Facelift Before and After Photos
Facelift
Conveniently located to serve Westchester County, NY
Facial aging often first appears on the lower face, jawline, and neck. A facelift can address sagging skin, deep folds, and loss of definition, restoring smoother, more balanced facial contours. With John F. Farella, M.D., F.A.C.S., facelift surgery is designed to look natural while respecting your facial structure and long-term skin health.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the midface, lower face, jawline, and neck. The procedure focuses on repositioning deeper facial tissue and removing excess skin for a smoother appearance. Unlike surface treatments, facelift surgery addresses structural changes beneath the skin.
Areas treated with a facelift
A facelift can be adjusted to match your needs and anatomy. Common treatment areas include:
- Midface and cheeks
- Lower face and jowls
- Jawline definition
- Neck and under-chin area
- Optional combination areas, such as a neck lift or brow lift
Facelift surgery may also be combined with other facial contouring surgeries to achieve more comprehensive results.
Ideal Facelift Candidates
You may be an ideal candidate for a facelift if you identify with one or more of the following characteristics:
- Patients with a deep line that runs from the corner of the nose to the corner of the mouth
- Patients who do not have a well-defined jawline
- Patients who have deep wrinkles in the cheeks and sagging skin near the cheekbones
- Patients with loose skin, wrinkles, or excess fatty tissue in the neck
- Patients who are in good health
- Patients who are doing it for the right reasons (i.e., for themselves)
- Patients with realistic expectations
- Patients who have some elasticity remaining for optimal results
- Patients in their 40s through 70s commonly seek this procedure, though age alone doesn’t determine candidacy
- Patients who are willing to cease smoking to achieve better outcomes and reduce complications
The Facelift Treatment Process
Consultation
Dr. Farella evaluates your facial structure, skin quality, and aging patterns during your initial visit. He discusses your aesthetic goals and recommends a customized surgical plan. You’ll review facelift techniques, anesthesia options, and expected outcomes. This thorough assessment helps create a surgical approach tailored to your needs.
The procedure
The procedure is done as an outpatient using IV sedation and local anesthesia. This procedure typically takes 2-3 hours and can be performed alongside other facial procedures.
Dr. Farella makes incisions along your hairline and around your ears for minimal visibility. He tightens the SMAS layer (deeper facial tissues) to restore facial support and correct sagging. The underlying muscles are repositioned, and excess skin is carefully removed. Dr. Farella then repositions the remaining skin smoothly over your new facial contours.
The incisions are closed with fine sutures for optimal healing.
What to Expect During Facelift Recovery
After your facelift, you will recover in our private recovery room with our licensed registered nurse to assist you. A bandage will be wrapped around your head to help relieve some swelling. Drains are also placed to help drain fluids that may accumulate and are removed the following day.
After 48 hours, the bandages will be removed, and you will be able to shower and wash your hair. Stitches in front of the ear are removed within the first week, and the remaining sutures are removed within two weeks.
Makeup may be worn to conceal bruising. After 10-14 days, non-strenuous work and light exercise may resume. After 4-6 weeks, you may do more strenuous exercise. The final results will be apparent within one year. Keep in mind, your facelift will turn back the hands of time, but it does not stop the aging process. Longer-lasting results are more likely in patients who are younger, do not smoke, and do not have sun-damaged skin.
Aftercare tips
- Keep your head elevated
- Avoid aspirin for two weeks after surgery
- Avoid activities that raise your pulse or blood pressure
- No bending or lifting for two weeks following surgery
Risks and complications
Although complications can occur, they are rare. They can include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, scarring, damage to deeper structures, asymmetry, nerve injury, improper healing, numbness, allergic reactions, and risks and complications associated with anesthesia.
It is best to discuss all questions about risks and potential complications during your consultation. Let our office calm any concerns you may have. We are here to answer your questions.
Benefits of Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery offers comprehensive facial rejuvenation that addresses multiple aging concerns at once. It provides benefits that include the following:
- Tightens sagging skin and underlying facial muscles for improved support
- Improves jawline definition, jowls, and neck contour
- Reduces deep wrinkles, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines
- Creates a more youthful, rested appearance without looking overdone
- Provides long-lasting results when maintained with healthy lifestyle habits
- Restores facial balance and proportion
How Much Does a Facelift Cost?
The total cost of facelift surgery is determined by factors such as your medical examinations, surgeon’s fee, hospital charges, post-surgery garments, and anesthesia. The exact techniques used will also impact cost, as will the total time needed to perform the surgery. During your consultation, you’ll receive a detailed cost estimate.
Why Choose Plastic Surgery Westchester for Your Facelift
Dr. John F. Farella is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Westchester County, NY, with extensive training and experience in facial rejuvenation. He maintains Fellowship status with the American College of Surgeons, a distinction that reflects his commitment to surgical excellence. This is why his patients know they are in the most capable hands of Westchester’s top cosmetic surgeon.
Dr. Farella specializes in performing plastic surgery procedures that create natural-looking results that honor your unique facial features. His approach combines surgical expertise with an understanding of facial aesthetics. Every facelift is customized to address your specific aging concerns and goals. Dr. Farella’s use of the latest techniques also allows him to leave patients with minimal visible scars.
The practice provides personalized care in a comfortable, accredited surgical facility. Learn more about Dr. Farella’s background and approach.
Hear From Dr. Farella’s Patients
“I decided to have my facelift and grafting. One of my friends suggested me Dr. Farella, a cosmetic plastic surgeons in New York. My friend had her facelift done by him and after the procedure she looks so beautiful I can’t even believe that it is her face. I fixed my appointment with Dr. Farella without any delay and had my facelift and fat grafting done by him. The procedure scheduling was seamless and the surgery center experience was great. My recovery was on expected lines without any complications. I love my face, younger and youthful.” – A Very Pleased Patient
Frequently Asked Questions
Most facelift procedures take between three and five hours. The exact duration depends on the techniques used and whether you combine additional procedures. Dr. Farella takes the time needed to achieve precise, natural results.
Incisions are carefully placed along your hairline and around your ears, where they heal discreetly. Most scars fade significantly over time and blend into natural contours. Proper post-operative care helps minimize scar visibility.
Yes, many patients combine their facelift with complementary procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation. Common combinations include neck lift, eyelid surgery, or brow lift. Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time and create balanced facial harmony.
Facelift results typically last 10 years or more with proper maintenance. While the procedure doesn't stop the aging process, it effectively reverses it. Healthy lifestyle choices, sun protection, and quality skin care help extend your results.
Most patients return to work within two weeks following their procedure. Your specific timeline depends on your healing progress and job requirements. Desk work can typically resume sooner than physically demanding activities.
Ready to Restore Your Youthful Appearance?
If facial sagging or deep folds are bothering you, a consultation is the next step. You’ll receive an expert facial assessment and a clear plan based on your anatomy and goals. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with John F. Farella, M.D., F.A.C.S.
