As you move through your 30s and 40s, you may start noticing changes in your skin, especially around the lower half of your face. Laxity in the jawline and cheeks, along with the appearance of deeper wrinkles, can gradually alter the facial structure. While a consistent skincare routine can help maintain the overall health of your skin, it may not address the sagging or loss of definition caused by aging.
A facelift can help lift and contour the face and give you a more refreshed appearance. This surgical approach reduces the appearance of sagging skin and wrinkles, particularly in the mid-to-lower face and neck. At Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, we offer facelifts to improve facial contours and create a smoother, more rejuvenated look.
Facial Aging in the Lower Face
Facial aging in the lower face often begins with a gradual loss of skin elasticity and volume. The jawline can become less defined as soft tissue shifts and skin begins to sag. Marionette lines and jowls may form as underlying support structures weaken.
Fat pads in the cheeks may descend and contribute to heaviness around the mouth and chin. Muscle laxity in the neck and lower face can add to the aged appearance, and volume loss near the corners of the mouth may cause a downturn or shadowing effect that makes the face appear tired.
What Is a Facelift?
A rhytidectomy, commonly known as a facelift, is a surgical procedure that resolves certain visible signs of aging in the face and neck. It carefully lifts and repositions underlying tissues to reduce sagging and smooth contours in the face. This technique can be used for loose skin, deep folds, and other age-related changes.
Types of Facelift Surgery
Full Facelift
A full facelift corrects more advanced signs of aging in the mid-to-lower face and neck. We reposition deeper tissues and remove excess skin, which resolves sagging, deep wrinkles, and loss of definition around the jawline. It’s an option for patients who want comprehensive rejuvenation and more noticeable results. We often use the full facelift for older patients or those with considerable aging in the facial tissues and muscles.
Neck Lift
A neck lift is ideal for patients with loose skin, vertical bands, or excess fat in the neck area. It refines the neck contours by tightening underlying muscles, removing excess skin, and sometimes addressing stubborn fat. This procedure is done on its own or with a facelift.
Mini Facelift
A mini facelift treats early signs of aging in the lower face with smaller incisions and less extensive tissue repositioning. It is typically used to lift mild sagging near the cheeks, jawline, and neck without involving a full neck lift. We tighten underlying structures and remove limited excess skin to restore smoother, firmer contours. Recovery is generally faster compared to a full facelift due to the reduced scope of surgery. We may recommend a mini facelift for younger patients or those with moderate skin laxity who want subtle but visible improvements.
What Can a Facelift Address?
- Sagging Skin: After your mid-20s, collagen production reduces by 1% each year. This is part of what causes the skin to sag in the lower face and neck. A facelift can lift and reposition this skin for a firmer and smoother appearance.
- Deep Folds: Nasolabial folds, or the lines that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth, can become more pronounced with age. A facelift softens these folds by tightening the skin and repositioning underlying tissues.
- Jowls or Loss of Jawline Definition: Jowls can blur the natural definition of the jawline and make the face look less structured. Tightening the skin and underlying tissues in this area helps bring back a sharper, more defined profile.
- Hollowed or Sunken Cheeks: A hollowed appearance in the mid-face often results from a loss of volume beneath the skin. Surgical techniques allow for the repositioning of these tissues to lift these areas and make them appear more youthful.
- Excess Chin Fat and Skin: Excess fat or loose skin under the chin can contribute to a “double chin” or undefined neck profile. A facelift and neck lift combined can reduce these concerns. Sometimes these surgeries are combined with other techniques such as liposuction.
Is a Facelift Right for Me?
Good candidates for facelift surgery are in good overall health, without uncontrolled medical conditions that could affect healing. Non-smokers tend to heal better, as smoking can impair circulation and increase the risk of complications. It’s also important to have realistic expectations about what a facelift can improve and how it fits with your overall appearance goals. Ideal candidates are those who have maintained a stable weight and are not planning changes that could affect their facial structure.
Facelift surgery may not be the right choice for individuals with certain health issues, such as bleeding disorders or severe heart conditions. If you are unwilling or unable to stop smoking before and after surgery, this will affect your candidacy. People who expect dramatic results without accepting the necessary recovery process may not be well-suited for this type of procedure.
