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Facelift Surgery in San Diego Renew Your Confidence With Timeless Rejuvenation

A facelift is one of the most effective ways to restore youthful facial contours and address visible signs of aging in the face and neck. Whether you're concerned about sagging skin, jowls, loss of jawline definition, or a tired appearance, modern facelift techniques can provide natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation.

At Coastal Plastic Surgeons, our board-certified plastic surgeons perform customized facelift procedures in San Diego designed to refresh your appearance while preserving your natural facial expression and unique features. Through advanced surgical techniques and personalized treatment planning, we help patients achieve smoother contours, improved definition, and renewed confidence.

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What Is a Facelift?

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a facial rejuvenation procedure that restores youthful contours to the face and neck. As we age, collagen loss, gravity, and changes in the deeper facial tissues can lead to sagging cheeks, jowls, loss of jawline definition, and loose neck skin.

Modern facelift surgery does more than tighten skin. Advanced techniques reposition the underlying facial tissues and SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) to restore a more youthful appearance while maintaining natural facial expression and movement.

At Coastal Plastic Surgeons, every facelift in San Diego is customized to the patient's anatomy, degree of aging, and aesthetic goals. Depending on your needs, your surgeon may recommend a SMAS facelift or deep plane facelift to achieve natural-looking, long-lasting facial rejuvenation.

What Can a Facelift Accomplish?

Smooth Away Facial Wrinkles

Collagen loss, sun damage, repeated muscle contractions, and environmental and lifestyle factors cause lines and deep creases to develop on your face and neck. Facelift surgery lifts and tightens skin and the underlying tissue to minimize or erase these wrinkles. In the past, facelift procedures only tightened the skin, and the results left much to be desired. However, with today’s facelift techniques, both the skin and the underlying tissues are considered, allowing patients to maintain a natural but aesthetically improved look.

Rid Yourself of Hanging Jowls

Another tell-tale sign of aging is the loosening skin around your jawline. As facial muscles in the midface weaken, they droop and form jowls. These pockets of skin and tissue obstruct the youthful, defined angles of the jaw and contribute to an aged appearance. Facelift surgery tightens facial muscles and trims away the excess skin to restore smoother, younger-appearing jawline contours.

Restore Facial Volume

While many of us would be happy to get rid of unwanted fat that develops with age, we are not so eager to say goodbye to the youthful fullness of our cheeks. Unfortunately, the fat pads under the cheek area lose volume, causing your face to look sunken and hollow. Facelift surgery recontours and resuspends facial tissue, muscles, and fat, which helps to give the face a more contoured and fuller look. You can also include a fat transfer procedure or facial fillers for additional volume.

Say Goodbye to Your Turkey Neck

Our surgeons will typically include a neck lift with your facelift to ensure a smooth transition between your face, jaw, chin, and neck because no one wants their loose neck skin to give away their age after having a facelift.

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The Deep Plane Facelift

For patients seeking the most natural-looking, long-lasting facelift results, the deep plane facelift is widely considered the gold standard in facial rejuvenation. Unlike traditional facelift techniques that primarily tighten the skin or superficial tissues, the deep plane approach releases key facial ligaments and repositions the deeper facial tissues, including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system)—as a single, unified layer.

By lifting the deeper foundation of the face rather than relying on skin tension, a deep plane facelift restores youthful contours where aging actually occurs. This advanced technique effectively rejuvenates the midface, softens nasolabial folds, improves jawline definition, reduces jowling, and enhances neck contours while maintaining natural facial movement and expression.

Because the underlying tissues are repositioned rather than pulled tight, patients enjoy a refreshed appearance that avoids the overly tight or windswept look associated with older facelift methods. The result is comprehensive facial rejuvenation with natural-looking outcomes that often last 10–15 years or longer.

Face Lift & Neck Lift San Diego CA

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What Does Undergoing a Facelift Involve?

When you choose Coastal Plastic Surgeons for your San Diego facelift, we understand that no two facelift surgeries should be approached the same; instead, our surgeons create surgical plans that are as unique as you are.

