When I say facelift, your mind probably goes to the traditional facelift. (Or, if you’ve been reading along, maybe the nonsurgical facelift.) But facelifts actually come in a variety of forms. They comprise a very popular segment of cosmetic surgery that’s referred to as facial rejuvenation.
Generally, facelifts differ by the type of incision that’s used, the number of tissue layers that are treated, the part of the face that’s targeted, and the degree of their invasiveness. On that spectrum, the nonsurgical facelift is the least invasive and the traditional facelift is the most, though it also produces the most dramatic and longest-lasting results.
There are a number that fall somewhere in between. To help you find the one that’s right for you, here’s a selection of some of the most popular kinds of facelifts.
Jawline rejuvenation
Liposuction removes excess fat from the neck, sculpting a more defined jawline in the process. That fat can then be used to plump the cheeks. Since no skin is removed during the procedure, the jawline rejuvenation is best suited for those with minimal skin laxity.
Mid-facelift
Small incisions are made in the hairline just above the ears and inside the mouth, allowing the surgeon to reposition the fat pads over the cheekbones and also tighten the skin across the cheeks, which reduces or even eliminates deep creases. It’s best suited for those who don’t have jowls or sagging skin around their neck.
S-lift
An S-shaped incision at the temple or in front of the ear separates the skin from the underlying tissue. The skin is then lifted so that the tissue and muscle can be tightened. The neck and jowls show the most improvement as a result. Despite how it may sound, the S-lift is less invasive than a traditional facelift. The recovery time is also less.
Mini-facelift
Small incisions are made along the hairline so that excess tissue can be removed and the skin, tightened. The results aren’t nearly as dramatic as they are with a traditional facelift—they’re ideal for those showing early signs of aging—but the recovery is minimal. You could have the procedure on a Friday and be back in the office Monday morning.
Radiofrequency
Radiofrequency energy is used to stimulate collagen, as well as tighten loose skin in different areas of the face. It can also be used on other parts of the body. It’s a procedure that helps slow the signs of aging as the body produces more collagen, showing a refreshed, younger looking face, décolleté, and jaw line.
Deep plane facelift
Considered the gold standard for those with severe facial sagging and laxity, the results, especially around the middle of the face, tend to be dramatic and long-lasting. (Think 10 to 15 years.) It involves repositioning the layer underneath the skin that surrounds the facial expression muscles. Excess and loose skin is then removed, and the edges are sutured or stapled into place.
Each of these procedures can also be performed in combination with others, such as an eyelid lift or a nose job, which can further enhance the results.