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A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a common surgical procedure for both men and women that addresses wrinkles, jowls, excess skin, cheek volume, and skin texture. Learn more today.

LISTEN TO DR. LUIS MACIAS FEATURED ON THE BIG BUTTS NO LIES PODCAST FOR SURGICAL AND NON-SURGICAL FACIAL REJUVENATION OPTIONS

Listen here to Dr. Luis Macias being interviewed by the Big Butts No Lies podcast host for "When Should I Have a Facelift?" This podcast episode covers the following topics:

  • What are non-surgical options if not ready for a Facelift (Morpheus8, Facetite and Renuvion)?
  • When do most patients get a facelift?
  • Where are the scars hidden for a facelift?
  • Are neck lifts part of a facelift procedure?
  • Is fat grafting done during a facelift?
  • Is a mini facelift worth it?
  • Can a facelift be done under local anesthesia?
  • How can lips be augmented as we age?
  • What lasers do you recommend for facial rejuvenation?

What is a facelift?

Our Marina del Rey facelift (rhytidectomy) is a common surgical procedure for both men and women who are beginning to see telltale signs of the aging process. Dr. Luis Macias performs his facelifts with cutting-edge technology, allowing for a more youthful appearance. Known for his natural results, Dr. Macias will address the following during a facelift:

  • Jowls
  • Wrinkles
  • Excess skin on the lower face
  • Cheek volume loss
  • Skin texture issues
Dr. Macias Talking about the difference between facelift and neck lift

What is the Difference Between a Facelift and Neck Lift?

Dr. Macias talking about the placement for Facelift incisions

Where are the Incisions Placed During a Facelift?

Image of Before and after a facelift

What is the Difference Between a Facelift and a Mini Facelift?

Dr. Macias performing facelift surgery

How a Facelift is Performed

Am I a Candidate For Facelift?

The best facelift and deep plane facelift candidates are healthy, non-smoking men and women who want to look younger. It’s also vitally important that our Hermosa Beach patients have realistic expectations about what the procedure can accomplish. It can’t erase all signs of the aging process – but it can allow you to grow older with grace and beauty.

Dr. Macias will perform a detailed evaluation of your facial contours and a thorough review of your medical history during your consultation. He can then make his best recommendations regarding which approach will work best in your unique case.

Smiling middle aged woman tying up hair

What is a Deep Plane Facelift?

Modern cosmetic surgeons are constantly seeking to advance their techniques so that they can deliver results that appear more natural and seamless. The deep plane facelift was born out of this objective. It prevents the client from looking “windblown,” “done,” or “pulled.”

Instead of focusing on just smoothing out the skin layers, many doctors champion the SMAS facelift, which addresses the underlying submuscularaponeurotic system beneath the facial fat. While the SMAS lift improves on the skin-only approach, it still does not go far enough to ensure a natural look in the end.

By contrast, the deep plane facelift adjusts the soft tissue that lies under the SMAS muscles. This works to firm the skin, improve jawline definition, smooth the cheeks, and revitalize the neck from the inside out. Results appear more organic with this approach and tend to last longer. The typical client requesting a deep plane facelift is between 40 and 70.

How Does it Differ From Traditional Facelift Surgery?

While the SMAS facelift is held up as a superior option to its superficial counterparts, it may still result in a pulled or stretched look that many patients wish to avoid, especially in the hands of a less experienced surgeon. Unfortunately, many of the most serious signs of aging are present below the SMAS muscles.

A deep plane facelift corrects the facial contours as a single unified system rather than in parts. No strain is placed on the facial muscles, and no skin is pulled tight. Rather, the facial tissue below the SMAS layer is repositioned with longer-lasting results. Changes are more subtle yet appear more organic and effortless. Younger clients can undergo this procedure to ward off the gradual signs of aging rather than waiting to address more glaring concerns down the line. Older clients will appreciate the more modern-looking outcome that leaves them refreshed and rejuvenated without the telltale signs of plastic surgery.

What are the Benefits of a Deep Plane Facelift?

  • Creates a more natural, nuanced look
  • Defies detection
  • Reduces recovery time
  • Addresses the signs of facial aging
  • Enhances self-confidence
  • Long-lasting, sustainable outcome

What is a Mid Facelift?

