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Facelift

In Scottsdale, AZ

The gold standard for facial rejuvenation procedures

What is Facelift Surgery?

A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the structures of the face to restore a more rejuvenated, rested appearance. Over time, gravity and natural volume loss cause the cheeks to descend, jowls to form along the jawline, and the neck to lose its definition. Creams, fillers, and lasers can improve the surface of the skin, but they can’t reposition the deeper tissue that has sagged. A facelift can.

Rather than simply pulling the skin tight, a modern facelift lifts the underlying muscle and connective tissue layer, called the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), and repositions it to a more youthful position. Excess skin is then trimmed and re-draped without tension. The result is a smoother, firmer, natural-looking face that still looks like you, only refreshed. At Arizona Oculoplastic Specialists, we offer several types of facelifts and tailor the surgical approach to your anatomy, the degree of sagging, and your goals.

Before And After

Specialized Facelift Techniques

No two faces age the same way, which is why there is no single “best” facelift. During your consultation, our surgeons will evaluate your skin quality, bone structure, and the areas that concern you most, then recommend the type of facelift that will give you the most natural, lasting result.

Extended Deep Plane Facelift

A deep plane facelift releases and lifts the skin and SMAS together as a single unit, working beneath the SMAS layer to free the ligaments that hold the cheeks and jowls down. Because the tissues are moved as one layer, there is very little tension on the skin, which helps produce a natural result without a pulled or windswept look. This technique is especially effective for patients with significant midface descent, deep nasolabial folds (laugh lines), and heavy jowls.

 

Mini Facelift

A mini facelift is ideal for patients who are starting to notice early of their midface and jawline, but don’t have any significant aging changes in the neck. It uses shorter incisions around the ear and focuses on tightening the mid and lower face. Because it is less extensive than a deep plane facelift, recovery is typically quicker.

Why Choose one of our Surgeons for Your Facelift? 

The face does not age in isolated sections. The eyelids, cheeks, and jawline are connected, and how they relate to one another determines whether a facelift looks natural. Dr. Ghafouri and Dr. Pratt are board-certified, fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeons whose practice is dedicated exclusively to cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids and face. That focused expertise on facial anatomy, especially the delicate transition between the lower eyelid and cheek, allows them to create harmonious, natural results. They have performed more than 50,000 aesthetic and reconstructive procedures and have been recognized as “top doctors” by their colleagues and multiple publications. 

Would You Benefit from a Facelift?

Men and women who are bothered by visible signs of facial aging and are in good overall health are often excellent candidates. There is no required age, but most facelift patients are between 40 and 70. You may be a good candidate if you have:

  • Sagging skin in the cheeks, jawline, or neck 
  • Jowls that blur the line of the jaw 
  • Deep nasolabial folds or marionette lines 
  • Loss of volume in the cheeks and midface 
  • Loose neck skin or visible neck bands 
  • Results from fillers or non-surgical treatments that no longer meet your goals 

Good candidates are non-smokers (or willing to stop for several weeks before and after surgery) and have realistic expectations. If you are not ready for surgery, alternatives such as CO2 laser skin resurfacing, dermal fillers, or may be options to discuss. 

Facelift Recovery and Results 

A facelift is a surgical procedure, and giving your body time to heal is important for the best result. Your recovery will depend on the type of facelift and whether other procedures are performed at the same time. A general timeline: 

  • First few days: Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal.  Pain medication is prescribed for any discomfort. Rest with your head elevated. 
  • 1-2 weeks: Sutures are typically removed, and much of the bruising begins to fade.Most patients return to work and light daily activities. Makeup can usually be used to cover any remaining bruising. 
  • 3-6 months: Residual swelling continues to resolve and incisions soften and fade, revealing your natural final result. 
  • 4 weeks and beyond: Strenuous exercise can usually resume around four-six weeks, with medical clearance. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Facelifts

Will the surgery leave a noticeable scar?

