How to Know if You’re a Good Candidate for a Facelift

Facelifts and neck lifts are some of the most common forms of plastic surgery we perform at Southern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgical Institute (SPRSI), so we know what makes a good facelift candidate. If you think you would benefit from this procedure, learn more about our ideal candidates and what you can do to prepare before you schedule a consultation. 

What Does a Facelift Do?

A facelift addresses visible signs of aging around the mid-to-lower face, including the cheek, mouth, and jaw. Also known as a rhytidectomy, it targets the muscles in these areas to firm them up and removes extra sagging skin. Signs you may need a facelift include the appearance of:

• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Heavy jowls
• Double chins

Who Is a Candidate for Facelift Surgery?

There is no one circumstance that makes someone the ideal facelift candidate, but in general, participants should:

• Be healthy: You don’t have to be the healthiest person in the world, but any medical condition that can impair healing can extend the recovery timeline and put you at a higher risk for infection and complications.
• Not smoke: Smoking can deepen the wrinkles you’re trying to get rid of. Furthermore, the presence of nicotine and tobacco in the body can impact the healing process.
• Be realistic: No facelift will make you look like you’re 20 again, but the effects can make you look and feel younger. Your doctor will give you a decent idea of what you can expect from a facelift, and the best candidates are ones who keep a positive outlook throughout the process.

While these general guidelines can give you an overview of the best potential candidates, every patient is unique in their goals and expectations. The best way to know if you would benefit from a rhytidectomy is to speak with a plastic surgeon directly so they can evaluate your history and recommend solutions personalized to your needs.

The Ideal Age for a Facelift

Facelift candidacy is at its peak when patients are between the ages of 40 and 60. This is around the time your skin starts noticeably losing elasticity, but still retains enough to facilitate healing and natural-looking results. That being said, if you are a little younger or older, you can still be a good candidate for a facelift, depending on other health factors.

Schedule a Consultation with SPRSI

At SPRSI, our board-certified professionals and their teams are committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals. If you think a facelift would give you confidence in your appearance, we want to make it happen through personalized, compassionate care. Schedule a consultation today and let’s address your concerns now.