Key Takeaways
- Dr. Wise's preferred technique is the deep plane facelift, which delivers the most durable and natural long-term results.
- Facelift surgery is performed under MAC anesthesia at his Joint Commission-accredited facility and takes two to three hours.
- Most patients can return to society and normal activities within about two weeks after surgery.
- On the first post-surgery day, bandages are removed and patients see their new jawline and neck for the first time.
- Friends and family typically notice a refreshed appearance without suspecting any surgical intervention was performed.
Facelift procedures are generally indicated for individuals with sagging tissues and submental fullness. This includes those experiencing age-related changes in the lower half of the face and neck, who desire tighter structures. These individuals are excellent candidates for a facelift procedure.
In my hands, the most comprehensive technique is the deep plane facelift, which I perform most commonly. I find that the deep plane facelift offers the most durable results, providing long-lasting, natural results and the greatest degree of both facial and neck tightening.
Facelift surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis at our Joint Commission-accredited facility. We use MAC anesthesia instead of general anesthesia for all facelift procedures. The duration of the surgery varies based on what's involved (the techniques used), typically ranging anywhere from 2 to 3 hours.
Techniques and technology have improved significantly over time, allowing for facelifts to require much less downtime than ever before. Now, most patients can integrate back into society and resume daily activities in about two weeks, rather than needing a few weeks or months for recovery.
On the first day post-surgery, we typically have patients return to the office. We remove the bandages, clean the area to ensure everything looks good, and we allow patients to look at themselves for the first time since their procedure. The results are often shocking and amazing, as they can immediately notice an incredible jawline and neck.
The facelift is one of my favorite procedures because the results are truly transformative. Patients often express that they haven’t seen this jawline or neck since they were younger, which boosts their confidence and positively affects how they carry themselves. Most say their family and friends notice their rejuvenated appearance but would never suspect they had surgery, making the transformation even more remarkable.
At the Wise Center for Plastic Surgery, we aim for facelifts to look natural, as if they’ve always been a part of you. Our goal isn’t to change who you are but to enhance your natural identity and create a more youthful, balanced, appearance.