Preparing for Your Facelift
Your Initial Consultation
During your consultation, we will listen to your concerns and the areas you want to adjust. We will use this and a detailed medical history to determine if you are a candidate for facial surgery. We will also examine your face and neck to assess skin quality, muscle tone, and areas of concern. If you have any questions about the process, be sure to ask them at your consultation. By the end of the first meeting, you should have a complete understanding of the procedure, recovery process, and expected results.
A Few Pre-Surgery Guidelines
In preparation for surgery, we’ll provide you with a pre-surgery packet outlining everything you need to know. This includes a list of medications and supplements to avoid before your facelift procedure since some can increase bleeding risks. You’ll also receive post-operative instructions such as how to care for your incisions and what activities to avoid during recovery. Reviewing these materials thoroughly and following them carefully is part of the process of getting the best results.
Pre-Treatment Tips
There are a few simple ways to support your body and minimize risks as you get closer to your surgery date. These tips can help prepare your skin, reduce bruising, and make the recovery process more manageable.
- Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery
- Avoid alcohol for at least 72 hours pre-surgery
- Stay hydrated in the days leading up to surgery, but follow any fasting instructions carefully the night before.
- Prepare your home recovery space ahead of time, including extra pillows, cold compresses, and any supplies outlined in your pre-op instructions.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours, as you will not be able to do this yourself.
The Facelift Procedure
Incisions are typically placed along the hairline and around the ears, allowing us to lift and reposition the underlying tissues while minimizing visible scarring. The surgery generally takes a few hours, after which you’ll spend time in a recovery area before being discharged.
During a rhytidectomy, we address both skin laxity and deeper tissue descent by carefully reshaping and securing the underlying facial structure. Once the deeper layers are repositioned, we remove any excess skin and close the incisions with techniques that produce natural-looking results.
Facelift Anesthesia and Surgical Setting
Your facelift procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery at a fully accredited surgical center. The surgical environment meets strict safety standards while supporting your comfort throughout the process.
Depending on your needs and preferences, we’ll use general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. After anesthesia is administered, we monitor you closely for the duration of the procedure to maintain stability and ensure a smooth experience. Once your surgery is complete and you’re fully awake, you’ll be discharged with detailed recovery instructions and a plan for follow-up care.
Recovering From Your Facelift
After your surgery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, all of which are normal parts of facelift recovery. You may also feel tightness in the treated areas, which will gradually subside as the healing process progresses. Most patients feel well enough to resume light daily activities within a week, but more strenuous tasks should be avoided until cleared by Dr. Tarola. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
As swelling diminishes, you’ll begin to notice the improved contours and smoother appearance achieved by your surgery. While the results won’t be fully visible until the healing process is complete, many patients appreciate the subtle but impactful changes that happen early on.
Recovery Timeline for Facelift Surgery
- Days 1–3: Expect swelling, bruising, and mild drainage near the incisions. Keep your head elevated and apply cold compresses as directed to help support facelift recovery in the earliest stage.
- Week 1: Most sutures are removed within the first 5–7 days. Mild tightness or numbness is common and usually temporary.
- Weeks 2–3: Swelling continues to decrease, and visible bruising fades. You may begin to feel more comfortable resuming in-person activities.
- Weeks 4–6: You can often return to more strenuous activity once cleared. The skin and tissues continue to settle into their improved contours.
- Months 3–6: Final results become more refined as residual swelling fully resolves and the skin adjusts to its new position.
Aftercare Steps
Proper aftercare supports healing and helps reduce the risk of complications.
- Keep incision sites clean and dry, following the instructions provided for gentle cleansing and ointment use.
- Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling and avoid pressure on the face.
- Avoid direct sun exposure while healing, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen when outdoors.
- Refrain from bending over or lifting heavy objects until you receive clearance.
- Attend all scheduled follow-ups so we can evaluate your healing and make any needed adjustments.
When to Call the Office
Call the office if you develop a fever, experience severe or increasing pain, or notice swelling that worsens rather than improves. You should also reach out if there is unexpected redness, warmth or discharge around your incisions. Report any sudden changes in sensation, such as numbness or difficulty moving facial muscles. If you have concerns about your healing progress or aren’t sure whether something is normal, it’s always best to call and ask.
