Innovative Approach to Facial Rejuvenation

This groundbreaking approach to facial rejuvenation produces a remarkably natural result but is not practiced by all plastic surgeons. The exceptionally natural outcome is achieved by a precision tightening of the deeper facial tissue layers without tension or pulling. The Florida Plastic Surgery Group is the leading cosmetic surgery practice in the region familiar with performing this advanced age-defying lift technique.

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What is a facelift?

A facelift, or “rhytidectomy,” is a surgical procedure used to help turn back the clock and create a more youthful, natural-looking appearance. The effects of the aging process, gravity, and the sun result in a tired look, forming folds around the jaw (jowls), cheeks, and neck. In addition, laxity in the neck muscles as well as fat deposits, give your face an older, tired appearance. A facelift addresses all these issues surgically. The latest techniques, including “deep plane facelift,” can achieve a remarkably natural outcome – you will look like you – never pulled, stretched, or obvious, the ideal surgical result.

The Florida Plastic Surgery Group difference: Leaders in advanced facelift surgery

At Florida Plastic Surgery Group in Jacksonville, your facelift will be performed by a nationally recognized plastic surgeon with a breadth of knowledge and experience in the most advanced techniques. Rather than just removing excess skin, a deep plane facelift elevates the underlying facial structure, allowing the tissues to be lifted without the tension that results in a “pulled” look. 

We are one of the few plastic surgery practices in the area that is familiar with and experienced with this groundbreaking surgical technique. There is no better approach for facial rejuvenation that looks like you – in your younger years.

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Advanced facelift techniques at Florida Plastic Surgery Group

If you’d like to look as good as you feel, a deep plane facelift tightens the underlying muscles, smooths the loose skin on your face and neck, and removes excess fat. As a result, your face will appear younger, firmer, and fresher. A facelift can be performed in conjunction with a brow lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), or fat grafting to restore volume loss in certain areas—such as below the eyes or lips—for a more comprehensive level of facial rejuvenation.

At Florida Plastic Surgery Group, we believe that patients, their desires, and their anatomy are all unique. Therefore, our experienced plastic surgeons evaluate each patient and create a customized surgical plan to meet each patient’s expectations.

Our doctors use the latest techniques, including the advanced deep plane facelift, to achieve a remarkable level of facial rejuvenation to create a natural, younger-appearing you—and not the wind-blown, pulled-back look of older, traditional facelift procedures.

Although the term “facelift” is commonly used to describe a variety of techniques, it is important you understand that not all techniques – or surgeons – are the same. 

Choosing your facelift surgeon: Get educated.

As with any product, including cosmetic surgery, you should make an educated decision when choosing your surgeon and the type of facelift technique. Be cautious of cosmetic surgeons who advertise fast recovery facelifts or those who only specialize in faces, as they may have limited cosmetic surgery training. The information below will provide a complete facelift overview to help you make an educated decision.

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What concerns can facelift surgery treat?

Facelift surgery has been one of the most popular surgical cosmetic enhancement procedures in America for many years. One of the reasons for this is likely its unique ability to take years off one’s appearance and effectively address common signs of aging, ultimately giving the face a more youthful, refreshed look.

The many potential benefits of a full facelift surgery include: 

  • Reduction in signs of wrinkles, fine lines, and creases
  • Reduction of jowls or deepened nasolabial folds (smile lines)
  • Improvement of sagging skin affecting the lower face and neck areas
  • Tightening of lax facial and neck muscles
  • Improvement of displaced fat and lost volume in the midface

Our practice delivers a range of facelift techniques that can address specific concerns in a customized treatment, including the groundbreaking deep plane facelift technique. One of our plastic surgeons will examine you during the initial consultation and talk with you about the benefits of each facelift technique. Once you and our surgeon have determined the best option for your needs, a personalized treatment plan will be developed that is designed to meet your goals and achieve stunning results. 

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Who is a candidate for facelift surgery?

