The Truth about Facelift: Myth vs FactOrange County Surgical Specialists

A facelift is one of the most well-known cosmetic procedures, but with popularity comes a lot of myths and misconceptions. Whether you’re considering a facelift or simply curious, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. In this blog, we’ll explore common myths about facelifts and set the record straight with the truth.

Myth 1: Facelifts are only for older people.

Fact: Facelifts can be beneficial for individuals of a variety of ages, depending on their skin condition and goals.

While facelifts are often associated with people in their 50s or 60s, younger individuals in their 40s may also opt for the procedure as a preventive (Early Maintenance Facelift), to address early signs of aging or to restore more youthful contours. People in their 40s and early 50s are able to enjoy the benefits of a facelift much longer than older facelift patients.

Myth 2: Facelifts leave visible scars.

Fact: Facelift scars are discreet and usually well-hidden.

Modern techniques have greatly improved scar placement, and a skilled surgeon will place incisions along natural lines of the face—such as around the ears—where scars are less noticeable. In addition, what occurs during surgery, the vectors of repositioning the deeper tissue layers play a big factor in long term healing of the scars. Finally with proper aftercare, scars fade significantly over time.

Myth 3: A facelift will make you look completely “done” or “overdone.”

Fact: A facelift can offer natural-looking results when performed by an experienced surgeon.

One of the biggest concerns for many people is that a facelift will make them look artificial or overly tight. However, when done properly, a facelift rejuvenates the face without changing its natural appearance. It should simply restore a youthful, refreshed version of yourself. The goal of a facelift is to restore, not to radically alter. Surgeons work with the natural contours of the face to avoid a “pulled” or exaggerated look. Dr. Bolourian at Orange County Surgical Specialists always aims for subtle, natural-looking results.

Myth 4: Facelifts are only about tightening the skin.

Fact: A facelift addresses deeper layers of the face, not just the skin.

While tightening the skin is part of the procedure, facelifts also lift and reposition underlying tissues and muscles to restore the face’s youthful structure. This approach is key for achieving long-lasting and natural results.

Facelifts are not just about stretching skin over the face. The procedure often involves repositioning the SMAS layer (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) also known as a deep plane approach, which helps restore a more youthful, lifted appearance from within.

Myth 5: Recovery from a facelift is long and extremely painful.

Fact: Most people experience mild discomfort and a relatively quick recovery.

Although the recovery period can vary from person to person, most patients experience only mild discomfort that can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Swelling and bruising may occur, but these usually subside within a couple of weeks. Many people return to moderate activities within 10-14 days.

With proper care, many people feel comfortable enough to return to work and normal activities within two weeks. Full results may take a few months to fully appear as the skin settles into its new position.

Myth 6: Deep plane facelift is too invasive and requires long recovery.

Fact: Deep plane facelift is performed as a composite lift. This means the skin, muscle, fat, and connective tissue moves in one cohesive unit. This technique allows for more natural results since it preserves the face’s natural contours. Because the composite deep plane facelift involves less skin tension and a more cohesive lifting, many patients experience a shorter recovery period compared to traditional facelifts. Selling and bruising tend to be less severe, and patients can often return to normal activities sooner.

Myth 7: A facelift will eliminate all wrinkles.

Fact: A facelift smooths skin and reduces sagging, but it doesn’t eliminate all wrinkles or stop aging entirely.

While a facelift can reduce sagging skin and smooth deep lines, it doesn’t prevent the natural aging process from continuing. Wrinkles caused by sun damage or expression lines may still be visible, and new wrinkles may develop over time.

Myth 8: Facelifts are only for women.

Fact: Facelifts are popular among both men and women.

Facelifts are just as effective for men as they are for women. In fact, many men choose facelifts to address the effects of aging while maintaining a natural, masculine appearance. I tailor the procedure to suit the specific anatomy of male faces.

Myth 9: A facelift is the only solution for facial aging.

Fact: There are many alternatives to a facelift that can address signs of aging.

While a facelift can produce dramatic results, less invasive options like dermal fillers, Botox, lasers, or thread lifts can offer temporary or less extensive solutions to early signs of aging. These options can be great for people who are not yet ready for surgery. Non-surgical procedures may be effective for addressing fine lines, wrinkles, or volume loss and can be a good way to delay the need for more invasive surgery.

Myth 10: Facelifts always involve dramatic changes to your appearance.

Fact: Facelifts should enhance and refresh your appearance, not drastically change it.

A well-performed facelift aims to rejuvenate your appearance while maintaining your natural features. The goal is to refresh and lift the face subtly, not to create an overly-tight or unnatural look. A facelift should restore a youthful appearance, not transform your face into something unrecognizable. The best results are those that keep you looking like yourself, only more refreshed and energized.

Myth 11: Facelifts are dangerous and have high complication rates.

Fact: Facelifts are generally safe when performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon.

Like any surgery, facelifts do carry some risks, but when performed by a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, the procedure has a low complication rate. The key is choosing a skilled surgeon who follows safety protocols, uses modern techniques, and ensures proper aftercare. The best way to minimize complications is to thoroughly research your surgeon and ensure they have a proven track record of successful facelift procedures.