surgery is around $11,395, though this figure may not account for things like hospital and anesthesia fees.

Environmental factors (including sun exposure, smoking, smog, etc.) and the aging process can cause skin that was once smooth and tight to become loose and begin to sag.

Dr. Thomas Lintner, one of the region’s most skilled and caring plastic surgeons, offers facelift procedures that are suited to our patients’ individual needs.

What Is a Facelift?
Facelift Benefits
Facelift Candidates
Best Age for a Facelift
The Facelift Procedure
Facelift Results
Facelift Recovery
Facelift Complications
Facelift Scars
Facelift Complementary Procedures
Facelift Cost
Mini Facelift
Facelift Without Surgery
Facelift Alternatives
Facelift Additional FAQs

What Is a Facelift?

Facelift surgery is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure designed to rejuvenate one’s appearance by reducing or eliminating wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin in the lower two-thirds of the face, as well as the upper neck area. This is often referred to as a “full facelift,” and typically produces more natural-looking results, since sections of skin on both the face and neck are tightened and re-draped.

For some younger patients, a mid-face lift and/or cosmetic injectables like BOTOX^{^®} Cosmetic or dermal fillers may be recommended by Dr. Lintner. These facial rejuvenation techniques are less invasive and involve a shorter recovery time. Dr. Lintner will only recommend these alternative procedures if he believes the results will look natural.

Whichever procedure that Dr. Lintner suggests, you can be assured that the recommendation is based on a careful, personalized assessment of facial structure and the condition of the skin on the face and neck. Dr. Lintner wants to produce facelift results that not only make him proud, but also make you happy!

What Are the Benefits of Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery offers many aesthetic advantages for men and women interested in a more rested, well-defined, youthful appearance. Potential benefits of a facelift include:

Diminishing significant signs of aging in the lower two thirds of the face
Lifting and tightening lax skin and sagging tissues along the jawline and upper neck
Correcting deep wrinkles, creases, and folds around the mouth
Removing or repositioning displaced fat
Reducing the appearance of vertical neck bands
Typically long-lasting and natural-looking results

For a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation, incorporating other procedures with your customized facelift treatment plan may help to address signs of aging in the upper face and around the eyes. During a consultation, Dr. Linter can discuss the available options, such as eyelid surgery, a brow lift, and non-surgical aesthetic treatments to offer the most beneficial cosmetic improvement.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Facelift Surgery?

Dr. Lintner can reduce the signs of aging and smooth facial skin with results that look natural and beautiful. Ideal candidates for this procedure typically include individuals who:

Want to reduce signs of wrinkles and/or sagging skin on the face and neck
Are in good overall health
Do not smoke (or have quit smoking at least two weeks prior to treatment with no intention to resume)
Have realistic expectations of what facelift surgery can accomplish
Are close to their ideal weight (if significant weight is lost after the procedure, results can be affected)

In a consultation with Dr. Lintner, he can assess each patient’s unique needs, answer any questions they may have, and help to determine if they are a good candidate for this procedure. Dr. Lintner prides himself on putting the needs of his patients above all else, so if a facelift isn’t the best way to address your concerns, he will recommend an alternative treatment that is more appropriate.

What Is the Best Age for Facelift Surgery?

Although it is common for patients to be curious about the right time to consider a facelift, there is no specific age that is regarded as “best.” The appropriate time to think about the procedure depends on certain factors, such as genetics, lifestyle choices, sun exposure, and health history. Depending on these variables, the rate at which facial skin ages can differ quite a bit from one person to another. Essentially, two people of the same age may not both be ideal for the procedure. To get a better idea of whether or not facelift surgery is right for you, it is best to consult with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Lintner works with each of his patients to find a treatment that best addresses their concerns. If he feels that a facelift is more extensive than necessary to accomplish your unique aesthetic goals, he may recommend non-surgical facial rejuvenation options, like BOTOX^{^®} Cosmetic and/or dermal fillers.

Dr. Lintner and his staff made me feel very relaxed and confident in them. I will definitely recommend them.G.A. Facelift Patient, Woodstock GA

How Is the Facelift Procedure Performed?

Dr. Lintner customizes each facelift surgery based on the goals discussed during the consultation. You can have the procedure either in the hospital with general anesthesia or IV sedation. Another option, which has a shorter recovery, is to have the procedure in the office and under local anesthesia with nitrous oxide. While you are awake and able to speak and know what is going on, we find that patients do very well with this option, provided they are able to get numb (as they might, for example, at the dentist).

During facelift surgery, small incisions are typically made along the hairline and around the ears. Facial tissues and muscles are then gently tightened, and the skin is carefully re-draped. Excess skin is trimmed and removed. The procedure typically takes about three to four hours.

How Long Do Facelift Results Last?

Although the longevity of facelift results can vary slightly, depending on factors such as skin quality and the surgical method employed, patients typically retain their initial outcome for many years. Maintaining a regular skin care routine that involves a moisturizer, daily sunscreen, and other skin health products can often extend the lifetime of your results. Refraining from smoking can also be extremely beneficial.

