Facelifts are one of the most common cosmetic procedures, yet many myths about them and the results they can achieve still exist. Here, Dr. Kolder sets the record straight with the truth behind some of the most circulated facelift myths.
1. Facelift Results Look Unnatural
This myth is rooted in a bit of outdated truth from the way that facelifts used to be done decades ago. Facelifts used to pull only the skin tight in order to smooth out wrinkles and sagging – they didn’t also address the underlying muscle tissue like today’s facelifts do. This skin-only technique often resulted in that “windblown” look that became known of facelifts of the past.
Today, modern facelift techniques provide structure and support by also tightening and restructuring the deeper layers underneath the skin, creating a very natural-looking and longer-lasting final result.
2. Facelifts Aren’t for Men
While it is true that more women tend to get facelifts (and cosmetic surgery in general) than men, the number of men who are beginning to opt into these procedures is on the rise. According to a recent survey from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, facelifts were the third-most popular facial cosmetic procedure among men in the last year, next to eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty. Moreover, the number of male facelifts performed in the last year was up by 6% compared to the previous year.
We are now seeing more men request facelifts and other cosmetic procedures than ever before, for various reasons, including an ultra-competitive career landscape and the “Zoom boom” that occurred in the past several years.
3. Facelifts Address the Entire Face
Many people assume that a facelift addresses the entire face – and understandably so, given the term “facelift.” A more accurate term might be a “two-thirds facelift,” since facelifts really only address the lower two-thirds of your face, including the cheeks and jawline. However, facelifts are very commonly combined with other facial procedures, such as an eyelid lift, brow lift or neck lift, to achieve a more comprehensive final result.
If you’re unsure about whether a facelift on its own would be enough to achieve your specific goals, Dr. Kolder would be happy to sit down with you to discuss the ins and outs of what a facelift can and cannot address on its own.
4. Facelift Results Are Permanent
While facelifts can create long-lasting results, they aren’t exactly permanent. A facelift can take an average of 7 to 10 years off your look, but it doesn’t stop the natural aging process. Over time, skin will continue to age, though typically at a slower rate than before your facelift.
Generally speaking, facelift results tend to last around 10 to 15 years, depending on factors like your skin type, lifestyle and overall health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a good skincare routine can help to prolong your results.
If you still have questions about a facelift and the results you might be able to expect for yourself, please give us a call at 805-484-2855 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kolder to discuss your goals, timeline and the specifics of your facelift procedure.
Author: Dr. Daniel G. Kolder
Dr. Daniel G. Kolder is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As a highly trained plastic surgeon serving Ventura County, he is best-known for his warm, easy manner, compassionate care, and beautiful, natural results.