As the name suggests, the mid-facelift is specifically tailored to treat volume loss in the mid-face (cheek) region. The procedure involves making small incisions at the temples just below the hairline and inside the mouth. These incisions allow the surgeon to easily access the soft tissue within and reposition it, reducing signs of skin sagging and instilling the face with definition.

What is a Lower Facelift?

A lower facelift is designed to address the areas of the face that lie below the corners of the mouth. This may include the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jawline, under chin area, jowls, and neck.

The primary goal of this iteration of the facelift is to reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and creases around the mouth. It also aims to remove excess skin from the neck and reduce skin laxity in the jawline and jowls. Once this area has been tightened and redefined, patients experience a huge boost in self-confidence.

What Can I Expect From my Recovery After Facelift?

You can expect a recovery period of two weeks after a facelift in Santa Monica. During this time, you may experience some swelling and bruising. The first sutures are removed within five days, and the rest of the sutures will be removed by day seven, making you ready for the red carpet in two weeks.

How Much Does a Facelift Cost?

Your personal investment will depend on your geographical location and the experience of your surgeon. The fees include costs for the surgeon, facility, anesthesiologist and necessary medical tests.

Why Choose Dr. Macias?

Dr. Luis Macias is an internationally renowned, highly trained, double board-certified plastic surgeon located in Marina del Rey. He understands the importance of natural aesthetic results – especially on your face. As such, he will tailor your procedure to your unique needs, ensuring that your new look far surpasses your expectations.

FAQ

What will my scars look like?

Dr. Macias will place the incisions in discreet locations along your hairline and behind your ears. As such, any resulting scarring will be obscured and extremely difficult to detect once you’ve healed.

Can I drive after the procedure?

No, it is not safe to drive after the procedure due to the effects of the anesthesia. As such, you will need to arrange for a friend or family member to take you home and stay with you for a few days after surgery.

What’s the difference between a traditional and a mini facelift?

A traditional facelift corrects loose skin and lax muscles along the mid to lower face and neck. It’s ideal for patients who want to address more advanced signs of aging. Conversely, the mini facelift is best for men and women who want to correct earlier signs of aging, such as mild sagging along the lower face and neck.

How long before a significant social event should I get a facelift?

It is often recommended that patients undergo a facelift procedure at least 8 to 10 weeks prior to a big event to allow time for the healing process.

Does a mini facelift get rid of jowls?

Yes. A mini facelift can adjust the skin in the lower face to reduce jowling.

Are there non-surgical ways to tighten neck skin or reduce jowls?

Yes. Ultherapy, dermal fillers, and neuromodulators can all have an impact on jowls.

How long do swelling and numbness last after a facelift?

In most cases, the majority of swelling completely dissipates about 6 to 8 weeks following the procedure. However, these effects are at their worst only in the first two weeks and will fade gradually after that.

What should patients look for in before-and-after photos?

When looking at before-and-after photos, patients should always look for signs of consistency (without a boring uniformity). Beyond that, checking that results are symmetrical and that scars are placed in inconspicuous areas is vital.

Will I be in pain after facelift surgery?

It is normal to feel some pain for 2 to 4 days after the surgery. Some patients have difficulty opening their mouths for the first few days. As feeling returns, patients may notice increased itching or shooting pain around the treatment areas.

What type of anesthesia is used during facelift surgery?

As with most cosmetic surgeries, general anesthesia is employed for a facelift to ensure that the patient doesn’t feel any pain throughout the process.

What risks are associated with facelifts?

Some risks associated with this procedure include Hematomas (collecting of blood under the skin), scarring, nerve injuries, hair loss (can be temporary or permanent), and skin loss.

Where does Dr. Macias perform facelift surgery?

Facelift procedures are carried out in our state-of-the-art facility.

How can I prepare for a facelift?

Some steps to get ready for a facelift procedure include:

  • Undergo a blood panel or medical testing
  • Adjust medication usage depending on the practitioner’s recommendations
  • Apply topical products to the face as per the surgeon’s advice
  • Quit or temporarily stop smoking
  • Avoid taking blood thinners, such as aspirin, drugs, and certain herbal supplements.

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