Facelift

A facelift is a common cosmetic procedure designed to restore a more youthful appearance by improving sagging skin in the face and neck. It can help redefine the jawline, reduce jowls and create a smoother, more refreshed look. 

At North Mississippi Health Services, facelift procedures are carefully tailored to each patient, focusing on natural-looking results and safe, supportive care at every step.

What is a facelift?

A facelift improves visible signs of aging by tightening underlying facial muscles and removing excess skin. This helps restore definition to the midface, jawline and neck. 

It’s important to know that a facelift does not treat all signs of aging. Concerns like wrinkles around the eyes or forehead may require additional procedures such as a brow lift or eyelid surgery. 

How the Procedure Works

Dr. Googe performs a facelift technique known as SMAS plication. This approach tightens the deeper facial muscles while removing excess skin to create a smoother, more natural contour. 

Additional treatments may be combined with a facelift, including:

• Fat grafting to restore lost facial volume
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to support healing and reduce bruising

Facelifts may be performed as:

• Mini facelift: shorter incision, often done with local anesthesia
• Full facelift: performed under general anesthesia in a surgery center 

Who may benefit from a facelift?

A facelift may be right for you if you:

• Notice sagging skin in the midface
• Have jowls or loss of jawline definition
• Experience loose skin in the neck area
• Want a more refreshed, natural appearance

A consultation with your surgeon is the best way to determine the right approach for your goals.

What to Expect During Surgery

The Procedure

Facelift surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you return home the same day. Surgery usually takes four to six hours depending on whether additional procedures are included. 

Incisions & Technique

Incisions are placed carefully in front of and behind the ears and may extend into the hairline. A small incision under the chin may also be used to improve the neck contour. 

Recovery & Healing

Right After Surgery

• A head wrap and surgical drain are placed temporarily
• The drain is usually removed the day after surgery at your first follow-up visit
• Swelling may increase for the first few days, then gradually improve 

Returning to Daily Life

• Plan for two to four weeks away from work depending on your job
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for about six weeks
• Walking is encouraged to support healing
• Final results are typically visible over several months

Risks and Safety Considerations

All surgical procedures carry some risk. Risks associated with facelift surgery may include:

• Bleeding or hematoma
• Nerve injury affecting movement or sensation
• Scarring
• Infection
• Asymmetry
• Anesthesia-related risks such as blood clots

Your care team will take steps to reduce risk and ensure your safety before, during and after surgery.

Preparing for Surgery

Smoking and Nicotine Use

Nicotine reduces blood flow and can affect healing. Patients must stop smoking and avoid nicotine products at least four weeks before and after surgery. 

Managing Health Conditions

Blood pressure should be well controlled before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding complications. 

Your surgeon will provide personalized instructions to help you prepare.

Follow-Up and Ongoing Care

You will have scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing and remove dressings or drains as needed. Your care team will provide detailed instructions for recovery and when to contact the clinic with concerns.