Facelift Results
The outcome of facelift surgery can offer a smoother, more lifted appearance through refined contours in the cheeks, jawline, and neck. Results develop gradually as swelling fades and tissues settle into position. Most patients see the most visible improvements within a few weeks, and these changes will continue to refine over the following months. While a facelift does not stop the aging process, it can help you look more refreshed and rested for years to come. Maintaining a consistent skincare routine and healthy lifestyle is the best way to extend your results for as long as possible.
Related Procedures
CO2 Laser
CO2 laser resurfacing can improve skin texture, fine lines, and sun damage by removing the outer layers of damaged skin. It stimulates collagen production during healing, which enhances skin firmness and tone. This treatment is often used to complement surgical results from a facelift, especially around the brows and eyes, where facelifts may not have as much of an impact.
Liposuction
If a patient has localized fat deposits under the chin or along the jawline, liposuction can be performed alongside a facelift or by itself to reduce these stubborn areas of fat. This procedure removes excess fat through a small cannula, helping to contour the lower face and neck. Liposuction does not tighten skin, but when combined with skin-lifting procedures, it can improve definition.
Fat Transfer
We use fat transfer, also called fat grafting, to restore volume to areas that look hollow or sunken, such as the cheeks or under the eyes. We remove fat from another part of the body using liposuction, purify it, and then inject it back into the face. Injected fat provides support to aging features without synthetic fillers, and can also help the skin to have a softer feel and healthier glow.
Brow Lift
A brow lift elevates drooping brows and smooths out horizontal lines across the forehead. It can open up the upper face and keep the area around the eyes from looking tired or heavy. This procedure is often paired with a facelift to provide balanced rejuvenation across the entire face.
Eyelid Surgery
Also called blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. It can help reduce puffiness, sagging, and under-eye bags that a facelift alone will not correct. This procedure refreshes the eye area, helping it appear more alert and rested.
Are There Non-Surgical Facelift Options?
Not every patient needs or wants surgery to improve visible signs of facial aging. While a facelift can address structural concerns more comprehensively, there are non-surgical options that can offer mild to moderate improvement in skin laxity, wrinkles, and volume loss. These treatments typically involve little to no downtime and may be used by themselves or to maintain and improve surgical results.
Ultherapy®
Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production in the skin. It is FDA-cleared for lifting the skin on the neck, under the chin and on the brow. The ultrasound energy bypasses the surface of the skin and delivers heat to specific depths to trigger the body’s natural repair response. This treatment reaches the same depth (up to 4.5 mm) as facial surgery. Results develop gradually over a few months, and while the lift is more subtle than surgery, Ultherapy is a good choice for patients with early laxity who want a non-invasive option.
RF Microneedling
RF microneedling combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy to tighten and remodel the skin. Tiny needles create perforations while delivering heat to the dermis, which stimulates both collagen and elastin. This treatment improves mild skin laxity and fine lines in areas like the jawline or lower cheeks. It is often performed as a series of sessions and is suitable for those not yet ready for surgical intervention.
Laser Treatments
Laser therapies treat surface-level concerns such as dullness, sun damage and fine lines while promoting firmer skin. Fractional and ablative lasers can also stimulate collagen production deep in the skin for improved elasticity and tone. Laser treatments enhance skin quality and reduce visible signs of aging and may also be used after facelift surgery to maintain or enhance results.
Injectables
Injectables such as dermal fillers and neuromodulators provide temporary improvement by restoring volume and relaxing expression lines. Fillers can lift and support sagging skin in areas like the cheeks and jawline, while neuromodulators smooth out dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement. Though injectables cannot reposition facial tissues, they can refresh the appearance without downtime. In some cases, strategic injection techniques can mimic a subtle lifting effect, often referred to as a “liquid facelift.”
A Few FAQs About Facelifts
Who Is a Good Candidate for Facelift Surgery?
A rhytidectomy is typically best for patients experiencing visible signs of aging in the face and neck such as sagging skin, deep folds, or jowls. Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery. While age isn’t the only determining factor, skin elasticity and bone structure are both important for getting the best results.