It is common for patients to notice some minor changes to their results after approximately ten or more years, but these effects can often be addressed with non-surgical treatments such as BOTOX^{^®} Cosmetic or other cosmetic injectables.

View Patient Photo Gallery

What Is Facelift Recovery Like?

Following facelift surgery, there will likely be swelling and some bruising, as well as some discomfort. However, Dr. Lintner takes great care to conduct surgery in a way that results in minimal bruising. Any post-operative pain can usually be alleviated with oral medication. Many patients are able to see noticeable improvement in their appearance as soon as the next morning when bandages are removed, but final results may not be apparent for several weeks due to swelling. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least four weeks, but patients can typically return to their daily routines after about 10-14 days. Any resulting scars should be almost undetectable, since the incisions are carefully placed to be well-hidden along the hairline and ears. Once healing is complete, scars will fade and the skin should be smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking.

Are There Any Complications Associated with Facelift Surgery?

Facelift surgery can be considered safe when performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon; regardless, there is still a degree of risk involved with any type of surgery. Although extremely rare, some complications that could occur with facelift surgery include:

Hematoma
Infection
Unfavorable scarring
Nerve damage
Skin necrosis

To minimize the chance of potential complications, Dr. Lintner conducts a thorough examination of his patients and their health history, prior to surgery. Additionally, he provides patients with detailed pre- and post-surgical instructions to ensure an ideal outcome. Individuals who smoke are often at a higher risk of developing complications after surgery, so Dr. Lintner advises patients to quit smoking at least four to six weeks prior to surgery, ideally with the intention of never resuming the habit.

What Will My Facelift Scars Look Like?

The exact length and location of facelift scars can differ, based on your individual treatment plan. During surgery, Dr. Lintner takes great care to place incisions in a way that will result in discreet scars that are typically unnoticeable, once healed.

Facelift incisions are frequently made within or along the hairline, ultimately helping ensure that resulting scars can easily be hidden. Certain patients may also have a scar that extends down along the natural crease behind the ear, but due to its location, this type of scarring is also quite inconspicuous. Carefully following the aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Lintner can encourage proper healing and help scars fade successfully.

What Procedures Can Complement a Facelift?

There are a number of procedures that can be performed either concurrently with or after a facelift to complement your results. For patients interested in addressing droopy, tired, or puffy-looking eyes, eyelid surgery can help reduce excess skin and fat for a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance. A brow lift specifically targets the forehead and brow arch, lifting the upper portion of the face to reduce wrinkles and create a smoother, more vibrant look. Non-surgical interventions are also often incorporated after facelift treatment to further reduce wrinkles, add facial volume, and/or revitalize tired skin. Our team offers numerous skin care options, including dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and microneedling to help give you glowing, refreshed skin.

How Much Does a Facelift Cost?

The cost of facelift surgery can vary, due to the fact that Dr. Lintner creates a highly customized treatment plan for each patient, but according to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average surgeon’s fee is generally around $11,395. In addition to your surgeon’s fee, the total price of facelift surgery will include a multitude of other variables, including anesthesia, prescription medications, hospital or surgical facility fees, complementary procedures, and more.

For a more accurate and personalized estimate, please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lintner.

To help make the price of facelift surgery more manageable for our patients, we offer financing options through reputable plastic surgery lending companies. Qualified applicants are able to make low monthly payments with little to no interest. If needed, our friendly and knowledgeable Patient Care Coordinator, Sabrina, can help you select the financing plan that best meets your needs.

What is a Mini Facelift?

A mini facelift is a less-invasive surgical approach to facial rejuvenation. Whereas a full facelift usually deals comprehensively with the muscles, skin, and fat of the lower and mid-face regions as well as the neck, a mini facelift is a more conservative approach focused primarily on the lower portion of the face. Typically, mini facelift procedures are performed utilizing smaller incisions, which can lead to reduced scarring and less downtime following surgery. Dr. Lintner can evaluate your candidacy for the procedure during a consultation.

I still get praises 5 years after my facelift! I am comfortable sending all family and friends here, They are in the very best hands!Deborah

Can I Get a Facelift Without Surgery?

Although non-surgical facial rejuvenation options are available, there is no treatment that can adequately provide results that are as extensive, comprehensive, or long-lasting as facelift surgery. Certain signs of aging, such as skin laxity, generally cannot be addressed by cosmetic injectables or other popular non-surgical treatments. Depending on the extent of your concerns, Dr. Lintner can help you determine whether or not surgery is the best way to achieve the outcome you desire. If surgical intervention is not necessary, he will recommend a less invasive alternative.

Are There Effective Alternatives to Facelift Surgery?

As mentioned above, non-surgical options for facial rejuvenation are typically unable to provide the same type of results as facelift surgery. Some more invasive treatments and therapies that Advanced Skin Care offers can help, but nothing really offers the result that can be achieved with a facelift.

