Rejuvenate Your Innate Vibrance and Confidence 

At Tucson Plastic Surgery, our facelift approach is all about creating natural-looking, lasting results that restore youthful contours without altering your unique features. A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is designed to address age-related changes like sagging skin, deep facial lines, and loss of volume, restoring a smoother, more youthful appearance. With extensive training in both aesthetics and advanced facial surgery, our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Silvia Kurtovic and Dr. Raman Mahabir offer a balanced, individualized treatment plan for each patient, using a range of modern techniques to address multiple signs of aging while delivering results that feel authentically yours.

What is a Facelift?

Over time, natural aging changes the youthful contours of the face, causing a loss of fat and soft tissue volume, along with sagging, thinning skin that leads to lines and wrinkles. Facelift surgery at Tucson Plastic Surgery addresses visible signs of aging on the face and neck, restoring a smoother, firmer appearance. Facelifts can improve a variety of age-related concerns, including:

  • Fallen or diminished facial fat volume
  • Sagging skin due to relaxation and elasticity loss
  • Deepened nasolabial folds (lines running from the nose to the mouth corners)
  • Jowls in the cheeks and jawline
  • Loose skin and excess fat under the chin and along the neck, also known as "turkey neck"

Because each face ages uniquely based on genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors like sun exposure or weight fluctuations, a customized facelift can effectively address your specific needs. Additionally, maintaining a skincare regimen and a smoke-free lifestyle can enhance the longevity of facelift results.

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Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

A facelift may be ideal for men and women looking to rejuvenate the appearance of their face and neck, especially those experiencing sagging skin, volume loss, or pronounced lines. Ideal candidates are in good overall health, are non-smokers, and have realistic expectations. The best way to determine if a facelift in Tucson with our team is right for you is through a one-on-one consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeons.

Facelift Before & After

Your face is often the first thing people notice, so investing in facial rejuvenation can significantly enhance both your self-image and confidence. Whether for anti-aging purposes or to refine facial features, explore our gallery to see the transformative results achievable through our facial plastic surgery procedures.

View More Facelift Results

Non-Surgical Facelift & Facelift Maintenance

For a refreshed, youthful look without surgery or to maintain facelift results, SkinPen® Microneedling and HydraFacial® offer effective, non-invasive options.

SkinPen Microneedling

SkinPen is a precise microneedling tool that stimulates collagen by creating micro-injuries, enhancing firmness, and smoothing fine lines and uneven skin tone. Ideal for facelift maintenance, it helps keep skin looking firm and youthful.

HydraFacial Deep Hydration

HydraFacial combines exfoliation, cleansing, extraction, and hydration using its unique Vortex-Fusion® technology. This treatment leaves skin instantly glowing and hydrated, making it perfect for non-surgical rejuvenation or as a boost for facelift results.

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Why Choose Tucson Plastic Surgery for Your Facelift?

Choosing Tucson Plastic Surgery means selecting a team dedicated to exceptional standards and personalized patient care. Both Dr. Kurtovic and Dr. Mahabir bring years of specialized training and board certification to each procedure, combining artistry with a strong foundation in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Our practice is grounded in the latest advancements and best practices, and we’re passionate about helping each patient achieve their unique vision. From consultation through recovery, our patient-centered approach ensures your experience is as comfortable and seamless as possible. With a focus on natural-looking results that truly enhance each patient’s distinct features, Tucson Plastic Surgery is a trusted partner in helping you look and feel your best.

About the Facelift Procedure

Facelift techniques are tailored to address your skin’s condition, degree of volume loss, and unique concerns. At Tucson Plastic Surgery, our goal is to achieve a naturally balanced look that never appears "overdone." We utilize advanced techniques to restore the volume and structure of deeper facial tissues while ensuring precise skin removal to avoid a pulled or stretched appearance. Facelift options include the following:

  • Traditional Facelift: Involves incisions beginning at the temples and continuing around the ear to the lower scalp. The deep underlying facial tissues are lifted and repositioned, and the skin is re-draped over the new contours, with any excess skin removed.
  • Limited Incision/Mini Facelift: Shorter incisions are used near the temples and around the ear, which is ideal for patients with mild skin laxity and offers a more subtle improvement.
  • Mid-face Lift: Addresses volume loss in the cheeks and softens nasolabial folds. Small incisions near the temples or lower eyelids lift the cheek area for a more youthful look.
  • Neck Lift: Reduces sagging jowls, fat deposits under the chin, and loose neck skin. Incisions begin at the earlobe, wrapping around the hairline behind the ear. Sometimes, a small incision under the chin allows for neck liposuction and muscle tightening.
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Facelift Recovery Process 4-6 Weeks

Facelifts are generally outpatient procedures, meaning you’ll be able to recover at home. Your face will be wrapped to minimize swelling, and a small drain may be placed in the neck to remove excess fluid. Keeping your head elevated aids recovery, though direct application of ice to the face is discouraged as it may affect blood flow. Bruising and swelling are expected but typically start to subside within a few weeks.

Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery, and avoiding sun exposure on your face and neck is essential to protect the results. For those looking for less invasive alternatives, a thread lift can offer temporary improvement with shorter recovery, though it does not provide the same degree of enhancement or longevity as a traditional facelift.

Facelift Frequently Asked Questions

Does a facelift make you look younger?

Yes, a facelift can help patients look up to 10 years younger. Our surgeons focus on natural, long-lasting results that avoid an “overdone” look. Studies, including those on twins, show facelift patients maintain a more youthful appearance over time.

