Dr. Serebrakian is a leading surgeon in the San Francisco Bay Area for facial rejuvenation procedures, including facelift surgery. He is double boarded by the American Board of Head & Neck Surgery and American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery.
What is a Facelift?
A facelift is a surgical procedure used to correct sagging skin and facial muscles, and contour the lower half of the face. It rejuvenates and reverses the signs of aging by tightening the muscle, removing fat and trimming excess skin, giving the face a fresher, more youthful look. For patients hoping to improve the top half of their face, we suggest considering a brow lift.
Who is a Good Candidate for Facelift Surgery?
Most anyone over the age of 45 could benefit from a facelift of some sort. Generally, a facelift rejuvenates the mid-to-lower face and neck. Ideal candidates normally relate to one or more of the following characteristics on your face:
- Mid-face sagging
- Deep creases under your eyes
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Jowls have formed on your jawline
- Fatty, sagging areas just below your cheekbones
- Loose skin, wrinkles, vertical cords, and fatty tissue on your neck
The length and involvement of the procedure depend on how much time you’ve spent in the sun, environmental issues, personal habits, and stresses.
Facelift Before & After Photos
Types of Facelift Procedures
Although approaches vary depending on the treatment and the patient’s needs, facelift surgery has some universal characteristics that make the surgery safer and more intricate than ever before. Two popular types of facelift surgery include the mini facelift and a full facelift.
Mini Facelift:
A mini facelift, also known as a “celebrity facelift”, is an appropriate procedure for treating aging signs from the jaw upward. It is not particularly effective for lifting the neck and chin. This procedure is less invasive than a traditional facelift and requires minimal downtime (less than a week of recovery).
Full Facelift:
A full, or complete, facelift improves the appearance of the neck, the jaw, and the cheeks before the cheekbones. This procedure is often recommended for our patients in San Francisco, who experience more extreme signs of aging.
What Our Patients Have To Say
"Dr. Serebrakian did an amazing job with one of my family member’s neck and face lift. He didn’t make her skin look pulled, so it looked completely natural. He and his staff kept made themselves available 24/7 right after the surgery in the case that she needed to consult with them. Highly recommend him!"
Can Facelift Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?
Patients who undergo facelift surgery often combine it with other cosmetic procedures. Most commonly, a facelift is combined with a brow lift, eyelid surgery, laser treatments, injectable fillers, and dermal fillers. Combining procedures allows for less downtime if you were already considering more surgeries.
Can Men Have a Facelift Surgery?
Facelifts can be equally effective for men as for women. Increasingly, men are seeking the benefits of facelift surgery to achieve a younger, rejuvenated look. A consultation with Dr. Serebrakian can help you determine the approaches that best suit the male face, as well as the benefits and risks of the surgery
What to Expect During My Facelift Procedure
The facelift surgeries are being performed at Bay Area Laser Surgery Center, an accredited & certified ambulatory surgery center. Facelift procedure will depend on the patient’s facial structure, and the extent of correction desired. Dr. Serebrakian may choose to use one of two types of techniques, traditional facelift, and limited-incision facelift.
What is the Recovery From a Facelift Procedure?
Scars become less visible and sensitive over time. The recovery period involves:
- Swelling
- Numbness
- Bruising
- Tightness/tension in the face and neck.
What Are the Facelift Risks and Complications?
Of course, all of the risks that accompany any surgery apply to facelift surgery, however, there are some specific potential side effects:
- Injury to the nerves that control facial muscles (usually temporary)
- Numbness or tingling around the incision areas (temporary)
- Hair loss at the incision sites
- Skin discoloration (rare but can continue for several months)
- Skin healing issues (more common with smokers)
How can I Prepare for My Facelift Surgery?
In preparation for your surgery, you will need to stop taking blood-thinning medications and supplements. This may include prescription and OTC medications. We will review the supplements and medications you use to help you determine which will need to be stopped before surgery.
If you use nicotine, including vaping, you must stop at least six weeks before your procedure. This is because nicotine and other vasoconstrictors, including most nasal decongestants, can slow the healing process and result in the development of scars.