Facelift surgery is typically an excellent option for men and women with sagging skin around their neck and face that results in a tired, older appearance. Ideal candidates include those with good skin tone, a strong bony framework, and elasticity. Patients should also be in good general health and be seen regularly by their primary care physician. In addition, individuals who smoke cigarettes, marijuana, or vaping devices should begin a smoking cessation program, as we ask patients to stop smoking four weeks prior to surgery. The nicotine in tobacco products decreases the blood flow to your skin and results in delayed healing and increased wound complications. 

Deep plane facelift

A deep plane facelift is a surgical procedure performed to rejuvenate the face and address signs of aging. Unlike traditional facelift techniques that primarily target the superficial layers of the skin, a deep plane facelift involves repositioning and tightening the deeper layers of facial tissues. The procedure aims to address sagging skin, jowls, and deep wrinkles by lifting and redistributing the underlying structures, including the muscles and fat pads, to achieve a more natural and long-lasting result. 

By targeting the deep plane, this technique can provide a significant improvement in facial contour while minimizing a result with a pulled or unnatural appearance. With careful surgical planning and skilled execution by our surgeons, a deep plane facelift can help patients achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance with lasting outcomes. Florida Plastic Surgery Group is one of the sole practices in the region, offering this groundbreaking surgical approach. 

Deep-plane facelift with lower eyelid surgery/blepharoplasty

While performing a deep plane facelift it is very common to combine other facial procedures to further rejuvenate the facial appearance.  By removing excess upper eyelid skin weighing down the eyelids improves the bags and tear troughs under the eyes, the overall combined results can drastically turn back the signs of aging.

Deep plane facelift with blepharoplasty offers natural-looking, long-lasting results, addressing facial sagging and eyelid aging, leading to a refreshed, youthful appearance with minimal scarring. The combination of both facelift and eyelid surgery allows for a refreshed look and a complete, natural-looking makeover.

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Preparing for your Deep-Plane facelift

Who is a candidate for a Deep-Plane facelift?

Men and women of all ages with flattened cheeks, prominent folds around their cheeks (nasolabial folds), and the constant appearance of a frown around their mouths, jowls, or lax skin are candidates for a Deep-Plane lift.

How do I prepare for my Deep Plane facelift?

If there are smaller fine wrinkles around your eyes or corners of your mouth, you may benefit from adding a skincare line such as the ZO Skin Healing Products enhance your results and keep you looking young and rested. We frequently combine Halo/BBL laser therapy before or after your facelift procedure to further stimulate collagen production and reduce fine lines/wrinkles or reverse signs of sun damage.

Recovering after your Deep Plane facelift

The mild pain associated with a Deep Plane facelift is generally well-controlled with oral pain medications and usually improves in the first few days. Patients may have bruising around their cheeks, but any bruising resolves within one to three weeks. In addition, patients may feel some tightness around their cheeks and mouth that dissipates as the tissues settle and heal.

Please contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation.

Mini Facelift, Short Scar Facelift, MACS Facelift, S-Lift

A less invasive facial rejuvenation procedure with smaller incisions and faster recovery.

Advantages

  • Minimal recovery time
  • Less bruising
  • Smaller incisions

Disadvantages

  • Not applicable for patients with severe aging

Full Facelift — Extended SMAS, Lateral Smasectomy, Etc.

Provides a complete rejuvenation of the neck and lower third of the face but requires larger incisions and longer recovery time.

Advantages

  • Can rejuvenate the neck and face
  • Can set the aging process back further than minimal techniques

Disadvantages

  • Longer recovery time and bruising
  • Require larger incisions, but all well hidden

For complete facial rejuvenation, ask our Jacksonville cosmetic surgery team whether you are a candidate for the FACIAL ENHANCEMENT package. The package includes a combination of a face/neck lift, mid-face lift, chin lift, and fat grafting to truly create a natural and youthful look.

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What is facial fat grafting?