Facelift incisions are placed in the hairline, along the natural contour of the ear, and in the crease behind the ear, where they are well concealed. Because the deeper tissues carry the lift, the skin is closed without tension, helping incisions heal into fine lines that fade over several months.

Which type of facelift is right for me?

It depends on where you are seeing the most aging changes and how much laxity is present. Early jowling may be well suited to a mini facelift, while more advanced sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck usually calls for an extended deep plane facelift. Our doctors will recommend the right option after examining you in person or virtually.

How long do facelift results last?

A facelift turns back the clock, but it does not stop it. Your face will continue to age naturally, but from a more youthful starting point. You will continue to look younger than you would have without surgery. Protecting your skin from the sun, not smoking, and maintaining your skin with medical-grade skincare and other medspa rejuvenation treatments can help your results last. rnResults are typically long-lasting, for 15-20, before patients consider further surgical procedures. The rate of which any individual continues to age is multifactorial, and can depend on genetic factors, overall health, etc.

Is facelift painful?

You will not feel pain during surgery thanks to anesthesia. Afterward, most patients describe tightness and soreness more than significant pain, which is typically well controlled with prescribed medication and usually improves within the first several days.

Can I combine a facelift with eyelid surgery or other procedures?

Yes. A facelift is commonly combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), a brow lift, facial fat grafting, or laser resurfacing for a complete, balanced rejuvenation. Combining procedures means one recovery period instead of several.

I live out of town. Can I still have my facelift?

Absolutely, we see our patients from across the country. You can start with a virtual consultation, and our team can recommend nearby hotels and resources to make your stay in Scottsdale comfortable.

Procedures to Combine with a Facelift

Schedule a Facelift Consultation in Scottsdale 

If you are ready to restore a more youthful, refreshed look, contact Arizona Oculoplastic Specialists to schedule your facelift consultation with our office. Call 480-905-1010 or request a consultation online. We welcome patients from Scottsdale, Phoenix, and throughout Arizona, as well as out-of-town patients through our virtual consultations. 

Meet Dr. Ali Ghafouri

Dr. Ghafouri MD, FACS, is a board-certified ophthalmologist with specialized training in oculoplastic and orbital surgery. His exclusive specialization in cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid and facial surgery sets him apart from other plastic surgeons who practice a larger range of facial and body surgeries. The eyes are a complex and dynamic structure that requires the trained eye of an eyelid surgeon like Dr. Ghafouri to achieve the best possible results. He has performed over 12,000 aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries, each with a personalized approach and commitment to exceptional results.

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SEE OUR PATIENTS’

REVIEWS

“A wonderful practice full of caring practitioners. Dr. Ghafouri was patient in answering all of my questions and concerns. And the results speak for themselves.”

“I give Dr. Ghafouri the highest rankings in all categories! He is kind, patient, compassionate and above all, a brilliant surgeon! I wish he could be my doctor for everything medical! Thank you Dr. Ghafouri! I have also used Kyle for injections and she is patient kind and so knowledgeable! Made the experience painless and comfortable!!!! Truly a wonderful office with a sweet staff all around!”

“It’s not too often that you find an office where you are impressed not only with the doctor, but also the staff. Dr. Ghafouri is professional and honest and doesn’t try to upsell procedures if he doesn’t think they’re the best option. The aesthetician in his office (Kim) is wonderful. I never feel rushed and she always encourages questions. I’d highly recommend this office to anyone looking for expert and attentive care.”

OUT OF TOWN?

9431 E. IRONWOOD SQUARE DR., SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85258

Dr. Ghafouri offers virtual consultations for out-of-town patients. We see patients from all across the country who trust Dr. Ghafouri’s unique skills and expertise for their facial or eyelid surgeries. If you choose to travel to Arizona for your surgery, we can also recommend hotels and other resources to make your stay comfortable.

To schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Ghafouri Click here.

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What procedure are you interested in?

What procedure are you interested in?