A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic procedure which improves signs of aging in the face and neck. Typically, a person gets a facelift in order to restore a more youthful appearance, reducing wrinkles, eliminating sag, creases, loss of muscle tone, fatty deposits and unsightly bags; in effect, a face lift is an attempt to reverse the effects of time and stress.

Prospective candidates for face lift procedures should be physically healthy, preferably non-smokers and they should be realistic in their expectations. A face lift does not stop the aging process, nor does it change one’s basic look. There are less invasive procedures such as chemical peels, thermage, a procedure utilizing radio waves to reduce wrinkles and to accentuate contours, and microdermabrasion, among others.

Many people prefer to get multiple procedures done at once, combining a face lift with forehead or brow lift and a neck lift as well. There are in fact, numerous procedures and variations on the technique. Examples include deep plane life, the mid-facelift, and SMAS. The SMAS facelift implies lifting the skin and pulling it back beneath the hairline. The cost for this procedure ranges from $10,000 to $15,000. The mid-facelift targets the mouth and cheek region. Cuts are made inside the mouth and in the hairline. The layer of fat over the cheekbones is lifted to correct sagging cheek. The typical price tag runs along the lines of $6,000 to $10,000. The deep plane is more invasive than the SMAS. This is recommended for older patients with severe skin sagging. This lift lasts for 10 to 15 years and costs around $15,000.

Facial implants have become increasingly popular. These are usually inserted in the cheek and jaw area to give the face a more supple, youthful look.
Recovery can take several weeks, depending on the type of procedure done.