Facial fat grafting is an innovative cosmetic enhancement technique that can be effective on its own or as an adjunctive treatment along with facelift surgery. Sometimes referred to as “fat injections” or “fat transfer,” this treatment relocates the patient’s own fat cells from one area of the body and injects them into facial areas targeted for rejuvenation. Facial fat grafting can help smooth away signs of fine lines and wrinkles, restore and enhance volume among facial features, and improve overall facial contours. 

The difference between fat grafting and fillers such as JUVÉDERM® and others is that a portion of the fat transferred will last a lifetime, whereas 100% of the filler will go away. 

Learn more about fat injection rejuvenation

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How is the facelift procedure performed?

Depending on the particular needs of the patient, a facelift is generally performed through an incision around the natural contours of the ear that extends toward the back of the neck. The deeper facial structures are contoured, and then the skin is re-draped or tightened. This provides longer-lasting results than a skin-only tightening procedure and prevents the wind-blown, swept appearance of many “quick lift” facelift techniques. Any excess fat and skin are also removed at this time. An incision under the chin may also be necessary to remove excess fat and tighten the muscles of the neck. See above for more information about the different facelift techniques.

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What is the facelift recovery process like?

The bandages are removed within the first few days, and the stitches are generally taken out 1 week after surgery. As the incisions continue to heal, they will become more imperceptible and generally can be covered with makeup after around 2 to 3 weeks. Patients typically return to work after 2 weeks. Your skin may be numb after the surgery, but this resolves in the weeks following surgery. A temporary drain may be placed and if so is generally removed in the office within a week.

Will I have visible facelift scars?

The extent of scarring from a facelift procedure will depend on the particular type of technique that is performed; however, it is important to note that today’s advanced facelift options typically do not result in significantly noticeable scarring. Even with a full facelift procedure, the incisions are usually placed in very inconspicuous areas within the hairline and behind the ear. This can lead to residual scars that are easily hidden or virtually undetectable. 

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How much does a facelift cost? 

The total cost of a facelift is unique to each patient and ultimately depends on a variety of factors. The technique utilized, the complexity of the surgery, facility and anesthesia costs, the surgeon’s fee, and other associated expenses will be taken into account. Here at Florida Plastic Surgery Group, the price of facelift surgery typically falls in the $9,999 to $15,999 range based on whether the rejuvenation is primarily focused on the face or if neck rejuvenation and if fat grafting is included, as well. 

It’s important to remember that the price is greatly dependent on the technique performed and each patient’s individual treatment plan. Our practice believes that you should have a full, upfront estimate of the total cost as early as possible so you will know what to expect. That’s why we produce an estimate that includes all associated cost factors at your initial consultation once your treatment plan has been established. 

At this time, a member of our team will go over the details with you and answer your questions regarding payment options. If you are interested in financing your procedure, we work with plastic surgery financing companies that offer an array of monthly payment plans to qualified applicants looking for flexible ways to bring this treatment into their budget. 

How long does a facelift last?

Facelift surgery can yield results that last for several years. With that in mind, it is important to remember that, as the natural aging process continues, the facial skin will still be subject to the development of inelasticity in the future. Even so, facelift patients who take excellent care of their skin and their overall health can often maintain results for very long periods of time. 

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Is a facelift without surgery possible?

If you are looking to avoid surgical intervention, or if you may not yet need surgery to achieve your facial rejuvenation goals, there are non-surgical alternatives available that may be right for your needs. While these procedures cannot produce results that are as significant or as long-lasting as facelift surgery, they can often provide effective treatment and beautiful outcomes. 

Liquid facelift

One of the more popular alternatives is what’s known as a “liquid facelift,” which combines a number of cosmetic injectables to comprehensively enhance facial areas and address signs of age, volume loss, and other concerns. A single injectable, rather than a combination of injectables, can also often be helpful for individuals who may not need a full liquid facelift but wish to improve specific signs of age such as crow’s feet, sunken cheeks, nasolabial folds or other issues. Our practice offers a range of popular dermal fillers and injectables for these types of treatments. 