Additional Facelift Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Prepare for My Facelift?

There are steps you can take to ensure you are prepared for facelift surgery. For one, you are encouraged to take advantage of the consultation process, as this meeting is an opportunity to discuss the specifics of your upcoming procedure and get to know Dr. Lintner. We also advise you to explore Dr. Lintner’s facelift gallery for a solid understanding of what you can expect with his results.

Furthermore, it is imperative that smokers refrain from smoking for at least two weeks before surgery, as tobacco can complicate proper wound healing. Additionally, certain medications can interfere with the procedure. You will require a ride to and from the hospital or office and for 24-48 hours after your procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Lintner will discuss any other preparation requirements particular to you (such as what to eat and drink the night before surgery, any post-operative instructions, etc).
Will I Need a Neck Lift with My Facelift?

While some choose to undergo both a facelift and neck lift surgery for optimal facial contouring, the “full facelift” technique includes the tightening and re-draping of excess upper neck skin. Moreover, those who undergo a full facelift often do not feel the need to pursue a separate neck lift; however, patients with remaining wrinkles or sagginess beneath the chin may benefit from more in-depth neck lift surgery.
Is Facelift Surgery Painful?

Contrary to what some may believe, facelift surgery is not considered especially uncomfortable due to the precautions taken during and after the procedure. Patients generally experience little to no pain during the procedure itself, as we typically administer nitrous oxide as a sedation method. The recovery period usually involves mild soreness, which can be eased with oral medication.
How Do You Sleep After Facelift Surgery?

Sleeping correctly is an important part of the recovery process for facelift surgery. Patients are directed to sleep on their backs with several pillows, as this elevated position can reduce their chances of rolling over which can irritate their incisions and affect their final result. Sleeping in an upright position can also prevent excessive swelling.
How Long Does Tightness Last After Facelift Surgery?

You may notice a “tightened” effect in your facial expression for the first two to three months following your procedure. This is a normal reaction to the swelling and not typically cause for alarm. The tight feeling should gradually subside as you heal, and in turn, your final results should begin to appear.
How Can I Reduce Swelling After a Facelift?

To help reduce swelling after facelift surgery, we recommend keeping your head and neck elevated, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and sodium. A cold compress or ice pack—used in moderation—can also help reduce inflammation, though patients should be careful to use them only as directed by their surgeon. In general, some degree of swelling is inevitable after surgery, but adequate rest and a careful adherence to your aftercare instructions can help expedite the healing process and keep you feeling as comfortable as possible during your recovery.
What Should I Eat After a Facelift?

For the first few days after facelift surgery, Dr. Lintner encourages patients to eat a primarily liquid or soft food diet. Protein drinks, smoothies, and broths provide an excellent source of nutrition while helping to reduce nausea and limit facial movement. It is also best to avoid foods that are high in sugar or sodium, as this can contribute to swelling. Most patients are able to begin eating normally within 3-7 days after surgery, though particularly chewy or difficult to eat foods should still be avoided. Dr. Lintner can provide you with more personalized dietary recommendations during your consultation.
What type of anesthesia is used during a Facelift?

In most cases, facelift surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under either general or IV anesthesia. However, in certain cases, Dr. Lintner may be able to perform facelift surgery as an in-office procedure using local anesthesia. He can discuss the different options with you during your consultation.
How can I speed up healing after a Facelift?

The foremost way to ensure your healing process goes as smoothly as possible is to follow all of Dr. Lintner’s post-surgical instructions and attend your follow-up appointments. We also recommend getting plenty of rest and eating a nutritious, protein-filled diet to ensure your body is properly equipped for recovery.
How can I maintain my facelift results?

The rejuvenating results of a facelift can last for many years—sometimes even decades. However, the natural aging process and other factors such as genetics still play a role over time. It is important to commit to a healthy diet, good hydration, consistent exercise, and quality skin care in order to best protect the health of your facial skin and the longevity of your facelift results.

While the natural aging process will continue, there are also a variety of non-surgical options that can help preserve or enhance the results of a facelift procedure over time. These can include laser treatments for improved skin tone and texture; neuromodulator injections to reduce wrinkles and fine lines in the upper areas of the face; dermal fillers to restore volume loss; and microneedling to produce more collagen and elastin for firmer, tighter skin. During your consultation, Dr. Lintner may discuss these additions as part of a treatment plan to create or maintain an optimal facelift outcome.
Will my facelift results look natural?

When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, the results of a facelift typically look exceedingly natural, while still maintaining the unique character of the patient’s face. Dr. Lintner is extensively experienced in facial rejuvenation and advanced surgical techniques, tailoring each procedure to account for an individual’s age, skin elasticity, anatomy, musculature, and tissues to create a more youthful aesthetic without looking “pulled” or overdone.

Contact Us

Contact Advanced Aesthetic Surgery today to schedule a facelift consultation with cosmetic surgeon Thomas Lintner, MD.

*Individual Results May Vary