How do I get rid of a double chin?

Double chins may be caused by fat or skin laxity. Non-surgical treatments like CoolSculpting® or Kybella® may help mild cases, while liposuction or a neck lift is often better for pronounced issues.

How should I prepare for a facelift?

Preparing for a facelift includes avoiding tobacco, blood thinners, and certain supplements and adopting a skin-healthy routine to optimize results.

How can I reduce swelling after a facelift?

Sleeping with your head elevated and taking arnica and bromelain before and after surgery can help reduce swelling.

How long does a facelift last?

While a facelift can't stop aging, the results last for years—typically 7-10 years or longer, depending on individual care and lifestyle.

Is a facelift painful?

With modern surgical techniques, most patients report minimal discomfort. Light activity can usually resume within days, and Tylenol or ibuprofen is often sufficient for pain relief.

What can I expect after a facelift?

Expect natural, rejuvenated results tailored to your facial anatomy and aging pattern. Each facelift is designed to restore a more youthful appearance while retaining your unique features.

How is a thread lift different from a facelift?

For patients who are looking for a less invasive or less expensive alternative, a thread lift may be an option. The main downside of a thread lift is that threads can only give about 25-30% of the improvement of a facelift. Also the results typically only last one to two years as opposed to the 12-15 years you will get from your facelift. Still, for people with only mild to moderate signs of facial aging or for people that cannot afford the 2-3 weeks of recovery time for a facelift, threads may be an option. While we at Tucson Plastic Surgery do not offer threads, there are several capable, competent providers in Tucson and Southern Arizona that do.

How do I tighten my jawline?

Jawline tightening can be tailored to individual needs. For some, masseter Botox reduces bulk for a smoother contour. Others may benefit from fillers or fat transfer to add definition. For those with more loose skin, a lower facelift may offer the best results.

How do you take care of your face after a facelift?

Post-facelift care is straightforward. Initially, you’ll wear a bandage or compression garment, and once removed, you can gently cleanse your face. After stitches are taken out, you can resume your skincare routine. An antioxidant, such as daily power defense, can also help optimize healing and minimize scarring visibility.

How long after a facelift can I exercise?

You can begin walking immediately after surgery. However, avoid any strenuous physical activity for at least four weeks, including lifting more than five pounds or bending at the waist. Light activities, such as walking, are encouraged from day one, while moderate activities can resume by week four.

How long do ears hurt after a facelift?

While some areas of the face, neck, or ears may feel numb or tingly, ear pain is uncommon. This sensation usually resolves within a few weeks and, in rare cases, may take a bit longer to subside.

How long does it take for bruising on the face to go away?

We recommend taking arnica before and after surgery, which, along with precise surgical techniques and topical arnica gel, can help minimize bruising. Typically, bruising fades by the end of the two-week mark, which is ideal for social downtime.

How long is recovery from a facelift?

Recovery from a facelift is relatively fast. Patients are up and walking the same day and can typically return to work within two weeks. Physical activity should be limited for about four weeks, but by week three, most normal activities can be resumed without noticeable signs of surgery.

How many times can you get a facelift?

Facelifts can be repeated based on individual needs. Generally, patients consider a secondary facelift about 7-10 years after the first, especially if they have not opted for non-surgical maintenance.

What is a non-surgical facelift?

A non-surgical facelift is a customizable set of minimally invasive treatments, like fillers and laser skin tightening, designed to rejuvenate without incisions. These procedures provide subtle refreshments with little downtime, making them an ideal choice for those not ready for surgery.

What is a thread lift?

A thread lift is a minimally invasive option that uses dissolvable, barbed sutures to lift sagging areas. As the threads dissolve, collagen forms around them, further enhancing volume and support. Best suited for those in their 30s to 40s, thread lifts offer modest improvement with quicker recovery than surgery.

What is the best age for a facelift?

There’s no perfect age, as facial aging varies by individual. Many opt for their first facelift in their mid-40s to early 50s, achieving subtle, long-lasting results. However, facelifts are successful even into the 70s and 80s, depending on overall health.

What is the difference between a deep plane and an SMAS facelift?

A deep plane facelift lifts skin and fascia in a single layer, posing less risk to facial nerves. SMAS facelifts raise layers separately, allowing for precise repositioning of the deeper facial structure, creating natural, individualized results with a slightly higher risk of nerve injury.

When should you get a facelift?

A facelift can be appropriate at any age when the individual feels ready for it. Most opt for their first facelift in their 40s or 50s for optimal results, with potential refreshers in later decades. Healthy individuals in their 70s or 80s can also benefit from a facelift.

Can a facelift be combined with other cosmetic procedures, and what are the benefits?

Yes, facelifts can be combined with complementary procedures like eyelid surgery, brow lift, or neck lift. Combining procedures can deliver more comprehensive results with reduced recovery time and cost than performing each surgery separately.

What are the most common misconceptions about facelift surgery?

Many think facelifts look unnatural, require extended recovery, or are only suitable for older individuals. Advances in techniques create natural results with manageable recovery, and facelifts can be beneficial at a range of ages.

What is the typical timeline for seeing full results after a facelift?

Initial improvements are visible in a few weeks, while full results typically appear around three to six months as swelling and bruising fully subside.

How do the results of a facelift compare to non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments?

Facelifts offer more significant, long-lasting results than non-surgical options, which tend to address only mild aging concerns temporarily. Non-surgical treatments work well for early signs of aging, while facelifts address more pronounced changes for years to come.

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