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- Face Procedures
- Rhytidectomy
- Neck Lift
- Wave Lift TM
- Cure Lift S TM
- Cure Lift XL TM
- Endoscopic Lift
- Mini Facelift
- SMAS Face & Neck Lift
- Thread Lift
- New Lift
- Flash Lift
- Face Tite
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- Face Contouring
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- Facial Feminization
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- Precision Lift
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Content Navigator
- 1. What is a Facelift?
- 2. Before & After Gallery
- 3. WAVE Facelift Difference
- 4. Testimonials
- 5. Our Approach
- 6. Consultation
- 7. Benefits of Facelifts
- 8. Who Is A Candidate?
- 9. Types of Facelifts
- 10. How Is A Facelift Performed?
- 11. Recovery
- 12. Your Consultation
- 13. Testimonials
- 14. FAQs
- 15. References
- 16. Our Facelift Specialists
Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
Conveniently located in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco.
Aging is a natural process, but loss of skin elasticity, deep wrinkles, and sagging can make you feel less like yourself. A facelift remains one of the most effective and lasting ways to reverse these signs of aging, restoring a refreshed, youthful appearance while preserving your natural beauty.
At Wave Plastic Surgery, our expert surgeons use advanced techniques to create subtle, natural-looking results—never overdone. Whether you’re looking for a refined lift or a dramatic transformation, our customized approach ensures a more youthful, confident you.
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What Is a Facelift?
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that lifts and tightens sagging facial skin, smooths deep creases, and enhances jawline definition. By repositioning the skin and underlying tissue, a facelift can provide long-lasting rejuvenation for the lower two-thirds of the face and neck.
At Wave Plastic Surgery, we offer a range of facelift techniques, from mini facelifts to full SMAS facelifts, ensuring a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
- Minimally invasive options available
- Hidden incision techniques for minimal scarring
- Combining facelifts with non-surgical treatments for enhanced results
The Wave Plastic Surgery Facelift Difference
- Globally Renowned Anti-Aging Experts – Wave Plastic Surgery is one of the largest plastic surgery practices in the U.S. specializing in facial rejuvenation and anti-aging procedures. Our surgeons are recognized for their innovative techniques and outstanding patient outcomes.
- Exclusive Facelift Techniques – We offer proprietary facelift procedures, including the Wave Lift™, Cure Lift S™, and Cure Lift XL™, designed for natural results, shorter recovery times, and minimal scarring.
- Board-Certified, Highly Experienced Surgeons – Our team of globally trained, board-certified plastic surgeons has decades of experience performing complex facelift procedures with precision and care.
- State-of-the-Art, AAAHC-Accredited Facility – We operate in a luxurious, fully accredited surgical center using the latest advancements in plastic surgery and aesthetic technology to ensure optimal safety and results.
- Personalized Treatment Plans for Every Patient – No two faces are the same, so every facelift at Wave Plastic Surgery is fully customized to complement your unique facial structure, skin quality, and aesthetic goals.
- Recognized Leaders in the Industry – Our surgeons and practice have been featured in Newsweek, Teen Vogue, People Magazine, The Washington Post, Hollywood Life, and NewBeauty, and our expertise is sought after worldwide.
- Minimal Scarring & Faster Recovery—We use advanced hidden incision techniques, innovative suturing methods, and cutting-edge technology to minimize visible scarring and speed up the healing process.
What Makes Wave’s Approach Different?
At Wave Plastic Surgery, our doctors approach each facelift with precision and individualized care. Unlike other practices, we customize each facelift to meet the unique needs, goals, and expectations of every patient. Our surgeons take the time to understand your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan designed to achieve the best possible results.
Our top-rated facelifts are highly customizable, addressing key signs of aging such as loose skin, deep wrinkles, and loss of firmness in the face. Using advanced techniques, we can enhance facial contours, redefine the jawline, and create a smoother, more youthful appearance. The results are long-lasting and natural-looking, ensuring that your enhanced features still feel like you.
Choosing Wave Plastic Surgery means choosing expert care, personalized attention, and results that will leave you feeling more confident and rejuvenated. Give us a call today!
There are numerous details and techniques that we adhere to when performing a facelift in order to ensure beautiful results. These are some of the examples that we consider with all of our facelift patients:
- There are three separate compartments where the orbital fat resides. As we age, the tissues holding the orbital fat become attenuated and as a result, the fat becomes more visible as it protrudes out more. Depending on the severity and whether there is a depression in the lower portion of the lower lid rim, each individual’s treatment will be different.
