Facelifts (Rhytidectomy)
Globally Renowned Anti-Aging Experts
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Related Procedures
- 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
- Fat Transfer
- Double Pure Fat Grafting
- Face Contouring
- Buccal Fat Removal
- Facial Feminization
- Jaw Reduction
- Jaw Bone Shaving
- Cheek Reduction
- Precision Lift
- Chin Augmentation
- Lip Enhancement
- Rhinoplasty
- Asian Rhinoplasty
Table of Contents
- 1. What is a Facelift?
- 2. The Benefits of a Facelift
- 3. Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
- 4. Facelift Techniques at Wave
- 5. Why Patients Trust Wave Surgeons
- 6. The Consultation Experience
- 7. Cost and Financing Options
- 8. Recovery, Longevity & Maintenance
- 9. Real Results & Testimonials
- 10. Begin Your Transformation
- 11. Types of Facelifts
Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
Conveniently located in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco.
You glance in the mirror and notice the subtle shifts — a softer jawline, fuller nasolabial folds, a tired expression that doesn’t match your energy or confidence. You’ve invested in skincare, tried fillers, and even nonsurgical lifts, yet something still feels missing.
That “something” is structure.
At Wave Plastic Surgery, our surgeons specialize in facelift techniques that lift, reposition, and restore the deeper layers of the face for results that look refined, youthful, and beautifully natural. We don’t just chase years — we rebuild confidence.
Restore definition. Refine contours. Reimagine yourself.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure designed to restore the youthful contours of your face by lifting and repositioning the deeper layers beneath the skin — where true aging begins.
Over time, gravity, sun exposure, and collagen loss weaken the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) — a thin yet powerful layer that connects facial muscles to the skin. As this internal support softens, the cheeks flatten, jowls appear, and skin around the jawline and neck begins to sag.
Wave Plastic Surgery’s approach addresses this from the inside out. Rather than pulling or stretching the surface skin, our surgeons lift and tighten the underlying SMAS layer and remove only the necessary excess skin to preserve a natural look. This creates smooth, sculpted contours that move and age gracefully over time.
The deep-plane facelift, one of our most advanced methods, goes even further by releasing and repositioning deeper facial tissues for a soft, youthful transition between the midface, jawline, and neck. This technique is particularly effective for patients seeking dramatic yet natural improvement with long-term longevity — often lasting 10–15 years.
At Wave, we also specialize in endoscopic techniques — minimally invasive approaches performed through small incisions hidden in the hairline. Using high-definition visualization, your surgeon can make precise adjustments with less swelling and faster recovery.
Whether you’re seeking early correction or full rejuvenation, your facelift is carefully mapped to your anatomy and aesthetic goals — because the most beautiful results are those that look entirely your own.
The Benefits of a Facelift
A facelift isn’t just about reversing time — it’s about restoring the version of yourself that reflects how you truly feel. For many patients, this transformation goes far beyond aesthetics. It’s the quiet return of confidence, self-assurance, and the freedom to move through the world without feeling like your face tells a different story than the one you’re living.
As we age, collagen production slows, facial fat shifts downward, and skin begins to lose its firmness. The cheeks flatten, jowls form, and the once-sharp definition of the jawline softens. A facelift addresses these changes at their source — lifting and restoring the deeper facial structure to create natural, long-lasting rejuvenation.
Visible improvements include:
- A smoother, firmer complexion without the “over-tightened” look
- Lifted cheeks and midface for renewed fullness
- A sharper, more sculpted jawline
- Reduced sagging along the neck and under the chin
- Improved harmony between facial features
Emotional and lifestyle benefits:
- Renewed confidence in photos and professional environments
- A rejuvenated presence that helps you look as energetic as you feel
- The ability to enjoy lasting results — typically 10 to 15 years — that evolve gracefully with time
Unlike temporary treatments, a facelift is a structural investment in your appearance — restoring definition, balance, and expression in a way that looks effortless.
At Wave Plastic Surgery, every facelift is personalized to your anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring results that not only look youthful, but unmistakably you.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
A facelift is for individuals who feel youthful, vibrant, and engaged in life — but see a reflection that no longer matches how they feel inside. If you find yourself avoiding photos, lifting your cheeks when you look in the mirror, or wishing your jawline looked as defined as it once did, it may be time to consider a more lasting solution.
You may be an ideal candidate for facelift surgery if you:
- Notice sagging skin, jowls, or folds around the mouth and jawline
- Feel that fillers and non-surgical treatments no longer achieve meaningful lift
- Maintain good general health and realistic expectations
- Desire natural, long-lasting results that don’t change your expression
While most facelift patients are between their 40s and 70s, age alone isn’t the deciding factor — it’s the quality of the skin and underlying tissue. Patients in their 30s and early 40s often choose mini or endoscopic facelifts as proactive treatments to maintain definition and slow visible aging.
