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Close-up portrait of beautiful woman with arrows on her face.

How Much Does a Facelift Cost? The Importance of Quality and Long-Lasting Results

Facelifts, also known as rhytidectomies, are a popular cosmetic procedure that helps individuals reduce visible signs of aging, resulting in a more youthful appearance. If you’re considering a facelift, one of the first questions likely on your mind is the cost.

In this article, we’ll break down the factors that affect the price of a facelift, provide a national average cost, and discuss other important considerations. Whether you’re looking to combine a facelift with another procedure or explore different forms of facial plastic surgery, it’s essential to understand the associated costs, facelift techniques, and expected recovery time.

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Facelifts: Can cost between $7,500 and $25,000 or more, depending on the surgeon’s skill and the procedure’s complexity. Facelifts are often not covered by insurance.

Wavelift client, Jackie_Nguyen

Mini facelifts: Can cost between $5,000–$8,000, but the actual cost may vary depending on the patient’s needs. Additional procedures, like liposuction or skin resurfacing, may also increase the cost.

Factors Influencing Facelift Costs

When considering a facelift, it’s essential to understand that the overall cost can vary significantly based on several key factors. These factors affect not only the price of the procedure but also the quality of care, the expertise of the surgeon, and the expected outcomes. By being informed about what influences the price, you can better prepare and plan for your procedure, ensuring you get the desired results within your budget.

Below are the main factors contributing to a facelift’s total cost.

1. Location of The Procedure

Cosmetic surgery costs often reflect the regional demand and the cost of living in the area. Major cities, particularly those known for their medical expertise and premium healthcare services (like Los Angeles, San Fransisco, or New York), will typically have higher prices. On the other hand, smaller cities or areas with fewer cosmetic surgery clinics may offer more affordable options.

2. Surgeon's Expertise and Credentials

The surgeon’s experience and reputation significantly impact the cost. Board-certified plastic surgeons with a proven track record often charge more, but their expertise usually translates to better outcomes. 

Surgeon’s fees can vary, but investing in a reputable, highly-skilled surgeon is crucial for achieving the best results. At Wave Plastic Surgery, for instance, we take pride in offering top-tier care with highly experienced surgeons, ensuring your procedure meets the highest standards of safety and results.

3. Type and Complexity of the Procedure

Facelifts come in various types depending on the extent of aging and the areas to be treated. Below are some common types and their associated costs:

  • Mini Facelift: A mini facelift targets sagging in the lower face and neck and is less invasive. Costs typically range from $5,000 to $8,000.
  • Full Facelift: A traditional full facelift addresses wrinkles and sagging skin on the face and neck. Due to its comprehensive nature, the price is higher, usually falling between $10,000 and $15,000.
  • Mid-Facelift: Focused on the cheek and upper jaw area, this procedure costs between $7,000 and $12,000.

Again, these figures typically reflect the base fee and do not include additional costs related to surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, and post-operative care. 

The complexity of the procedure, such as whether additional treatments like liposuction (for fat removal) or dermal fillers are required, also impacts the final price. Many patients also consider combining facelifts with blepharoplasty or rhinoplasty to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

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Additional Costs To Consider

While the facelift price covers the surgery itself, it’s essential to consider other related costs that can increase the overall investment:

1. Anesthesia Fees

Facelifts are typically performed under general anesthesia, which ensures that the patient remains comfortable and unaware during the surgery. Anesthesia fees can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the type and duration of the procedure.

2. Surgical Facility and Operating Room Fees

Some surgeons perform facelift procedures in a hospital, while others offer the procedure in an accredited outpatient facility or their own clinic. Operating room costs and surgical facility fees can add an additional $500 to $2,000 to your total, depending on the location and setup.

3. Pre- and Post-Surgery Costs

  • Pre-surgery consultations: These may involve lab tests, health checks, or imaging (like 3D imaging technology, offered at Wave Plastic Surgery) to determine your candidacy.
  • Post-surgery care: This includes medications, follow-up appointments, and sometimes compression garments to aid healing.

During your consultation, your surgeon will also explain where the incisions will be made to ensure minimal scarring and optimal results.

Financing Options for Facelift Surgery

PatientFi offers a patient-friendly financing solution that removes the cost barrier, replacing it with an affordable monthly plan.

  • No Impact on Credit Score: Checking if you qualify won’t hurt your credit score since PatientFi only performs a soft credit check.
  • Quick and Easy Application: Applying takes just one minute, and you can get approved instantly.
  • Flexible Monthly Payments: PatientFi offers wallet-friendly monthly payment plans, so you can get the procedure you want now and pay over time.

Additionally, PatientFi allows someone else, like a legally married spouse or a parent, to apply on your behalf.

To apply, simply visit our customized Wave Plastic Surgery application page for PatientFi.

It’s important to explore all options before committing to a facelift. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we are committed to helping you find a payment plan that works for your financial needs, ensuring your journey toward a more youthful appearance is as stress-free as possible.

Is a Facelift Worth the Investment?

A facelift is more than just a cosmetic procedure—it’s an investment in your confidence and well-being. The long-lasting results of a successful facelift can make the cost worthwhile. According to patient reviews and satisfaction rates, many individuals report feeling more youthful, refreshed, and self-assured after surgery. With experienced professionals and a state-of-the-art facility, Wave Plastic Surgery ensures that every step of the process, from consultation to post-operative care, is personalized and high-quality.

