Modern facelift techniques have evolved dramatically, offering natural-looking results with subtle rejuvenation—not the pulled or overdone appearance of decades past. Dr. Brent Howley uses advanced surgical methods to lift and tighten the deeper layers of the face and remove excess skin, restoring smoother, more youthful facial contours while maintaining your natural expressions.

What a Facelift Can Address

A facelift is designed to correct visible signs of aging in the lower face and neck:

  • Sagging cheeks and jowls
  • Deep creases around the nose and mouth (nasolabial folds)
  • Loose skin and fat along the jawline
  • Turkey neck or neck banding
  • Facial volume loss or drooping in the midface
  • Loss of definition in the jawline and chin

The Modern Approach

Dr. Howley employs a deep plane or SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) technique that lifts not just the skin, but the underlying muscle and connective tissue. This creates more natural, longer-lasting results than older techniques that only addressed the skin.

Natural-Looking Results

The goal is to restore a refreshed, rested appearance—not to change who you are. Patients consistently report that friends and family notice they look "well-rested" or "refreshed" rather than obviously having had surgery.

Complementary Procedures

For comprehensive facial rejuvenation, a facelift is often combined with:

  • Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): Addresses droopy eyelids and under-eye bags
  • Brow Lift: Elevates sagging brows and smooths forehead wrinkles
  • Fat Transfer: Restores lost volume in the cheeks and temples
  • Laser Resurfacing: Improves skin texture and fine lines

The Procedure

Facelift surgery typically takes 3-5 hours and is performed under general anesthesia at our accredited surgical facility. Incisions are carefully placed along the hairline and around the ear where they can be easily concealed. Dr. Howley meticulously closes all incisions to minimize scarring.

Recovery

Most patients take 2-3 weeks off work. Swelling and bruising are normal and gradually subside over several weeks. Sutures are typically removed within 7-10 days. While you'll see immediate improvement, final results continue to develop over several months as tissues settle and swelling completely resolves.

Longevity of Results

A facelift doesn't stop the aging process, but it does turn back the clock significantly. Most patients enjoy their results for 10-15 years. Maintaining good skin care, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle will help preserve your rejuvenated appearance.

Facelift FAQ

At what age should I consider a facelift?

There's no "right" age for a facelift. Most patients are between 45-70, but the best time is when you're bothered by sagging and jowls that don't respond to non-surgical treatments. Your overall health and skin quality are more important than your age.

Will I look like myself after surgery?

Absolutely. Dr. Howley's goal is to restore a refreshed, natural version of yourself—not to change your fundamental appearance. Modern techniques preserve your natural expressions and avoid the "windswept" look of outdated methods.

How long do facelift results last?

Results typically last 10-15 years. While you'll continue to age naturally, you'll always look better than if you hadn't had the procedure. Many patients are pleased with their results for decades.

Can men have facelifts?

Yes, facelifts are increasingly popular among men. Dr. Howley uses techniques that account for male anatomy, including beard growth patterns and skin thickness, to achieve masculine, natural results.

Ready to Learn More?

Schedule a consultation to discuss facial rejuvenation with Dr. Howley.

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