Microneedling

Skin microneedling, also referred to as collagen induction therapy, can serve as a beneficial alternative to facelift surgery for some patients, as well. This procedure is designed to help the skin produce new collagen and rejuvenate itself from the inside out. Microneedling can be performed on its own or combined with platelet-rich plasma therapy for even more significant results. Our plastic surgeon can go over your options during the initial consultation and help you determine the best course of action for your needs and goals. 

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Combining facelift surgery with complementary procedures

A facelift can be combined with several other treatments to address concerns affecting the upper areas of the face or to enhance the overall results further and create a more comprehensive aesthetic makeover. 

  • Eyelid surgery: An option such as eyelid surgery can beautifully improve signs of aging and exhaustion around the eyes, while brow lift surgery can smooth out furrows between the brows and reduce the appearance of creases along the forehead. 
  • Lip augmentation: Enhance your lip volume, definition, and visual appeal with custom lip augmentation for a refreshed, youthful pout.
  • Fat grafting: For those who have diminished natural facial fat, a custom fat transfer procedure can be combined with a facelift, restoring volume beneath the eyes, at the temples, cheeks, or lips.
  • Halo/BBL laser: To reduce the fine lines/wrinkles and sun damage and increase collagen production.  Usually done before or after your surgical procedures.

Our surgeon can answer any questions you may have about treatments that can serve as ideal complements to facelift surgery. 

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How do I choose the right facelift surgeon?

Choosing a facelift surgeon can be a daunting task, especially when you consider that results aren’t as easily concealed as those with breast augmentation surgery. So, selecting a qualified plastic surgeon is the top priority as you move forward with your facelift decision.

Years of specialized training, along with trust in a competent surgeon, will give you confidence that you’ve chosen a skilled doctor who will treat your case individually. By contacting the doctors at the Florida Plastic Surgery Group, you have access to surgeons who are both experienced in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery and are widely recognized as being among the most talented plastic surgeons in the country.

Facelift consultation — your first step to selecting a facelift surgeon

Evaluating a surgeon for your facelift procedure occurs during the consultation phase. After you have consulted friends and family members who may have had a similar procedure, you’ll want to get recommendations for a particular surgeon. From there, arrange a consultation with the doctor to discuss the specifics of your case and the procedure in general.

During the consultation, you’ll be learning more about:

  • The educational experience of the surgeon
  • Patient recommendations and surgical client testimonials
  • The surgeon’s past procedures through before-and-after photos
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What your doctor should be assessing in your consultation

While you are evaluating the surgeon, the surgeon will determine if you are a good candidate for facelift surgery. Your surgeon must ascertain your expectations from the surgery, evaluate your bone structure, and determine whether additional corrective procedures are needed to provide you with the best possible facelift results. 

  • During the consultation, your surgeon should conduct a few of the following evaluations:
  • Assess your overall health – current medications, herbal supplements, drug allergies, and use of any drug, alcohol, or tobacco products
  • Discuss your current lifestyle
  • Learn why you want a facelift
  • Determine whether you might need or want additional facial corrective surgery, like a forehead lift, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, or skin treatments
  • Take a variety of measurements – facial dimensions, skin thickness, texture, and elasticity

From the information received during the consultation, you’ll have a better idea if the surgeon is qualified to perform the facelift and if you feel comfortable with the surgeon’s bedside manner. After all, this trusted relationship will give you the peace of mind that you are in the right hands. 

Facelift FAQ

Does a facelift always include a neck lift?

How long before I can exercise again after facelift surgery?

Is a facelift different for men versus women?

Are there age limits for facelift surgery?

How can I reduce swelling after facelift surgery?

How painful is a facelift?

How many years younger can I look after a facelift?

Should I get a full facelift or a mini facelift?

Will the facelift results look natural?

Is a facelift covered by insurance?

Does a facelift always include a neck lift?

Whether a facelift includes a neck lift is dependent on the particular needs of each patient and the facelift technique that will be utilized. In most cases, a full facelift procedure (described in its section above) from our plastic surgeons will include a neck lift.

How long before I can exercise again after facelift surgery?