At Wave Plastic Surgery, we also tailor techniques for different facial structures and ethnicities, understanding that balance and harmony look different on every individual. Our surgeons specialize in achieving results that respect your unique anatomy, features, and heritage — whether you’re seeking subtle refinement or a full rejuvenation.
Your journey starts with a conversation — and ends with a reflection that finally feels aligned with who you are.
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 Techniques at Wave Plastic Surgery
At Wave Plastic Surgery, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all facelift. Every face tells a unique story — shaped by genetics, lifestyle, and how time interacts with your features. That’s why we offer a full range of facelift techniques, from minimally invasive endoscopic lifts to comprehensive deep-plane rejuvenation, ensuring each patient receives a tailored solution that matches their anatomy, goals, and recovery preferences.
Each procedure is performed by our board-certified surgeons using advanced visualization technology and delicate precision to create results that look natural — never overdone.
| Technique | Best For | Focus Area | Key Benefits | Typical Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Endoscopic Mid-Face Lift | Early aging, cheek descent | Midface | Small incisions hidden in the hairline; uses a camera-assisted technique to lift sagging tissues and restore cheek contour | 7–10 days |
| Wave Lift (Endoscopic Facelift) | Mild to moderate midface laxity | Midface | Combines full visualization with minimal incision; ideal for those not yet ready for a full facelift; delivers natural lift through advanced endoscopic access | ~10 days |
| CureLift™ S | Moderate aging with mild jowling | Midface & lower cheeks | Modified SMAS approach emphasizing subtle, elegant rejuvenation with minimal downtime | 10–14 days |
| CureLift™ XL | Aging extending into jawline and neck | Midface + neck | Comprehensive improvement with less bruising and shorter recovery; can often be performed under local anesthesia | 10–14 days |
| SMAS Facelift | Advanced sagging, deep folds, and neck laxity | Midface + lower face + neck | Repositions muscle and fat layers for the most transformative, longest-lasting results (10–15 years); restores youthful volume and sharper definition | ~4 - 5 weeks |
Our surgeons may also recommend neck lift, chin augmentation, or fat grafting for a more complete transformation.
The artistry of a Wave facelift lies in subtlety — enhancing your natural anatomy, not changing it. Every procedure is designed to restore youthful structure and radiant balance while keeping your expression completely authentic.
Why Patients Trust Wave Surgeons
Choosing the right surgeon is the single most important decision in your facelift journey. Skill determines precision — but trust defines experience. At Wave Plastic Surgery, our surgeons are known not only for their technical mastery, but for their integrity, artistry, and commitment to delivering results that honor your individuality.
Dr. Peter Lee, MD, FACS, founder and medical director, is a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized internationally for pioneering modern, minimally invasive facelift techniques. With over 20 years of experience and thousands of facial rejuvenation procedures performed, Dr. Lee has redefined what’s possible in natural lifting results.
He’s the innovator behind the CureLift™ and Wave Lift, both developed to deliver powerful rejuvenation with less downtime and scarring than traditional approaches. His expertise bridges both Eastern and Western facial aesthetics — a distinction that allows him to achieve harmony across diverse features and facial structures.
Why discerning patients across Orange County and Los Angeles choose Wave:
- Board-certified surgeons with specialized training in endoscopic and deep-plane techniques
- Accredited surgical centers offering hospital-level safety and comfort
- A collaborative approach where each plan is customized, never cookie-cutter
- Hundreds of five-star patient reviews and a 4.9/5 satisfaction rating across all locations
The Consultation Experience
Your consultation at Wave Plastic Surgery is more than a conversation about your face — it’s the beginning of your transformation journey. Many patients tell us they arrive feeling uncertain, but leave feeling informed, confident, and excited to take the next step.
During your private, one-on-one consultation, you’ll meet directly with one of our board-certified surgeons who will take time to understand your aesthetic goals, lifestyle, and concerns. Using advanced 3D imaging technology, your surgeon can evaluate facial proportions and simulate potential outcomes, helping you visualize subtle yet powerful enhancements before surgery even begins.
What to expect during your consultation:
• A detailed facial analysis, focusing on volume, skin elasticity, and muscle tone
• Review of treatment options — from minimally invasive lifts to full facial rejuvenation
• Personalized surgical recommendations tailored to your anatomy and schedule
• Transparent discussion of recovery time, cost, and available financing options
Every step of the process is designed around your comfort and trust. Your surgeon will explain every detail, from anesthesia type to incision placement, ensuring you fully understand your options.
You’ll never experience high-pressure sales tactics — just honest guidance from experts who genuinely want to help you look and feel your best.
Your journey begins with clarity and confidence.
