Many patients want to know exactly how long does a facelift last? It’s an important question to ask and comes with somewhat of a lengthy answer.
A facelift can take 10-15 years off of a person’s appearance and feels like a fresh start in many ways. Once surgery has been performed and the SMAS layer, deep muscle, has been lifted and properly secured, it’s not necessarily going to drop back down on any certain day or number of years later. The aging process does continue after facelift surgery no matter what is done. This process is determined by many factors, including ones genetics, hormones, activity level, nutrition, skincare regimens, stress levels, etc. Those deep tissues will become weaker overtime and results are not completely permanent.
That being said, with a facelift or MACS facelift performed by Dr. Thompson, the improvement does last forever even though the aging process still continues. So years after a facelift, it may not look exactly the same is it did 2 months after surgery but you’ll much better than you would had you not undergone facelift surgery.
Also, the quality of of ones skin before surgery will have an effect on the lasting results. A heavy smoker or sun worshipper may experience signs of neck laxity sooner than someone with healthy skin would following facelift surgery. As mentioned above, sticking with a good skincare regimen with daily sunscreen use will not only enhance your overall results but maintain them as well. We see many patients following facelift surgery for skincare purchases and sometimes minor small touch-ups years later. Good habits and minimal maintenance can really keep your face looking fresh and youthful.
Overall, a facelift procedure that lifts the deeper tissues and not just the skin will provide the longest lasting results possible when performed by an experienced surgeon. Experience and training is not only important for long-lasting results but to prevent unwanted results. We have all seen people who clearly look like they had work done, obvious scars and/or ears that are no longer in their natural position.
To learn more about Dr. Thompson and his credentials, visit our Meet Dr. Thompson page or call (801)776-2220 to schedule a consultation.