- If excess fat is the only issue, we can remove it using a transconjunctival approach (inside the eyelid). This prevents unnecessary external scars, and there is less of a chance of disrupting the tissues that can cause evertion of the lower eyelid. The removal of the fat must be conservative to prevent unwanted hollowing.
- If the fat is not too significant, but does exist, the tissues holding the orbital fat can be simply tightened. This is called a septal reset. If there is hollowness in the lower lid rim, called a tear trough, the fat can be mobilized and repositioned to the bony rim margin. This helps with the removal of the protruding fat as well as filling in the defect of the tear trough.
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.
Benefits of a Facelift Procedure
A facelift is one of the most effective ways to reverse the signs of aging and restore a naturally youthful appearance. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we use advanced techniques to target specific aging concerns, delivering natural, long-lasting results without looking artificial. A facelift can help if you’re struggling with:
- Loose, sagging skin that makes you look older than you feel – Over time, skin loses its elasticity, leading to drooping around the cheeks, jawline, and neck.
- Jowls that blur your jawline – When facial tissues descend, it can cause a heavy, undefined jawline and sagging along the lower face.
- Deep creases and folds that make you look tired or angry – Lines around the mouth (nasolabial folds), marionette lines, and forehead wrinkles can create a permanently fatigued or stern expression.
- Hollow cheeks and lost facial volume – Aging can cause fat loss in the midface, making the face look sunken or gaunt.
- Excess skin and banding on the neck – Loose skin and muscle laxity can lead to a “turkey neck” appearance, adding years to your profile.
- A general loss of youthful definition – Skin laxity, volume loss, and deep wrinkles can cause an overall aged or worn-down look.
Looking to Get Rid of a Double Chin?
A facelift can dramatically reduce the appearance of a double chin by tightening loose skin and redefining the jawline. But it’s not the only option. Whether you’re exploring surgical or non-surgical treatments, we’ve created a full guide to help you understand your options.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Facelift?
A facelift is ideal for men and women who want to reverse the visible effects of aging and achieve natural, long-lasting rejuvenation. You may be a great candidate if you:
- Have loose, sagging skin around the face, jawline, and neck
- Have deep wrinkles, folds, or jowls
- Want long-lasting results beyond what fillers or injectables can provide
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
- Are a non-smoker or willing to quit for optimal healing
Not sure if a facelift is right for you? Book a consultation with our specialists!
Types of Facelifts at Wave Plastic Surgery
At Wave Plastic Surgery, we offer a variety of facelift techniques, each tailored to meet different levels of aging anxiousness and facial structures.
Wave Lift™ (Revolutionary Mini Facelift)
See more on our Before & After gallery!
The Wave Lift™ is a minimally invasive procedure targeting early signs of aging, such as mild to moderate sagging in the lower face and neck. Utilizing small incisions placed discreetly around the ears, this technique lifts and tightens facial contours, resulting in a rejuvenated appearance with minimal downtime. Ideal for individuals in their 30s to 50s seeking subtle enhancements without undergoing a full facelift, the Wave Lift™ offers natural-looking results with a typical recovery period of about one week.
Cure Lift S™ (Minimally-Invasive Mini Facelift)
Developed by our own Dr. Ben Lee, the CureLift S™ combines the age-reversing effects of a SMAS Facelift with the quick recovery of a Mini Facelift. This minimally-invasive procedure restores facial features to a more youthful position, offering natural-looking results with minimal bruising and swelling. It is exclusively available at Wave Plastic Surgery and is a highly effective alternative to traditional facelifts.
See more on our Before & After gallery!
CureLift XL™ (Advanced Face and Neck Lift)
The CureLift™ is an innovative procedure developed to provide comprehensive rejuvenation of both the face and neck. Performed under local anesthesia, it involves repositioning deeper facial structures to their youthful positions, effectively addressing moderate to severe sagging, deep wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity. This approach tightens the skin and enhances the underlying musculature, offering long-lasting, natural results. Patients often appreciate the reduced recovery time and minimal scarring associated with the CureLift™, making it a preferred alternative to traditional facelifts.
High SMAS Face & Neck Lift
The High SMAS Face and neck Lift is ideal for individuals in their 40s to 70s experiencing moderate to severe facial and neck sagging. Unlike traditional facelifts, which focus only on skin tightening, this advanced procedure lifts and repositions the SMAS layer (the underlying facial support structure), restoring cheek volume, jawline definition, and a firmer neck contour. With hidden incisions along the hairline and ears, this technique ensures long-lasting, natural-looking results. Recovery typically lasts two to three weeks, with results lasting 10+ years.
