Will it be obvious that I had a facelift?

Published January 25, 2024 by Dr. Mark Mandell-Brown

So you’re considering a facelift, but are concerned whether the results will truly look natural. The fear of an “overdone” appearance is legitimate, as we have all seen public figures whose faces show obvious signs of plastic surgery. But with advancements in surgical techniques and the expertise of a facelift specialist, subtle and natural-looking results are more attainable than ever. 

Dr. Mark Mandell-Brown strives for a natural appearance without the “overdone” look. Each surgeon will have their own aesthetic sensibility, as well, and a high-quality result will appear somewhat different from surgeon to surgeon. Here, we explain what you need to know to get a natural-looking facelift.

Advanced techniques for Natural Look™ cosmetic surgery results

Plastic surgery is constantly improving, as our thriving field is full of innovative surgeons seeking ways to better provide the results patients are looking for. A key advancement in facelift technique over the past several decades is the focus on the SMAS layer of the face, or the superficial musculoaponeurotic system. By targeting this layer, we can provide you with a natural, youthful look without an overtightened appearance.

Older techniques created a “windswept” look by simply stretching the skin. Today, surgeons use a variety of techniques, with an even more confusing number of names for their facelift procedure. Whether they call it the “weekend lift,” the “SMAS lift,” the “deep plane facelift,” or something else, they all include (to varying degrees) skin tightening, muscle tightening, liposuction, and/or fat transfer. Additionally, some people may need cheek lifting, neck lifting, or a combination. 

Our unique, custom approach distinguishes our practice from other surgeons. Some only use deep plane facelift exclusively, as it’s popular, but we approach each patient, and their concerns, individually.

• Learn about some of the facelift varieties we offer, including traditional facelift (rhytidectomy) », mid facelift », and quick facelift »

Realistic expectations post-facelift

Most people say that a facelift can make you look about ten years younger. While we can’t guarantee that you will look exactly how you looked ten years ago, this rule is a helpful gauge of the refreshed appearance you can expect after surgery.

Understand that a facelift doesn’t stop the aging process; you will still need to practice good skin care habits and potentially visit us for touch-up treatments like laser skin resurfacing or Botox® from time to time. A facelift does, however, reset your aging trajectory, allowing you to age more gracefully from a rejuvenated baseline. 

A natural appearance after surgery depends on your surgeon’s technique, so avoid “budget” plastic surgery clinics.

Finally, understand that a facelift doesn’t treat all fine lines or a crepe-like skin texture, nor does it add facial volume. If you would like to see these results from your facelift, then be sure to discuss adjunctive procedures like laser skin resurfacing or facial fat transfer with Dr. Mandell-Brown or Dr. Maccarone in your consultation.

Surgeon expertise is crucial

Above all, the expertise of your surgeon will influence a natural-looking facelift result. Look for credentials, training, and exceptional before-and-after photos when choosing a surgeon for a facelift. 

Dr. Mark Mandell-Brown has edited four medical textbooks and published over a dozen medical articles as well as several facelift textbook chapters for plastic surgeons, including the “Face lift” chapter in Operative Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery.

Our triple board-certified surgeons’ understanding of facial anatomy, coupled with their artistic sensibility, allows them to tailor facelifts to each individual’s unique facial structure, providing results that are not only youthful but also harmonious with your natural features. You may look through our facelift before and after gallery to see the results we have achieved for our previous patients.

Aesthetic trends change, but Springboro and Cincinnati cosmetic surgeon Dr. Mark Mandell-Brown, along with triple board certified surgeon Dr. Gina Maccarone, remain committed to natural-looking, durable facelift results. Whether you’re considering a full or mid-facelift, or have questions about anesthesia, we’re here to discuss your options when you are ready. Contact us for a personal consultation by calling 513-984-4700 or filling out the form below.