Your San Diego Facelift Consultation

It all begins with an in-depth consultation, at which time our surgeon will listen carefully to your specific, age-related facial and neck concerns. They will review your medical history, examine your face and neck, then explain your options and what you can expect before, during, and after your surgery. You will also be provided with an accurate cost estimate. We encourage you to make a list of questions to ask during your consultation and request to see examples of our facelift before and after results.

Call Coastal Plastic Surgeons in San Diego today to learn more about our San Diego facelift options. We also offer the GRBx™ facelift and neck lift for individuals with sagging facial and neck skin due to significant weight loss.

Can I Combine My Facelift With Other Cosmetic Facial Procedures?

Because facelift surgery targets the lower two-thirds of the face, we encourage you to add procedures to enhance the upper face and eyes for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. The following cosmetic procedures can be performed at the same time as your facelift surgery for even more dramatic results.

  • Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) can eliminate upper eyelid hooding and reduce bags beneath the eyes.
  • Brow lift surgery raises drooping brows and relaxes forehead lines.
  • Otoplasty (cosmetic ear surgery) repositions protruding ears closer to the scalp.

You can also add one of these injectable treatments after you have recovered from surgery to address lines on the forehead and around the eyes or add more volume to the cheeks and lips:

The Facelift Procedure

Facelift surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, typically under general anesthesia. Depending on your anatomy, degree of facial aging, and aesthetic goals, your surgeon may use advanced techniques such as SMAS or deep-plane facelifts to achieve the most natural-looking, long-lasting result.

During surgery, the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) and deeper facial tissues are carefully repositioned to restore youthful facial contours. By addressing the underlying structures of the face rather than simply tightening the skin, facelift surgery can improve sagging cheeks, jowls, and the jawline, and address neck laxity while preserving natural facial expression and movement.

While every procedure is customized, most facelift surgeries include the following steps:

  • Incisions are discreetly placed within the hairline and around the ears to minimize visible scarring.
  • The deeper facial tissues and SMAS layer are elevated and repositioned to restore volume and support.
  • Excess skin is conservatively removed and redraped without creating an overly tight or pulled appearance.
  • Fat deposits may be refined to enhance facial contours and improve definition along the cheeks, jawline, and neck.

A neck lift is commonly performed in conjunction with facelift surgery to address loose neck skin, platysmal banding, and submental fullness (double chin). This combined approach creates a smoother, more seamless transition between the face, jawline, and neck for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Following surgery, drains may be placed temporarily to reduce swelling and support healing.

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Facelift Recovery Timeline

Recovery after facelift surgery is a gradual process as swelling resolves and facial tissues settle into their new position. While every patient heals differently, most facelift patients in San Diego can expect the following recovery timeline:

Week 1: Swelling and Bruising

Swelling, bruising, tightness, and mild discomfort are common during the first week after facelift surgery. Patients are encouraged to rest, keep their head elevated, and follow all post-operative instructions carefully. Temporary numbness around the cheeks, jawline, neck, and ears is also normal during this stage of healing.

Week 2: Social Recovery

Most patients feel comfortable returning to social activities and non-strenuous work within 10–14 days. Bruising has typically faded significantly, and swelling continues to improve. While patients often look refreshed at this stage, subtle healing remains ongoing beneath the surface.

Weeks 3–6: Tissue Settling and Jawline Refinement

As deeper facial tissues continue to heal, patients notice progressive improvement in jawline definition, cheek contours, and neck tightness. Residual swelling decreases steadily, revealing a smoother, more youthful facial contour. Mild tightness or numbness may persist but continues to improve over time.

Months 2–6: Scar Healing and Incision Maturation

Facelift incisions are carefully concealed around the ears and hairline. During the following months, scars soften, flatten, and fade as incision maturation progresses. Most patients find that their scars become increasingly difficult to detect as healing continues.

Final Results

Although patients see significant improvement within the first few weeks, final facelift results emerge gradually as swelling fully resolves and tissues settle into their long-term position. The result is a smoother jawline, firmer neck contour, restored facial definition, and natural-looking facial rejuvenation that can last for many years.