How Long Will My Facelift Results Last?
Results from a facelift surgery can often last 10 years or more, but longevity depends on factors like skin quality, genetics and lifestyle habits. While the natural aging process will continue, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and good skincare routine can help preserve your results for longer. Sun protection and avoiding smoking are particularly beneficial in prolonging the improvements.
Will My Facelift Look Natural?
A well-performed facelift surgery focuses on repositioning the underlying tissues and tightening the skin without pulling too tightly. This approach avoids an overdone appearance, leaving you with a refreshed and natural look. The goal is to enhance your features while maintaining the unique characteristics of your face.
What Are the Risks Associated With Facelift Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, a facelift carries some risks, including infection, bleeding and temporary nerve weakness. Other potential risks include poor wound healing, visible scarring or asymmetry. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon and following all pre and post-operative instructions can minimize these risks.
How Does a Facelift Compare to Non-Surgical Facelift Options?
A facelift procedure provides more dramatic and longer-lasting results than non-surgical treatments like fillers or skin-tightening devices. Non-surgical options are best for patients with mild skin laxity or those seeking temporary improvement. Surgery addresses the deeper structures of the face, whereas non-invasive treatments focus primarily on the skin’s surface and offer subtle enhancements.
Can a Facelift Be Combined with Other Procedures?
A facelift procedure can be complemented by treatments like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), brow lifts, or injectables to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation. An eyelid surgery can refresh tired-looking eyes, while dermal fillers can restore lost volume. Combining procedures is a common way to address multiple areas of concern in one surgical plan.
Will I Have Scars After a Facelift?
Incisions are strategically placed around the hairline and ears to minimize visible scarring. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable, blending naturally with the surrounding skin. Following post-operative care instructions and protecting the area from sun exposure can help scars heal more effectively.
What Is the Best Age for a Facelift?
There is no exact age that’s considered “best” for facelift surgery since facial aging varies from person to person. Most patients who undergo the facelift procedure are in their 40s to 60s, when skin laxity and deeper wrinkles begin to become more noticeable. What matters more than age is the presence of visible aging that can’t be corrected with non-surgical treatments. Good skin elasticity, general health, and realistic expectations are also important factors in determining timing.
Can Men Get Facelift Surgery?
Facelift surgery is not limited to women. Men also experience sagging skin, loss of jawline definition, and deep facial folds that can be improved with surgical lifting techniques. The procedure is customized to preserve masculine features while enhancing the overall facial structure. Techniques may differ slightly to account for thicker skin and beard growth patterns.
What Should I Bring to My Facelift Consultation?
To get the most out of your consultation, bring a list of questions you’d like to ask, especially if you have specific concerns or goals. You should also bring a complete list of current medications and supplements, including over-the-counter products. If possible, bring photos of your face from earlier years for reference. Medical records related to past surgeries or health conditions may also be requested to support treatment planning.
How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Your Facelift
Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with specific experience performing facelift surgery and related facial procedures. Reviewing before-and-after photos can give you insight into their aesthetic approach and consistency. Ask about surgical technique, anesthesia and facility accreditation during your consultation to better understand their process.
A surgeon who listens closely to your concerns and answers your questions clearly is important as you build trust and set realistic expectations. Make sure you feel comfortable with both their qualifications and communication style before moving forward.
About Our Practice
Dr. Nicholas Tarola brings his expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face to every procedure. After earning his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, he completed his surgical residency at Thomas Jefferson University and advanced plastic surgery training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Now based in Murfreesboro, Dr. Tarola is known for his focus on cosmetic face, breast, and body surgery, including advanced techniques for restoring aesthetics after pregnancy and aging. Supported by a compassionate and skilled team, he is committed to excellent results and exceptional care for every patient.
Reduce Signs of Aging With a Facelift
A facelift can treat everything from sagging skin to deep folds, providing a smoother, more refreshed appearance. At Tarola Plastic Surgery, we perform each procedure with artistry to enhance your natural features while maintaining a balanced and youthful look. If you’re ready to explore your options for a facelift in Murfreesboro, TN, call us at 615-713-1695 or contact us through our online form to schedule your consultation.
