When we hear people ask How long do facelifts last? we understand that to mean How long can I expect to enjoy the results of my facelift? There is no “correct” answer to those questions, because every facelift and mini facelift is different. Result longevity depends on the plastic surgeon’s skill, your skin health, your age when you undergo the procedure, the type of facelift you have, and other factors. However, most people can expect their facelift results to last 10 years or longer. And although you’ll continue to age after your facelift, you will always look younger than your years because you’ve “set back the clock” with your procedure.
Let’s look at some factors that impact the longevity of your results.
Surgical Techniques
When your plastic surgeon uses more extensive facelift techniques for your procedure, you can expect your results to last longer. A full facelift involves incisions around the ear and sometimes beneath the chin to reposition underlying tissues and tighten muscles.
On the other hand, a mini facelift requires shorter incisions, is more limited in scope, and has a shorter recovery period. However, with a mini facelift, your results may not last as long as with a full facelift. Depending on your desired results, your plastic surgeon will advise you on choosing a full or mini facelift.
Skin Health & Genetics
Our genetics, along with environmental factors, determine how fast our skin ages. Unfortunately, age-related concerns like skin laxity and deep facial lines can influence your facelift results. People with more elastic skin may enjoy their results for longer than those with very lax skin. Some surgeons recommend getting a facelift before the age of 60 for optimal, longer-lasting results. However, people in their 60s and 70s enjoy significant benefits and impressive results—everyone is unique.
Lifestyle Choices
The quality of your diet and how much exercise you get can influence the longevity of your results. Foods rich in nutrients and antioxidants will help you have stronger, healthier skin, while consistent hydration will help your skin remain supple. Exercise helps with blood circulation and may prevent weight fluctuations, which can affect your results.
What Steps Can You Take To Get the Most From Your Facelift Results?
Although there is no magic formula for ideal facelift results, here are some easy steps you can take to optimize and extend the benefits of your procedure.
Combine Facelift With Other Procedures
Since a facelift can only address certain areas of your face, you may want to consider combining a brow lift or eyelid surgery with your facelift. Combining procedures will give you more comprehensive results. And while this may not technically prolong your facelift results, it can expand them so that you enjoy a more youthful look from your hairline to your neck.
Follow Your Plastic Surgeon’s Aftercare Recommendations
This is a simple but important step, as some patients tend to rush through the recovery process. Your plastic surgeon will advise you on how to care for your skin once the bandages are removed, and what products to use on your skin going forward. They will also advise you on how long to wait before exercising or engaging in strenuous activities.
Protect Your Skin From the Sun
After healing from your facelift, you may want to show off your results. Remember to apply sunscreen to your face when going outdoors to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. These UV rays can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and discoloration, which can detract from your facelift results. High-quality sunscreen and medical-grade skincare products will help keep your skin youthful after a facelift.
Enhance Your Results With Injectables
Injectables such as BOTOX® or dermal fillers are a quick and easy way to rejuvenate your skin and enhance your facelift results. Injectable treatments can add volume and lift, and smooth lines and wrinkles.
Facelift results can last a long time without any intervention, but there are several things you can do to to optimize your results. To see the level of results our facelift patients enjoy, look at their before and after photos. If you are ready to discuss your facelift options, [consultation]request a consultation[/consultation] or call us at [phone] to schedule an appointment.