Throughout your recovery, the surgeons at Coastal Plastic Surgeons provide detailed aftercare instructions and close follow-up to help ensure optimal healing, patient comfort, and beautiful long-term facelift results.

Hear What Our Clients Say

I went to Dr. Batra because he was a recommended by my friend and seeing the results he had with her I was impressed! So I decided to do my tummy tuck. In my second week post op I ...

I went to Dr. Batra because he was a recommended by my friend and seeing the results he had with her I was impressed! So I decided to do my tummy tuck. In my second week post op I cried because I was so amazed how my belly looks. I’m going on 4 weeks now and I couldn’t be more proud and Dr. Batra did amazing job on my tummy tuck. I highly recommend him! Speaking about perfectionists, he is and you want that as a surgeon. I’m just so excited and looking forward for full recovery! Thank you Dr. Batra, you’re awesome!

—Q.T.

I’m so pleased with my tummy tuck, everything went super well, and he is the best San Diego. I’m recommending him to my family & friend's. Every follow up appointme...

I’m so pleased with my tummy tuck, everything went super well, and he is the best San Diego. I’m recommending him to my family & friend's. Every follow up appointment he would listen to my questions or concerns and answer everything with honesty. Thank you Dr. Batra.

—L.K.

The most professional, caring and competent staff led by the amazing Dr. Batra! From the first appointment, I was made to feel comfortable and cared for! I highly recommend this pl...

The most professional, caring and competent staff led by the amazing Dr. Batra! From the first appointment, I was made to feel comfortable and cared for! I highly recommend this place! Dr. Batra is not only an outstanding surgeon, but a very kind and caring person with a great personality and sense of humor. I also can’t say enough great things about the staff!

—L.H.

I am in my 6 weeks recovery from breast reduction. I am very pleased with the results. Dr Batra as well as his staff were very comforting before and after the surgery. They schedul...

I am in my 6 weeks recovery from breast reduction. I am very pleased with the results. Dr Batra as well as his staff were very comforting before and after the surgery. They scheduled me for the surgery in less than a month after my first visit and the procedure went by much easier than I expected. My neck and back pain disappeared, the shape and size of my breast is just what I expected. I truly feel that I was lucky to have the surgery done with this amazing surgery group.

—N.T.

I underwent a breast augmentation and lift procedure with Dr. Batra at Coastal Plastic Surgeon’s 10 weeks ago, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results. From the init...

I underwent a breast augmentation and lift procedure with Dr. Batra at Coastal Plastic Surgeon’s 10 weeks ago, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results. From the initial consultation with staff to post-operative care, the entire experience was nothing short of wonderful. I was so nervous about having the procedure done but my old implants were encapsulated and needed to come out.

Not only did Dr. Batra deliver outstanding results that exceeded my expectations, but his bedside manner was truly exceptional. He took the time to listen to my concerns, answer all my questions, and ensure that I felt comfortable and informed throughout the entire process.

I highly recommend Dr. Batra to anyone considering a breast augmentation or lift. His skill, attention to detail, and compassionate approach set him apart as a top-tier plastic surgeon. Thank you, Dr. Batra, for your exceptional care and for helping me achieve the confidence I've always desired.

—K.R.

I had an explant and lift on May 9th 2025…the experience was top rate. I felt heard, safe, and comfortable the entire time and the results were just what I hoped for.

—C.T.

As a mother of two it was time for...."a little work." After considering multiple surgeons in deferent areas I had consultations with two. After my consultation it was clear....Dr....

As a mother of two it was time for...."a little work." After considering multiple surgeons in deferent areas I had consultations with two. After my consultation it was clear....Dr. Batra was the most knowledgeable, professional and attentive to my concerns. He felt very trust worthy and not creepy at all. The procedure went great and recovery went well. Dr. Betra and his team especially Alexa were the best. Im so happy with my results! I would highly recommend Coastal Plastic Surgery to anyone. Don't put it off ladies it's sooo worth it.

—A.D.

I'm the type of person who doesn't typically write reviews or even have the time, but my recent experience with Coastal Plastic Surgeons is definitely worth my time! I am a mommy o...