Endoscopic Facelift
The Endoscopic Facelift is a minimally invasive technique that targets early to moderate signs of aging in the upper and mid-face. Using a tiny camera (endoscope), the procedure lifts drooping brows, restores cheek volume, and smooths deep folds through small, hidden incisions in the hairline. With minimal scarring and a quick recovery (1-2 weeks), this facelift is ideal for those in their 30s to 50s seeking subtle yet noticeable anti-aging benefits.
The Endoscopic Mid-Facelift is designed for individuals in their 30s to 60s who experience hollowing under the eyes, sagging cheeks, or deepening nasolabial folds. This minimally invasive procedure restores lost volume and lifts the mid-face using small incisions hidden within the hairline. Repositioning fat pads and tightening underlying tissues creates a more youthful, lifted appearance without needing a full facelift. With minimal scarring and a faster recovery, this technique offers natural, long-lasting rejuvenation for those seeking subtle yet noticeable enhancements.
How a Facelift Is Performed
At Wave Plastic Surgery, our experienced surgeons perform facelifts with precision to achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results. Incisions are carefully placed behind the ears and within natural creases to remain discreet. The underlying muscles are tightened to restore youthful facial structure, preventing sagging and ensuring a more defined appearance.
Excess skin is gently removed and repositioned for a smooth, refreshed look without creating an artificial or overly tight effect. Finally, advanced suturing techniques promote optimal healing and minimal scarring, ensuring a seamless, natural finish.
Facelift Recovery & What to Expect
Recovery time varies based on the type of facelift performed, but most patients experience a gradual improvement in swelling, bruising, and overall appearance over several weeks. While individual healing times may differ, the general timeline is as follows:
Days 1-7: Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are expected but can be managed with prescribed medication. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling.
Week 2: Stitches are typically removed, and bruising begins to fade. Most patients feel comfortable going out in public with minimal makeup to conceal any remaining discoloration.
Weeks 3-4: Most swelling has subsided, and results become more noticeable. Most patients can resume normal daily activities, though strenuous exercise should still be avoided.
Months 3-6: The final results of your facelift emerge as residual swelling disappears, revealing a smoother, more youthful appearance with natural-looking contours.
Proper aftercare, including avoiding sun exposure, following post-operative instructions, and maintaining a healthy skincare routine, can optimize your results and promote long-lasting rejuvenation.
Your Personalized Facelift Consultation
Choosing Wave Plastic Surgery means working with top-tier facelift specialists who prioritize your unique needs and natural beauty. During this one-on-one appointment, our expert facelift specialists will assess your facial structure, skin elasticity, and overall goals to determine the best approach for your facelift procedure.
We will review your medical history, discuss your desired outcome, and walk you through before-and-after photos of similar cases to help set realistic expectations. Our team will also explain the procedure, recovery process, and any potential risks so you can make a fully informed decision. By the end of your consultation, you will receive a customized facelift plan designed specifically for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About FaceLifts
Will my facelift results look natural?
Yes! At Wave Plastic Surgery, our board-certified surgeons specialize in achieving subtle, natural-looking rejuvenation. We focus on lifting and restoring facial structure, not pulling or over-tightening the skin. The result is a refreshed, youthful appearance that still looks like you.
How long do facelift results last?
A well-performed facelift can provide long-lasting results for 10+ years, depending on genetics, lifestyle, and skincare factors. While a facelift can turn back the clock, the natural aging process will continue. Maintaining good skin health, avoiding sun damage, and following a proper skincare regimen can help extend the longevity of your results.
What is a Facelift?
How long does Facelift Surgery take?
The average duration of Facelift Surgery is 2 to 4 hours. Facelifts typically last a couple of hours but can be longer or shorter depending on specific circumstances.
Will there be visible scarring?
What is the recovery time for a facelift?
Most patients can return to light daily activities within two weeks and see final results within three to six months as the swelling fully resolves. The exact timeline depends on the type of facelift performed and your body’s healing process. We provide detailed post-operative instructions to help you recover quickly and comfortably.
When can I return to work after a Facelift?
Thanks to our plastic surgery facelift specialists’ expertise, most patients can return to work 2 weeks after a Facelift Surgery.