It is typically advisable to refrain from strenuous exercise for at least two weeks following facelift surgery. However, since each individual’s recovery process will be somewhat different depending on the facelift technique utilized and their unique rate of healing, the recommended time to wait before exercising may not be the same for everyone. Our plastic surgeon can give you a more specific recommendation once your customized treatment plan has been developed.

Is a facelift different for men versus women?

There are some distinctions between facelift surgery for male patients and facelift surgery for female patients. Although the procedure is universally designed to diminish signs of age and inelastic skin for a more youthful appearance, facelift surgery is different for men vs. women in a number of ways. Men typically desire outcomes that provide enhanced definition and sharper contours, whereas women often prefer softer results. The surgical techniques themselves are also tailored to the patient’s facial anatomy and skin properties, which is naturally distinct among genders. Because of differences in hairlines, the best incision locations for male patients may not be in the same specific areas as they would be for female patients. For men, particularly those who have very short haircuts and those who may be balding in certain areas, the incisions will need to be strategically placed in regions that can yield the least conspicuous scarring.

Are there age limits for facelift surgery?

Inelastic skin and facial wrinkles can develop very early or much later in a person’s lifetime. While a facelift is often performed in patients in their 40s to 60s, individuals in their 30s and 70s have also undergone the treatment. Whether this procedure is an ideal option is more dependent on an individual’s overall health, the condition of the facial skin, and desired goals rather than age.

How can I reduce swelling after facelift surgery?

Keeping the head in an elevated position during recovery can help reduce swelling after facelift surgery. Certain medications and/or vitamins, as well as ice packs and cool compresses, may also be recommended by our plastic surgeon to help minimize swelling. Our practice will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions with some steps you can take to aid the healing process.

How painful is a facelift?

Full facelift surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so patients should not experience any pain whatsoever during the procedure. It is normal to experience some degree of discomfort while healing progresses after treatment. Fortunately, effects such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort are well-tolerated by most patients and can be managed with medication until they fade away on their own.

How many years younger can I look after a facelift?

While the results of a facelift vary among individual patients, outcomes often create an appearance that looks approximately 8 to 10 years younger. One thing to keep in mind is this: regardless of exactly how many years a facelift can take off your appearance, you should still always look younger than you would have if you never had the procedure. Facial skin will continue to be affected by the natural aging process; however, it’s almost as if the clock has been reset, allowing the skin aesthetic to be years behind what it would normally be. With good at-home skin care regimens, avoidance of smoking, a healthy diet, and protection from the sun’s harmful rays, you can go a long way toward keeping the skin looking youthful and firm for an extended period of time.

Should I get a full facelift or a mini facelift?

Once our plastic surgeon evaluates your skin and talks with you about your goals, he can explore whether a mini facelift may be all that’s necessary to meet your expectations. A mini facelift is a less invasive alternative to a full facelift and typically requires less downtime; however, a mini facelift is generally ideal for patients experiencing less severe signs of inelastic skin and facial aging. Plus, a full facelift can address certain types of aesthetic concerns that a mini facelift cannot improve. Ultimately, the best option will be based on your specific concerns and overall goals for treatment. In many cases, the most effective approach is a deep plane facelift, the groundbreaking technique that creates the most natural-looking outcome.

Will the facelift results look natural?

One of the most prominent goals of our skilled plastic surgeons is to create facelift results that look as natural as possible. To avoid a “wind-blown” or “overdone” appearance, our doctors customize the treatment plan based on the unique anatomical characteristics of each patient and then utilize precise surgical and suturing techniques designed to produce a very natural-looking result, often the deep plane facelift approach. Ultimately, we want to bring out your natural beauty and effectively renew your appearance while minimizing the potential for creating an outcome that looks artificial.

Is a facelift covered by insurance?

All types of facelift surgery are typically considered elective cosmetic procedures and are, therefore, not covered by insurance. With that in mind, our practice accepts numerous payment methods, including plastic surgery financing plans, to allow for the greatest convenience possible when it comes to paying for facelift surgery.

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