I'm the type of person who doesn't typically write reviews or even have the time, but my recent experience with Coastal Plastic Surgeons is definitely worth my time! I am a mommy of three, with my youngest being 2 years of age. After each baby I'd bounce back to my original weight but as you know the beauty of having children can leave devastating damage to the appearance of our bodies. After three breastfed big babies I was left with an unrecognizable belly button, hanging excess tissue and droopy breasts I knew NO workout or diet could remedy! I made the best decision in having a full tummy tuck and breast implants done by Dr. Batra! I never thought I'd be able to wear a two piece ever again! I felt very confident with his knowledge and experience. Trust them when they express their opinions because they were absolutely right! I wanted to go very natural and at first I was afraid with the size preference of the implants chosen for me, but in the end the results were perfect so I'm happy I listened. I would highly recommend this place to anyone who is in doubt!

—A.T.

Is it weird that I'm excited to write this review?! I can't say enough great things about Dr. Batra and his staff! I decided to schedule a BA consultation with Dr Batra after seein...

Is it weird that I'm excited to write this review?! I can't say enough great things about Dr. Batra and his staff! I decided to schedule a BA consultation with Dr Batra after seeing the amazing pictures on his website. Dr. Batra was super warm, honest, and professional from day one. He took time to really listen, offered an honest opinion, and made me feel so comfortable. It has only been 7 weeks since my surgery and I'm already beyond thrilled with my results. Dr. Batra is truly talented yet is so humble. Nicole was so encouraging and genuine through the whole process. Rachel was really sweet and informative. Kelsey is always so pleasant on the phone and makes scheduling a breeze. I was also really impressed by the surgery center. The nurses went above and beyond and seriously spoiled me. I never thought surgery could actually be enjoyable! I was anticipating the worst with the recovery process due to friends experiences, but was blown away by how little pain I experienced. I feel incredibly blessed that I was in such great care and picked such an awesome surgeon! I would do it all over again in a heartbeat and wouldn't change a thing! Thank you Dr. Batra and staff for taking such wonderful care of me and making me feel so special!

—C.M.

I had my first surgery (breast augmentation) in January with Dr. Batra. He is an amazing person besides doctor. He did a great job and has followed me constantly on my recovery. If...

I had my first surgery (breast augmentation) in January with Dr. Batra. He is an amazing person besides doctor. He did a great job and has followed me constantly on my recovery. If you want someone safe and who will contact you or answer you immediately when you have a concern pick him! My last follow up I told him about my legs I’ve been going to the gym for over a decade almost two decades actually and have not been able to shape them. Dr. Batra doesn’t make me feel like anything is wrong with me. He makes me feel so comfortable and it’s so easy to tell him my concerns he told me it was such a common thing and that meant everything to me. He eases my concerns and most importantly makes me feel safe. I had consultants in the past that made me uncomfortable and never went past a consultation. Being a nurse I am a little picky with my health. His staff is amazing I wish I remembered everyone’s name but specifically Miriam is amazing! Not that anyone else is any less it’s just when you go she will be your contact person for almost everything. She answers my questions. She gets back to me immediately even off the clock. You are awesome thank you for answering me. Just today I sent her a message thinking she would get back to me tomorrow morning when she was back at work and she called me after her dinner!!! Thank you for easing my experience. You guys are amazing I can’t wait till next week my second surgery with you and definitely not my last!

—M.C.

My experience with Dr. Batra has been AMAZING! I had multiple consults that left me feeling doubtful. The day I met Dr.Batra he was very knowledgeable and reassuring. I am now comi...

My experience with Dr. Batra has been AMAZING! I had multiple consults that left me feeling doubtful. The day I met Dr.Batra he was very knowledgeable and reassuring. I am now coming up on my third week post-op, and so happy with my results! If you have any desire to do something for yourself book a consultation with Dr.Batra because you won’t regret it.

—X. J.

I just want to say Courtney from Dr. Batras office is so patient and understanding! I could talk to her about anything, I have surgery comming up and have been so nervous about the...

