A facelift is a surgical procedure designed to address visible signs of facial aging by repositioning and tightening the skin and underlying support structures of the face and neck. While many patients explore non-surgical treatments earlier in their aesthetic journey, these options primarily help maintain skin quality and slow progression rather than reverse advanced aging changes.
For individuals experiencing significant skin laxity, jowling, and loss of jawline or neck definition, surgical correction is often the most effective way to achieve meaningful, long-lasting rejuvenation. A facelift is particularly well-suited to restoring facial contours and improving neck profile in a natural, balanced manner.
Many facelift candidates also exhibit age-related volume loss, most commonly in the central and lateral cheek regions. Because facial aging involves both tissue descent and volume depletion, fat grafting is frequently incorporated into facelift surgery to restore youthful fullness and enhance overall facial harmony.
Anesthesia
Facelift surgery is performed under either general anesthesia or IV sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual patient needs.
Time Required
The procedure typically requires 4 or more hours, depending on the surgical approach and whether additional treatments are performed concurrently.
Recovery Period
Sutures are generally removed after one week. Most patients may begin applying makeup at approximately 10 days post-procedure. Return to work and social activities is commonly possible within 2 to 3 weeks, although individual recovery timelines may vary.
Surgical Technique
Several facelift techniques may be used depending on the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals. For a full facelift, incisions are carefully placed along the hairline in the temple region, in front of the ear at the natural junction of the facial skin and ear, around the tragus and earlobe, and extending into the posterior hairline. Each incision is meticulously planned to ensure optimal healing and to keep scars as discreet and well-hidden as possible.
Dr. Forbes’ Surgical Approach
Dr. Forbes typically performs either a SMAS plication or a deep-plane SMAS facelift, selecting the technique based on the patient’s anatomy and desired outcome. Each approach offers distinct advantages and considerations.
Facelift surgery is most often combined with fat grafting to restore age-related volume loss and enhance overall facial balance. Additional procedures may be performed at the same time to further refine results, such as skin resurfacing, upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), upper lip lift, or chin augmentation.
Every patient has a unique set of facial characteristics and goals. A comprehensive consultation and personalized surgical plan are essential to achieving the best possible outcome.
The cost varies based on individual needs and the extent of the procedure. A detailed quote is provided during the consultation.
Most patients resume normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, with full recovery and final results visible after a few months.
As with any surgery, risks include infection, scarring, and anesthesia complications. However, complications are rare, and our surgeons take every precaution to minimize them.
Facelift results are long-lasting, often 10 years or more. However, the aging process continues, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle and considering touch-up treatments can prolong the effects.
Discomfort is minimal and managed with prescribed pain relief. Most patients report feeling tightness rather than pain. Swelling and bruising subside within weeks, making recovery relatively smooth.
Preparation includes avoiding blood-thinning medications, smoking, and alcohol for a few weeks before surgery. Your surgeon may recommend specific skincare routines or dietary adjustments to optimize healing.
Discover the difference of exceptional care at Rejuvenation Medical Group in Vancouver. Schedule your consultation today and meet the team dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.
Facelift Surgery in Vancouver | Facelift Vancouver | Vancouver Plastic Surgeon | Vancouver Cosmetic Surgeon
At Rejuvenation Plastic Surgery, your journey is the focus. This is where artistry meets compassion, and your vision takes center stage. Every treatment is tailored to enhance your natural beauty while honoring your individuality, creating results that feel authentically you. From consultation to transformation, the team at Rejuvenation is dedicated to fostering a partnership where you are empowered, heard, and celebrated. With expertise and care, Rejuvenation Plastic Surgery becomes not just a place for aesthetic changes but a space for self-discovery and confidence-building—where your rejuvenation becomes your story of renewal.