We suggest you create a comfortable place to recover before your procedure. Stock it with comforts to allow yourself time to be still and relax for the first few days of recovery. We will provide additional information, including suggestions for recovery, based on your specific needs.
Will Facelift Surgery Leave a Scar?
Scars are possible with both mini and full facelift procedures. You help to reduce your risks by closely following our pre and postoperative advice, including keeping incisions dry and clean, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking care of your body. Avoiding vasoconstrictors will help reduce risks as well.
If scars develop, scar ointments or silicone scar sheets may help diminish their appearance. In addition, several non-surgical skin resurfacing options can also reduce the appearance of scars. We can discuss these as needed to help ensure the best outcomes.
How Long do I Need to Wait to Travel After Facelift Surgery?
It is best to avoid travel for at least one week after facelift surgery. Pressure changes in the cabin can exacerbate discomfort and increase swelling. The strain of traveling can also delay or complicate recovery.
Please discuss travel plans with us if they will occur within a month of your procedure so we can help you plan accordingly.
Will My Facelift Results Look Natural?
Facelift results can look overdone, with the skin drawn too tight, distorting features and producing an unnatural appearance. This is, of course, the exact opposite of what patients are hoping to achieve.
Board-certified surgeon, Dr. Armen Serebrakian, takes every care to plan and perform these delicate surgeries to exacting specifications. During your initial consultation, he will use tools and technology to help you visualize your results, allowing you to better understand what you can expect from the procedure.
Is Facelift Surgery Permanent?
Facelift surgery is long-lasting, but it will not last forever. Gravity, genetics, lifestyle, environment, and more will factor into how long your facelift results last, but by and large, ten years is a realistic expectation.
You can help extend your procedure's results by taking proper care of your skin. We can help you find a skin care regimen that suits your needs and suggest the best products for your specific concerns. Non-surgical cosmetic treatments, such as wrinkle relaxers, dermal fillers, and skin resurfacing, can also help to extend results.
During your initial consultation, Dr. Serebrakian will assess your skin elasticity, discuss your facelift options, and help you determine how long you can expect your results to last.
What Are the Differences Between a Facelift and a Neck Lift?
A facelift mainly targets sagging skin, deep creases, and lost muscle tone in the lower two-thirds of the face. It focuses on lifting and tightening the cheeks, jawline, and areas around the mouth.
On the other hand, a neck lift addresses the neck and the area under the jawline. It removes excess fat and skin. It also tightens the underlying muscles to reduce jowls and a double chin.
A facelift can improve some neck issues. However, it may not be as comprehensive as a dedicated neck lift. For a harmonious and rejuvenated appearance, you can also combine these procedures.
Can a Facelift Address Issues With the Eyelids or Forehead?
A traditional facelift does not typically target the eyelids or forehead. These areas are addressed through other specialized procedures.
For eyelid concerns, blepharoplasty can remove excess skin and fat. It also tightens the surrounding muscles for a more youthful look.
A brow lift or forehead lift is best for treating forehead issues, such as deep frown lines or sagging brows.
Combining either or both of these surgeries with a facelift can provide a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. This will ensure that all areas of the face appear refreshed and balanced.
How Do I Care for My Skin After Facelift Surgery?
Proper post-surgery care is crucial for optimal healing and results. Follow your surgeon’s instructions after surgery. These may include:
- Keeping your head elevated to reduce swelling
- Applying cold compresses
- Cleaning the incision sites gently with mild soap and water
- Applying specific ointments or medications to prevent infection and promote healing
- Staying hydrated and eating a diet rich in micronutrients
- Avoiding smoking, as it can impede healing
- Attending regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Serebrakian
How Do I Maintain My Facelift Results?
You can maintain your facelift results with good skincare practices and healthy lifestyle choices. Here are some examples of steps you can take to prolong the results:
- Protect your skin by using sunscreen daily and wearing protective clothing.
- Cleanse and moisturize your skin daily.
- Use products with anti-aging ingredients like retinoids and antioxidants.
- Avoid smoking, as it accelerates skin aging and damages collagen.