I just want to say Courtney from Dr. Batras office is so patient and understanding! I could talk to her about anything, I have surgery comming up and have been so nervous about the whole process but she has been a huge help! So far im very pleased ill be back to let you know how surgery goes.

—C.F.

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I have never met a nicer Doctor/Surgeon. He is not your typical cold, no talk Doctor. He is a very nice and caring person who completely makes you feel comfortable. I had a wonderf...

I have never met a nicer Doctor/Surgeon. He is not your typical cold, no talk Doctor. He is a very nice and caring person who completely makes you feel comfortable. I had a wonderful surgery experience with Dr. Batra. I had to have a hysterectomy and an umbilical hernia repair/tummy tuck. This typically means two separate surgeries. Dr. Batra helped me tremendously because he did my hernia repair/tummy tuck at the same time as my O.B. did the hysterectomy. He is so easy going and kind. I did not have to do two surgeries because he was so workable with my situation and needs. The office ladies are a pleasure to talk to and are very personable. I had a great experience with Dr. Batra and the entire staff. I feel 100% better and my tummy is hernia free and beautiful again! I have recommended him to my friends and family because my experience was truly amazing. Thank You Dr. Batra!!

—AF

I was referred to Dr. Batra by a friend. From the moment I met Dr. Batra I knew he would be my plastic surgeon. I felt so comfortable with him that I booked my surgery the same day...

I was referred to Dr. Batra by a friend. From the moment I met Dr. Batra I knew he would be my plastic surgeon. I felt so comfortable with him that I booked my surgery the same day of the consultation. I had a tummy tuck done with Liposuction. Not only did he do an amazing work but he was so caring and attentive that he put my mind at ease. I highly recommend Dr. Batra to anyone that is interested in plastic surgery.

—RF

I have been getting surgeries since i was 3 years old. I was in a kitchen fire at age 3 and suffered from burn scars on my face and arms. After 18 years of getting surgeries done o...

I have been getting surgeries since i was 3 years old. I was in a kitchen fire at age 3 and suffered from burn scars on my face and arms. After 18 years of getting surgeries done on my face all over southern california I have never met such a talented and generous surgeon! He did a PRO BONO surgery on me without me asking. I have never felt so warm and welcomed in a surgeons office. Him and his staff are amazing. After several consultations with plenty of doctors i automatically knew I wanted Dr. Batra to do my surgery, and i am so happy I did. I recommend him to all of my clients, Family & friends especially for any work on the face. He is the only one i trust. I am forever Grateful of him!

—YI

I would recommend Dr Batra to friends and family. He was very professional in the last year at all visits and during my surgery. I trusted that he would do a good job and my result...

I would recommend Dr Batra to friends and family. He was very professional in the last year at all visits and during my surgery. I trusted that he would do a good job and my results were better than I expected.

—SO

I am currently 3 months post op after having both a tummy tuck and an arm lift. Dr. Batra is a true artist. He, Dr. Rod, Miriam, and the rest of his team were all fantastic. I love...

I am currently 3 months post op after having both a tummy tuck and an arm lift.

Dr. Batra is a true artist. He, Dr. Rod, Miriam, and the rest of his team were all fantastic.

I love my new silhouette. The end results are way better than I ever imagined they could be!

—AL

I had a Tummy Tuck six months ago and i couldn’t be happier. Dr. Batra’s staff, surgical team and staff were amazing. Dr. Batra is confident, caring and gave me a phenomenal new tu...

I had a Tummy Tuck six months ago and i couldn’t be happier. Dr. Batra’s staff, surgical team and staff were amazing. Dr. Batra is confident, caring and gave me a phenomenal new tummy. I would encourage everyone who’s considering plastic surgery to make an appointment with him for your free consultation and you’ll see what I mean. Good Luck.

—JK

My surgery was a HUGE success. More important than how wonderful my surgery and surgeon was, I felt completely cared for and even pampered throughout my care leading up to surgery ...