How do you know if you need a facelift?
You may need a facelift if you are not pleased with the signs of aging on your face and you are otherwise in good health. If you are bothered by sagging, excess skin in the face, and neck you may want to consult a plastic surgeon.
What's the best age for a Facelift?
The average facelift patients are in their 40’s and 50’s. However, some people opt to get Facelift surgery in their mid 30’s. A facelift can be successfully performed on a person in their 80’s if they are in good health.
How much younger will I look with a Facelift?
Facelifts can improve your face’s appearance by smoothing wrinkles and age lines. They can also help get rid of sagging skin and settled fat deposits. However, results vary depending on bone structure, genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle choices. All of these factors determine how much younger someone will look after a Facelift.
Do Facelifts make you face look pulled back?
Facelifts remove excess fat and tighten muscles in the lower portion of the face and neck. When performed by an experienced Plastic Surgeon, the result will look natural. Facelifts are not designed to pull the skin so tight that they cause the corners of your mouth to spread.
Can a Facelift help with the lines around my eyes and forehead?
Facelifts don’t alter the appearance of the upper third of the face. They can’t smooth excess skin and wrinkles around the eyes or lift a sagging brow. A brow lift or eyelid surgery can treat these issues and give you the appearance that you want.
How soon can I exercise after a Facelift?
Most patients can resume exercise three weeks after a Facelift.
How much does a facelift cost?
Am I a good candidate for a facelift?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have loose, sagging skin on the face or neck
- Experience deep folds, jowls, or loss of facial definition
- Want long-lasting results beyond what fillers can provide
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
If you’re unsure whether a facelift is right for you, our team can evaluate your needs during a personalized consultation.
What’s the difference between a mini facelift and a full facelift?
A mini facelift (Wave Lift™) is ideal for mild to moderate sagging and focuses on the lower face and jawline with smaller incisions and a quicker recovery time. A full facelift (Cure Lift XL™) addresses moderate to severe signs of facial and neck aging, providing more dramatic and long-lasting results.
Can a facelift be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Many patients choose to enhance their facelift results by combining it with complementary treatments such as:
- Neck Lift – To tighten loose skin and improve definition along the jawline.
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) – To refresh tired-looking eyes.
- Fat Grafting or Dermal Fillers – To restore lost volume in the cheeks and under-eye area.
- Laser Skin Resurfacing – To improve skin tone, texture, and elasticity.
What should I expect from my consultation?
During your consultation at Wave Plastic Surgery, our expert surgeons will:
- Assess your facial structure, skin laxity, and aesthetic goals
- Review your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate
- Discuss your facelift options and show before-and-after photos
- Explain the procedure, recovery process, and expected results
- Create a fully customized treatment plan tailored to your needs
Give us a call today to schedule your Facelift consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. Wave Plastic Surgery offers expert facelift consultations in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco.
Get Your Consultation Today
Give us a call today to schedule your consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.
Our Satisfied Customer Testimonials
References
- Caplin, D. A., & Perlyn, C. A. (2010). Facelifts: a contemporary perspective. Missouri medicine, 107(3), 195–197.
- Ahmed M Hashem, Rafael A Couto, Chris Surek, Marco Swanson, James E Zins, Facelift Part II: Surgical Techniques and Complications, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 41, Issue 10, October 2021, Pages NP1276–NP1294, https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjab081
- Yang AJ, Hohman MH. Rhytidectomy. [Updated 2023 Mar 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564338/
Our Face Lift Specialists
Peter Lee
M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Peter is CEO and Chief Surgeon of WAVE Plastic Surgery Center with over 20 years of plastic surgery experience, overlooking 30K+ successful plastic surgery cases. He has mentored master surgeons around the world in state-of-the-art techniques, and has been inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame.
His many accolades and shining results are evidence of Peter’s expertise.
Ben Lee
M.D., F.A.C.S.
Throughout 20+ years in aesthetic plastic surgery, Dr. Ben Lee has always been passionate about using his skills to impart a lasting, positive impact on the lives of his patients.
“Time and time again, I have witnessed dramatic improvements in a patient’s confidence and well-being after a relatively minor cosmetic or reconstructive procedure. As a surgeon, that brings me great joy.” — Dr. Ben Lee
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Medically Reviewed By Dr. Ben Lee
Proudly using his creativity to help patients regain a sense of wholeness and confidence, Dr. Ben Lee takes a very patient-centered approach to care.
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