How is a Facelift Done? A Step-by-Step Look Into This Transformative Procedure

Jun 11, 2025

If you’re starting to explore facelift surgery, you’re not alone. Many people reach a point where topical treatments and non-invasive options no longer deliver the refreshed, youthful look they want. That’s when they begin to seriously consider the long-lasting benefits of a facelift. But how exactly is a facelift done? Understanding the procedure can help you feel informed, confident, and ready to take the next step.

What Does a Facelift Address?

Before diving into the procedure itself, it helps to understand what a facelift can accomplish. While every patient is unique, facelifts generally target:
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Loose, sagging skin around the jawline and neck
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Deep creases around the mouth and nose (nasolabial folds)
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Loss of facial volume
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Jowls or a heavy lower face
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General skin laxity that contributes to an aged appearance
Unlike fillers or laser treatments that provide temporary improvement, a facelift repositions deeper facial tissues, removes excess skin, and creates smoother, more natural contours that last for years.

The Consultation: Your First Step

Every facelift begins with a detailed consultation. This is your chance to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon and discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history. During this appointment, the surgeon will:
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Evaluate your facial structure and skin elasticity

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Discuss your desired outcomes

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Review your medical background and lifestyle factors

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Recommend the best approach based on your unique anatomy

At Gayoso Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, the consultation is a collaborative process. Our goal is to design a treatment plan that feels right for you, both aesthetically and personally. If you’re ready to explore your options now, schedule your consultation today to speak with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.

Preparing for Surgery

Once you decide to move forward, pre-surgical preparations begin. This typically includes:
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Lab work and medical clearance

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Adjusting or pausing certain medications

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Avoiding smoking and alcohol prior to surgery

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Receiving detailed pre-operative instructions

Your surgeon and care team will guide you through each step to ensure you’re fully prepared for a safe, smooth procedure.

Step-by-Step: How a Facelift is Performed

Want to know what to expect for your facelift? Each procedure is customized to the patient’s unique anatomy and goals, but we’ve provided a general outline:
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Anesthesia

Facelifts are typically performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation, depending on your specific surgical plan. Your surgeon will discuss these options with you beforehand to ensure your comfort.
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Incision Placement

Carefully placed incisions are one of the reasons today’s facelifts yield such natural results. Common incision sites include:

  • Along the hairline at the temples
  • Around the front of the ear
  • Behind the ear and into the lower scalp

These incisions allow the surgeon access to underlying tissues while minimizing visible scarring.

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Tissue Repositioning

The surgeon carefully lifts and repositions underlying muscles and connective tissue (SMAS layer). This foundational work creates the refreshed, natural-looking results most patients desire.
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Excess Skin Removal

After the deeper tissues are secured, any excess skin is trimmed away. The skin is then gently re-draped for a smooth, refined contour without tension.
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Closing the Incisions

Once adjustments are complete, the incisions are meticulously closed to support proper healing and minimize scarring.

The Recovery Process

Facelift recovery is generally well-tolerated with proper care. You can expect:

  • Mild swelling and bruising for the first 1-2 weeks
  • Stitches removed within 5-10 days
  • Most patients return to social activities in 2-3 weeks
  • Final results become more apparent as swelling continues to subside over several months

At Gayoso Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, we provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor your healing.

Common Questions About Facelifts

Will I look like a different person?

A properly performed facelift enhances your natural features rather than drastically changing your appearance. The goal is for you to look refreshed and rested, like yourself, just a bit more youthful.

How long do results last?

While a facelift cannot stop the aging process, most patients enjoy their results for 10 years or more. Maintaining healthy skin and a balanced lifestyle can help prolong your outcome.

Is a facelift my only option?

Not necessarily. Some patients benefit from combining a facelift with other treatments like facial balancing, skin resurfacing, or non-surgical injectables. Your consultation will help determine the best combination for your goals.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Choosing to have a facelift is a personal decision that deserves thoughtful consideration. If you’re ready to take the next step, our team at Gayoso Plastic Surgery and MedSpa is here to guide you. Ready to learn more about facelifts? Schedule a private consultation to discuss your unique goals or check out our website for a more in-depth look.

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If you’re curious about a cosmetic procedure or are ready to take the next step and invest in yourself, we’re here to help make it happen. Don’t hesitate to schedule your first consultation with us to get started.

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