My surgery was a HUGE success. More important than how wonderful my surgery and surgeon was, I felt completely cared for and even pampered throughout my care leading up to surgery and after. Today was a huge day for me. For the first time in over 10 years I went to the beach confidently wearing a bikini. The only reason I was able to do this was because of Dr. Batra and his staff. And the excellent customer service and care just keeps going. I will never go to another surgeon if I ever need plastic surgery again. I am 5 weeks out of surgery, my true results are not even there yet, and I feel like a new person. Thank you just doesn’t seem to cover it. If you are considering plastic surgery go see Dr. Batra. I cannot say enough. And I still love you, Maryam!!

—JF

I couldn’t ask for a better surgeon and I love my outcome!!! I get compliments all the time on how perfect my breasts are and would recommend him to anyone! Including my good frien...

I couldn’t ask for a better surgeon and I love my outcome!!! I get compliments all the time on how perfect my breasts are and would recommend him to anyone! Including my good friend who also got a breast augmentation from Dr. Batra and can’t stop talking about them! Thanks Dr. Batra, you and your staff are amazing!

—KC

After multiple consultations with plastic surgeons in and out of the area, I decided on Dr. Batra. I had 2 breast surgeries from another p.s. both ending with capsular contracture ...

After multiple consultations with plastic surgeons in and out of the area, I decided on Dr. Batra. I had 2 breast surgeries from another p.s. both ending with capsular contracture and a lot of miscommunication, so finding a surgeon who is humble, confident, and attentive was very important to me. Dr. Batra has the hands of an angel and I hardly felt any pain after surgery, and what little pain I did feel Tylenol took care of. I am 10 weeks post op and my results are beautiful and I can finally be confident about my breasts thanks to Dr. Batra. I would definitely recommend him to anyone, especially those who are needing a revision.

*Update- I am 16 months post op and have healed beautifully! Just wanted to update this because I know how difficult it is finding a really good surgeon, and I’m just so happy and grateful everything turned out well thanks to Dr. Batra.

—CB

Dr. Batra is a true Artist. I’m six months out from my surgery. I couldn’t be happier with my outcome. My breasts are PERFECT and so is my liposuction. After having a baby and brea...

Dr. Batra is a true Artist. I’m six months out from my surgery. I couldn’t be happier with my outcome. My breasts are PERFECT and so is my liposuction. After having a baby and breast feeding, I was very self conscious about wearing a bikini or strapless dresses. After Dr. Batra did my surgery, I can wear anything I want. I love the implant size that Dr. Batra recommended for me. They look and feel very natural. Thank you Dr. Batra for giving me my body back.

—MG

I had an amazing experience with Dr Batra and his staff at Coastal Plastic Surgeons over the last year while having a tummy tuck post twins. From my initial visit, to pre op, the a...

I had an amazing experience with Dr Batra and his staff at Coastal Plastic Surgeons over the last year while having a tummy tuck post twins. From my initial visit, to pre op, the actual surgery and many follow up appointments, he remained professional and the staff was very helpful. I would recommend him and his team to friends and family.

—SO

I have been seeing Dr. Batra for several years. He originally repaired a botched breast reduction and lip enhancement messed up by a well known Del Mar plastic surgeon. Since that ...

I have been seeing Dr. Batra for several years. He originally repaired a botched breast reduction and lip enhancement messed up by a well known Del Mar plastic surgeon. Since that time, I have continued to see Dr. Batra for way less serious problems and overall “fun” improvements. He is the best botox and filler doctor out there. I rarely even bruise after the injections. I have been to other doctors in the past for this and experienced severe bruising.

I went to see Dr. Batra today and after I left his office, I felt compelled to let you all know again how great he and his staff are. I just love those guys and the great work that they do.

—CT

My breasts were left physically deformed after nursing 3 boys, but Dr. Batra revived my breasts and made them perfect!! I could not be happier with the customer service, cost, and ...

My breasts were left physically deformed after nursing 3 boys, but Dr. Batra revived my breasts and made them perfect!! I could not be happier with the customer service, cost, and work that was done to me. I had a breast augmentation (no lift) and got 440cc silicone implants. It has been only a month since surgery but I am MORE than satisfied with the results!

Thank you Dr. Batra and team! You have rejuvenated my spirit!!!