Cost and Financing Options
Investing in a facelift is an investment in yourself — in your confidence, your presence, and the way you show up in the world. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we believe transparency builds trust, so we take the time to explain every factor that influences your facelift cost before you make a decision.
The average cost of a facelift at Wave typically ranges between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on your specific needs, the complexity of your procedure, and whether it’s combined with complementary treatments such as a neck lift, fat grafting, or eyelid surgery.
Your personalized quote will include all surgical, anesthesia, and facility fees — ensuring there are no hidden costs.
Financing & payment options:
- Flexible monthly payments
- Special pricing during seasonal promotions and events
- Custom procedure packages for comprehensive facial rejuvenation
While many non-surgical options require ongoing maintenance, a facelift delivers a decade or more of lasting results, making it one of the most cost-effective rejuvenation procedures available.
At Wave, your investment is protected by world-class care, artistry, and the confidence that comes from knowing you chose one of the most trusted names in aesthetic surgery.
Recovery, Longevity & Maintenance
The recovery process is often where confidence turns into excitement. At Wave Plastic Surgery, your facelift journey is supported from the moment you leave the operating room — because true rejuvenation isn’t just about how you look, but how you heal.
Most patients describe the recovery experience as surprisingly manageable, thanks to advanced surgical techniques and personalized aftercare plans designed to minimize swelling and bruising.
Your Typical Recovery Timeline:
- Days 1–3: You’ll rest with your head elevated and use cool compresses to reduce swelling. Most patients experience mild tightness, but little to no pain.
- Days 5–10: Sutures are removed. Bruising begins to fade, and you’ll start to recognize your new contours.
- Weeks 2–3: You’ll feel comfortable returning to work and social activities. Swelling continues to decrease, revealing refined definition.
- Months 1–3: Final results settle in, skin texture improves, and incision lines soften beautifully.
Most patients return to normal daily routines within two weeks, looking naturally refreshed — not “surgical.”
Longevity and Maintenance
Results from a Wave facelift typically last 10 to 15 years, depending on lifestyle and genetics. Patients often say the results age gracefully — you’ll always look younger than you would have without surgery.
To extend your results, your surgeon may recommend ongoing care through our Ultherapy or Morpheus8 RF treatments, along with medical-grade skincare to support collagen renewal.
Emotional Recovery
For many, the most meaningful part of recovery is rediscovering joy in their reflection. Around the three-week mark, patients often share how empowering it feels to “see themselves again.”
“Dr. Peter Lee has been fantastic every time. No o e in the industry pays as close attention to detail as him. Truly an aesthetic artist. The staff and nurses are warm, so kind and patient with all my questions. Love this place for everything. ✅”
– Suzette M., Verified Google Review
Your transformation doesn’t end after surgery — it evolves beautifully with time, guided by care that never stops once you leave our center.
Real Results & Testimonials
Real transformations speak louder than any promise. At Wave Plastic Surgery, every facelift result reflects the careful balance between surgical precision and artistic vision — creating outcomes that enhance your natural beauty rather than change it.
Our patients come from all walks of life — professionals, parents, and individuals who simply wanted to feel like themselves again. Each one shares the same goal: a refreshed, confident, naturally youthful appearance.
Visit our Facelift Before & After Gallery to explore real patient transformations, showcasing results across diverse ages, facial structures, and ethnicities. You’ll notice smoother contours, refined jawlines, and more radiant expressions — always true to who they are.
Begin Your Transformation
Your reflection should remind you of your strength, vitality, and confidence — not time passed. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we help patients rediscover the version of themselves that feels authentic, radiant, and empowered.
Whether you’re seeking subtle rejuvenation or a comprehensive transformation, our surgeons are here to guide you with compassion, artistry, and expertise. Each facelift is more than a procedure — it’s a personal journey back to confidence and connection with yourself.
Patients across Orange County, Los Angeles, and Southern California trust Wave for results that are elegant, natural, and enduring. From your first consultation to your final reveal, our team is dedicated to ensuring your comfort, safety, and satisfaction.
Now is the time to look as youthful as you feel.
📍 Wave Plastic Surgery proudly serves patients in Orange County, Arcadia, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
📞 Call (888) 674-3001 or schedule your visit online to begin your transformation.
Get Your Consultation Today
Give us a call today to schedule your consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.
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.
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.
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?
Our surgeons use advanced hidden incision techniques, placing incisions within natural creases—behind the ears, along the hairline, or under the chin—to keep scarring minimal and discreet. With proper healing, scars fade significantly and become nearly imperceptible over time.
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?
The cost of a facelift varies depending on the type of procedure performed, the surgeon’s skill and expertise, and the additional treatments included. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed cost breakdown and discuss available financing options to help make your procedure more accessible.
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.
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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