What Are the Differences Between Mini Facelifts, Endoscopic Facelifts, Extended SMAS Facelifts, and Traditional Facelifts?

Wave Plastic Surgery Facelift Procedure Before and After results

A mini facelift, an endoscopic facelift, and a traditional facelift are all procedures aimed at reducing signs of aging. Still, they vary in their methods and the extent of change they provide.

    • A mini facelift targets the lower part of the face, particularly the jawline and neck. It involves smaller incisions and is less invasive than a full facelift, making it suitable for those with less noticeable signs of aging.
    • An endoscopic facelift uses small incisions and an endoscope (a small camera device) to perform the surgery. This approach often leads to more minor scars, less swelling, and a quicker recovery. It’s typically used for upper and middle facelifts to address issues like sagging brows or cheeks. Wave Plastic Surgery is the sole provider of the famous Wave Lift™, a minimally-invasive procedure that doesn’t require sutures and only has a recovery period of one week. The procedure is typically performed within an hour under local anesthesia and provides results for up to five years! 
    • A traditional facelift involves more extensive work and provides the most comprehensive results. It can address deep wrinkles, significant sagging skin, and other advanced signs of aging in the lower two-thirds of the face and the neck.
    • An extended SMAS facelift is a surgical procedure that involves lifting and tightening the deeper tissues of the face, specifically the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS), to achieve more comprehensive and longer-lasting results compared to traditional facelifts. It addresses sagging skin and muscle laxity, providing a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. 


    How do I Choose the Right Surgeon for my Facelift Procedure?

    Choosing the right surgeon for your facelift is an integral part of the process, and it’s why many individuals opt for Wave Plastic Surgery. When making this crucial decision, consider the surgeon’s credentials, years of experience, specializations, and track record of successful outcomes. 

    It’s also beneficial to look at before and after photos of their previous patients and read patient reviews. Wave Plastic Surgery’s surgeons are all board-certified and uphold the highest standards of patient care. They prioritize your comfort and confidence in their care, offering a wide range of facial rejuvenation procedures tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

    Investing in Your Confidence with Wave Plastic Surgery

    Surmising how much does a facelift cost is more than just calculating a dollar amount—it needs to account for the improvement in your self-confidence, appearance, and overall satisfaction. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we understand the importance of quality when making a significant personal decision. We are committed to offering top-tier surgical expertise and state-of-the-art technology to ensure the best results for our patients.

    The price tag might be higher, but the payoff of a lasting, natural-looking facelift performed by highly skilled professionals is priceless.

    Contact us at Wave Plastic Surgery if you’re considering a facelift surgery and want to invest in the best. We’re here to guide you every step of the way toward a rejuvenated you.

    Get Your Facelift Consultation Today

    Give us a call today to schedule your Facelift consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.

    Facelift Surgery FAQs

    Typically, insurance does not cover cosmetic surgery since it is considered elective. However, some insurance policies may cover part of the cost if a facelift is performed as part of reconstructive surgery after an accident or due to medical reasons. Be sure to consult with your insurance provider.

    During a facelift procedure, a surgeon will make incisions around your hairline, extending down around the contours of your ear and potentially into the lower scalp. They will then reposition the underlying tissues and remove excess skin to achieve a more youthful appearance. The exact process can vary depending on the facelift type and the individual’s facial structure.

    The results of a facelift can last between 8 to 15 years, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and the quality of aftercare. While this is a significant investment, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial cost.

    Post-surgical care after a facelift typically involves keeping the incisions clean and using prescribed medication to manage discomfort. It is recommended to rest and limit activity for a while. Your surgeon may also recommend wearing a compression garment. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are crucial to monitor your healing and progress.

    Yes! Many patients combine a facelift with other facial plastic surgery procedures such as blepharoplasty or rhinoplasty or opt for non-invasive treatments like dermal fillers and injectables to enhance their overall look. This can increase the overall cost and save on individual procedure costs when bundled.

    1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.). How much does a facelift cost? Plastic Surgery. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/facelift/cost
    2. Patel, P. D., Rodriguez, R. L., Sharma, S., & Chen, L. (2020). Trends in Facelift Surgery: A 10-Year Review. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 41(9), 987-994. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjaa095
    Picture of Ben Lee

    Ben Lee

    Dr. Lee received his bachelor’s degree in molecular and cellular biology with highest honors from the University of Colorado in Boulder. He went on to earn his M.D. with highest honors from the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver, followed by his MBA from the University of Colorado Denver. He completed his surgical internship at the University of California at San Francisco. Going on to train in otolaryngology/head & neck surgery at Duke University Medical Center, working closely with the plastic surgeons during his head and neck residency inspired him to continue training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. After this specialized training, Dr. Lee went on to become Board Certified in Plastic Surgery.

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    With a wide range of breast, body, and face procedures, our goal at Wave Plastic Surgery is to allow for all of our patients to achieve their ideal appearance, no matter their age or ethnicity. Our doctors all have extensive experience working with patients of all different backgrounds and have developed expertise in Asian plastic surgery procedures such as eyelid and nose surgery. We work with all sorts of men and women—both local to the Los Angeles area and from far out of town—to help find the right procedure to help them reach their goals.

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