What are the different types of facelifts?

Facelifts are a very popular method to reduce the visible signs of aging such as sagging, loose skin and wrinkles. In general, a facelift (technically known as a rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic procedure that restores a youthful appearance by tightening the underlying muscles and repositioning the skin on the face and neck. However, there are many different types of facelifts, both surgical and non-surgical. If you’re considering a facelift you may be overwhelmed by your options. In this post we’ll be going over some of the different types of facelifts so you can make the best choice for your own specific goals.

Traditional Facelift

The traditional facelift involves incisions around your ears, hairline and below the chin.  Your surgeon will tighten the skin and muscle below and may remove any excess fat from your neck and jowls. The traditional facelift is an good procedure for anyone wanting to tighten up from moderate to significant facial aging.

Mini Facelift

The mini facelift is a very popular technique that targets the skin in the lower face. This procedure uses smaller incisions than a traditional facelift and is therefore less invasive.  Younger patients are the best candidates for this procedure.

Deep Plane/SMAS Facelift

The deep plane facelift focuses on the look of sagging skin at the base of the chin and neck. This procedure is performed by a surgeon and involves lifting the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) or the muscular layer of your face, fat and skin as a single unit.  Your surgeon will reshape and smooth out this layer.  The deep plane facelift is ideal for anyone who would like to see improvements in their facial skin laxity and any deep sagging in the lower two-thirds of their face.

Mid Facelift

The mid facelift targets the middle section of the face, specifically the cheeks. During this procedure your surgeon will reposition the fat in your cheeks while tightening the skin area. The mid facelift is best for anyone who doesn’t have excess skin sagging in the neck area, but can be incorporated with other procedures if desired.

Cutaneous Facelift

The cutaneous (or skin) facelift involves only your skin and usually focuses on the neck and lower face area. During this procedure incisions are made around the hairline and ears. Your surgeon will then separate the top layer of skin from the muscles and tissue underneath. Any excess skin will be cut out and discarded while the remaining skin is stretched to the incision point and closed with sutures, creating tighter, more toned skin.  The cutaneous facelift is ideal for a younger individual who is looking only to address excess or loose skin.  It’s not recommended for anyone showing advanced signs of aging.

Liquid Facelift

Liquid facelifts are one of the most popular types of facial rejuvenation. This non-surgical procedure involves injectable serums such as Botox and dermal fillers.  This is a wonderful option for anyone wanting to treat facial wrinkles without surgery.

These are just a few of the most popular types of facelifts available. Ready to see which option is right for you? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.