A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck. The results of a facelift can be long-lasting, but they are not permanent. The duration of the effects of a facelift depends on several factors, including the type of facelift performed, the patient’s age, lifestyle, and skin quality. In general, a well-performed facelift can provide results that last from 5 to 15 years, but the longevity of the results can vary.

Types of Facelift

There are several types of facelifts, each tailored to different patient needs and specific areas of the face. The main types of facelifts include:

Mini Facelift:

• A mini facelift is a less invasive version of a traditional facelift. It targets mild to moderate sagging around the lower face and jawline. This procedure is often chosen by younger patients or those who are starting to notice early signs of aging. The incisions are smaller, and the recovery time is generally shorter.

SMAS Facelift:

• The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) facelift is a more comprehensive procedure that addresses deeper layers of the face. It involves tightening the SMAS layer, which lies beneath the skin, to provide a more substantial lift. This technique can achieve more dramatic and longer-lasting results compared to a mini facelift.

Deep Plane Facelift:

• The deep plane facelift is considered one of the most advanced and effective facelift techniques. It goes beyond the SMAS layer, lifting and repositioning the deeper facial structures, including the muscles and fat. This approach provides the most natural and long-lasting results but is also the most complex and invasive.

Factors Determining How Long a Facelift Lasts

Several factors influence how long the results of a facelift will last:

Age:

• The age at which the facelift is performed plays a significant role. Younger patients tend to have better skin elasticity, which can contribute to longer-lasting results. However, facelifts performed at a more advanced age can still provide excellent outcomes, though the longevity may be shorter.

Skin Quality:

• The quality of the skin, including its elasticity and thickness, is crucial. Patients with healthier, more elastic skin are likely to enjoy longer-lasting results. Sun damage, smoking, and poor skin care can negatively impact skin quality and reduce the duration of facelift results. Patients that have fuller faces are likely to have shorter lasting result due to the weight of the tissues.

Type of Facelift:

• The specific technique used in the facelift procedure is one of the most critical factors. More comprehensive procedures like the deep plane facelift tend to provide longer-lasting results than less invasive options like the mini facelift.

Lifestyle Factors:

• Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, diet, and sun exposure, can significantly impact how long facelift results last. Smoking and excessive sun exposure can accelerate skin aging, thereby shortening the lifespan of the facelift results. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper skin care can help prolong the effects. The maintenance of the skin is also important can combining with procedures such as Morpheus8 or laser resurfacing can improve the outcome and longevity of the results.

Genetics:

• Genetics also play a role in determining the aging process. Patients with a family history of slower aging may experience longer-lasting results, while those with a tendency for early skin aging might see changes sooner.

How Long Does a Mini Facelift Last?

A mini facelift generally provides results that last between 2 to 5 years. This procedure is less invasive than a full facelift, targeting only the lower face and jawline. The less extensive nature of the surgery means that the results may not last as long as more comprehensive procedures. However, for patients with early signs of aging or those who prefer a less invasive approach, a mini facelift can be an excellent option. This can be done awake under a local anaesthetic in most cases.

How Long Does a SMAS Facelift Last?

The SMAS facelift typically offers results that last between 5 to 10 years. This procedure is more involved than a mini facelift, as it addresses the deeper layers of the face. By tightening the SMAS layer, the facelift achieves more substantial and longer-lasting results. The longevity of the SMAS facelift makes it a popular choice for patients seeking a significant improvement in facial appearance without the need for more frequent touch-ups.

How Long Does a Deep Plane Facelift Last?

A deep plane facelift is known for providing the most long-lasting results of all facelift techniques. On average, the results of a deep plane facelift can last up to 10-15 years. This technique’s ability to reposition deeper facial structures, including the muscles and fat, creates a more natural and durable outcome. Although the deep plane facelift is more complex and requires a longer recovery period, its longevity and natural-looking results make it a preferred choice for many patients.

Conclusion

The duration of facelift results varies depending on the type of facelift performed and various individual factors. While a mini facelift can last 2 to 5 years, more extensive procedures like the SMAS facelift can provide results lasting up to 10 years. The deep plane facelift, with its advanced technique, offers the most long-lasting results, typically between 10 to 15 years.

Ultimately, the longevity of facelift results depends on factors such as the patient’s age, skin quality, lifestyle choices, and genetics. We will discuss your factors during your consultation and also provide advice on the maintenance of the skin following a facelift. There are additional procedures that can help the outcomes and these will be discussed during your care.