8 Tips for a Natural-Looking Facelift

Want the most natural-looking results possible from a facelift? The Los Angeles area’s Dr. Mo Zakhireh at Palm Desert’s Cosmetic Surgery Institute explains that facelifts are cosmetic procedures that aim to rejuvenate the face by removing sagging skin, restoring lost volume, and tightening underlying tissues.

“While facelifts can produce excellent results, some patients worry that they will end up with a tight, unnatural appearance that betrays their surgical history,” he says.

With that in mind, if you are considering a facelift and want to ensure that the results look as natural as possible, there are several things you can do:

1. Choose an Experienced and Qualified Plastic Surgeon

Your surgeon's skills and experience are key factors in achieving natural-looking results. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive training and experience in facelift procedures. Ask to see before-and-after photos of the surgeon's patients and look for examples of facelifts that have produced natural-looking results.

2. Have Realistic Expectations

While facelifts can produce impressive results, it is important to have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. A facelift cannot turn back the clock, but it can restore a more youthful appearance to the face by removing sagging skin and restoring lost volume. Your surgeon should be able to provide you with a clear understanding of what you can expect from the procedure.

3. Consider Non-Surgical Alternatives

Dr. Zakhireh says: “If you have only mild to moderate signs of aging, you may be a candidate for non-surgical alternatives such as dermal fillers or neuromodulators. These treatments can restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and create a more youthful appearance without the need for surgery.” 

4. Address Underlying Issues

Facelifts are most effective when performed in conjunction with other procedures that address underlying issues. For example, if you have lost significant volume in your face, a fat transfer or other volume-restoring procedure may be recommended in addition to the facelift. If you have wrinkles, a laser resurfacing treatment may be recommended to improve the texture and tone of your skin. These complementary procedures can help create a more natural-looking result by addressing a wide range of aging concerns.

5. Choose a Minimally Invasive Approach

In recent years, minimally invasive facelift techniques have become increasingly popular. These procedures use small incisions and specialized instruments to lift and tighten the tissues of the face, reducing the need for extensive skin removal. This can result in a more natural-looking outcome since there is less scarring and a more limited removal of skin.

6. Avoid Over-Correction

It is possible to have too much of a good thing when it comes to facelifts. Over-correction can result in a tight and unnatural appearance that can be difficult to reverse. Over-tightening of the skin and underlying tissues can result in a pulled, unnatural appearance. Work closely with your surgeon to ensure that the right amount of lift is applied to achieve the results you want.

7. Maintain a Natural Hairline

A natural hairline is key to a subtle and natural-looking facelift. Your surgeon should work to preserve your hairline and minimize scarring in this area. A natural-looking hairline requires careful planning and preparation. Your surgeon will need to assess the position, angle, and shape of your hairline, as well as work with you to create a plan that will result in a subtle and natural-looking outcome. If your hairline has receded or you are experiencing hair loss, a hair transplant can help to create a natural-looking hairline.

8. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle after your facelift can help you enjoy your results for as long as possible. This includes eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, getting regular exercise, and avoiding exposure to sun and other environmental factors that can accelerate aging.

A natural-looking facelift requires careful consideration and planning. By choosing the right surgeon, having realistic expectations, and taking steps to maintain your results over time, you can achieve the youthful, refreshed appearance you desire.

Ready to learn more about what’s involved in a facelift? The team at Cosmetic Surgery Institute can explain more. Call (760) 837-0364 or submit a contact form to request a consultation.