- Exercise regularly to maintain overall health and skin elasticity.
- Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet with lots of antioxidant-rich foods.
- Consider periodic non-surgical treatments like laser therapy, dermal fillers, or Botox® Cosmetic.
What to Expect During Your Facelift Consultation With Dr. Serebrakian
During your consultation, Dr. Serebrakian will discuss the options available to you. He will consult with you to help you determine which procedures are best suited for your needs, and which will give you the results you desire. Some patients might find that they can attain their goals with a less invasive procedure, such as chemical or laser peels. Others may be happier with their results if they combine facelift surgery with other procedures, such as a neck lift or brow lift.
Facelift for Different Age Groups
Facelifts are highly customizable and can benefit individuals across a range of ages:
- In Your 40s: Address early signs of aging, such as mild sagging and wrinkles, often with a mini facelift.
- In Your 50s: Correct moderate aging concerns, such as deeper nasolabial folds, jowls, and loose skin around the jawline and neck. A full facelift is often recommended.
- In Your 60s and Beyond: Address more pronounced facial aging with a comprehensive approach, often combining a full facelift with other treatments like a neck lift or brow lift.
Can I Finance My Facelift?
Yes, financing options are available to make facelift surgery more affordable. Bay Area Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center offers CareCredit®, a healthcare credit card specifically for medical expenses. CareCredit® allows you to spread the cost of your procedure into manageable monthly payments, often with low or no interest, depending on the plan you choose.
During your consultation, our team can help you explore financing options and guide you through the application process for CareCredit®.
Will a Facelift Affect My Smile or Facial Expressions?
A properly performed facelift should not interfere with your ability to smile, laugh, or show facial expressions. Dr. Serebrakian uses advanced surgical techniques that prioritize preserving the integrity of facial muscles and nerves. During your consultation, he will review the procedure details and reassure you that his goal is a natural look, free from the "pulled" appearance.
How Should I Sleep After Facelift Surgery?
Proper sleep positioning is essential for recovery after a facelift.
- Sleep with your head elevated using pillows or a wedge to minimize swelling and prevent strain on your incisions.
- Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach for at least two weeks to protect the surgical sites.
- A recliner can be helpful during the initial recovery phase.
What Happens if I Gain or Lose Weight After a Facelift?
Weight fluctuations can affect the results of your facelift by altering facial contours.
- Significant weight loss may lead to a gaunt appearance or sagging skin, but this is true before you’ve had a facelift as well.
- Weight gain can create new fat deposits, especially in the neck and jawline, which may reduce the definition your facelift created.
This is why we may suggest that you be at or near your ideal weight before undergoing a facelift. After your surgery, it’s equally important to maintain a stable weight to prolong your results.
Can I Combine a Facelift with Rhinoplasty or Chin Augmentation?
You may be able to combine a facelift with other procedures like a nose job or facial implants if you want full facial harmony. Rhinoplasty can refine your nose's shape and size, while chin or cheek augmentation can further balance your profile.
If you’re interested in adding another procedure, we can discuss this during your consultation.
Why Choose Bay Area Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center?
Since its founding in 1997, the Bay Area Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center (BALCSC) has had a reputation for exceptional service to patients seeking facelifts, tummy tucks, and other surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures.
Led by Dr. Armen Serebrakian, a board-certified surgeon by the American Academy of Otolaryngology, BALCSC offers a state-of-the-art, accredited, and Medicare-certified facility. This safe and freestanding center is conveniently located near Hwy 80 and easily accessible.
BALCSC caters to a diverse client base. The staff can communicate fluently in English, Spanish, French, Armenian, and Farsi. Trust us for high-quality care and a team committed to your satisfaction.
Schedule A Consultation
At Bay Area Cosmetic Laser Surgery Center, we look forward to helping you diminish the signs of aging and restore a youthful and rejuvenated appearance to your face. To schedule a consultation, please call our Pinole office at 510.724.8282 or our Larkspur office at 415.461.5755. Dr. Armen Serebrakian serves San Francisco, Larkspur, Pinole CA and surrounding areas.