—AD

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Facelift Before & After

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Some Common Concerns About Facelift Surgery

How Much Does a Facelift Cost in San Diego?

The cost of your facelift surgery depends on several factors, including the extent of correction you desire, anesthesia fees, facility fees, surgical fees, and the costs of pre-surgical tests, post-surgical dressings, and medications. You will be provided an estimate of your facelift costs at the end of your consultation. Coastal Plastic Surgeons offer financing options through Alphaeon® and CareCredit® to help their patients make their dream surgery a reality.

What Is Recovery From Facelift Surgery Like?

Facelift surgery manipulates facial skin and tissues; you can expect bruising and swelling after this procedure. Your surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for yourself and your incisions during your recovery. Following these instructions will allow you to heal more quickly and help provide desirable results.

How Painful Is a Facelift?

Facelift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia to prevent pain during or immediately following the procedure. You may experience mild to moderate discomfort after the anesthesia wears off. Your surgeon can prescribe pain medication, but many patients find over-the-counter medicines and cold compresses work well to control discomfort. Most patients find the discomfort after facelift surgery to be quite bearable. Depending on how fast the swelling subsides, they can typically return to work or their normal activities within one to two weeks. Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for four to six weeks or until your surgeon clears you.

Will I Have Scars After My Facelift?

The incision for facelift surgery is usually made along the hairline and around the ear. Our surgeons work diligently to make your incisions as small and inconspicuous as possible, but scarring may develop along these areas. Scars are well hidden within the hairline and will fade over time. You can minimize your scars with proper wound care, protecting your incisions from sun exposure, and applying silicone strips or gel.

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FAQs Facelift

Am I a candidate for a facelift?

Facelift surgery benefits healthy men and women looking to achieve a more youthful profile with fewer wrinkles, sagging skin, jowls, and tissue displacement. Candidates must be non-smokers with realistic expectations and a positive outlook for their procedure. Patients must follow all pre-and post-operative instructions to ensure a safe recovery and desirable results.

Will people know I’ve had a facelift?

Good plastic surgery results are undetectable. The best results are those that look natural but are still beautiful and dynamic. We’ve all seen images of women and men who have clearly had work done to their faces. The best facelift results do not fall into this category. With a successful facelift, no one will know that you had surgery. Instead, they will simply see the refreshed and more youthful face you are presenting to the world.

Is there a non-surgical alternative to a facelift?

Injectable treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers sometimes advertise themselves as a non-invasive alternative to a facelift. While these treatments can temporarily fill fine lines, wrinkles, and volume loss, they do not last as long and cannot treat the same depth of facial aging as facelift surgery. Dermal fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic are often combined with a facelift to enhance results; however, they are not an alternative to a facelift.

Are there any potential long-term risks?

Facelift surgery has long been performed with few long-term or permanent side effects. Sadly, as with any surgical procedure, the possibility of long-term or severe risk is present. Some of these risks include:

  • Adverse reactions to anesthesia
  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Prolonged swelling
  • Nerve injury or weakness
  • Fluid accumulation
  • Persistent pain
  • Changes in skin sensation

Aesthetic risks also include:

  • Poor wound healing
  • Unfavorable scarring
  • Hair loss at the incision sites
  • Skin discoloration
  • Facial asymmetry

You can reduce these risks by following your plastic surgeon’s pre-and post-operative instructions.

How long does a facelift last?

The results from your facelift are long-lasting, with many patients seeing a noticeable improvement for up to a decade. Facelift surgery will not prevent the natural progression of aging, and additional sun damage or lack of proper skin care and maintenance can negatively impact your results.

Coastal Plastic Surgeons for Your San Diego Facelift

Choosing your surgical team is an instrumental part of your facelift experience. At Coastal Plastic Surgeons’ state-of-the-art facility, we offer advanced facial rejuvenation techniques and compassionate care. Please contact us to learn more.

Our San Diego plastic surgeons are renowned in Southern California for their expertise in facial rejuvenation and have treated numerous facelift, neck lift, eyelid surgery, brow lift, and otoplasty patients.

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