Facelift
Aging doesn’t change who you are. But it can leave behind visible signs that don't match the energy and vitality you still feel. Modern facelift surgery offers a refined way to restore structure and suppleness to your features for a more radiant, youthful appearance.
At Lee A. Gibstein M.D. Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery patients receive highly personalized care from a master of his craft. With advanced training at Harvard, NYU, and Mount Sinai, Dr. Gibstein has spent nearly three decades cultivating her technique, blending an artistic eye with sophisticated surgical skill. He works alongside each patient to design a surgical plan tailored to their needs, for long-lasting results that enhance their natural beauty and their confidence.
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that repositions facial tissues and removes excess skin to restore definition to the face and neck. It's often performed to address jowls, nasolabial folds, and descent of the midface.
Many patients benefit from the sophisticated technique known as a deep plane facelift, which focuses on releasing and elevating the deeper tissues beneath the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). Unlike more superficial lifts, this technique works beneath the surface to lift facial muscles and reestablish youthful volume without tension on the skin. A facelift procedure may be combined with other procedures like an eyelid lift, brow lift, or fat transfer to provide balanced, full-face rejuvenation.
Everything begins with a thorough physical exam and consultation. Dr. Gibstein evaluates your soft tissues, bone structure, and any previous surgeries. During surgery, carefully hidden incision sites are placed around the ears, along the hairline, and within the natural creases. Through these access points, Dr. Gibstein repositions underlying tissues, lifts the SMAS, and may address excess fat or loose skin around the double chin and jawline. In some cases, a drainage tube is temporarily placed overnight to reduce fluid buildup.
Surgery is typically performed under IV sedation in our accredited AAAASF facility. Once the facial tissues are lifted and carefully redraped, the incisions are closed using advanced techniques to promote smooth healing. Patients return home the following day with a comprehensive aftercare plan in place.
Facelift surgery corrects multiple signs of the aging process that affect the face and neck, including:
Each facelift is tailored to the individual’s anatomy for a result that always looks like you, just more refreshed and rested.
The goal of a facelift is to restore a more youthful appearance that looks natural and authentic to the individual. Patients often describe looking “rested” or “like themselves again.” The results extend well beyond what non-surgical facial rejuvenation can provide.
Unlike short-term solutions, a surgical facelift corrects the descent of deeper facial tissues, not just superficial concerns. Patients can expect:
Facelift candidates are typically in their 40s to late 70s with moderate to advanced signs of aging. Candidates should being overall good health, non-smokers, and not taking contraindicated blood thinners or at risk of poor wound healing.
Dr. Gibstein will carefully review your lifestyle and medical history (including all prescription and over-the-counter medications) to ensure plastic surgery can be performed safely with minimal risk of complications. If you've had any other types of facial cosmetic surgery, Dr. Gibstein will review in depth all of your operative procedures to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and facial anatomy.
After surgery, patients are directed to rest with their head slightly elevated to minimize swelling and improve comfort. Initial bruising and tightness are normal, typically peaking around day three. If a drain is placed during surgery, it will be removed by Dr Gibstein the next morning
Patients are encouraged to avoid strenuous exercise, direct sun exposure, and any product or activity that may affect healing. Most people can return to non-physical tasks within 10–14 days and resume full social activity in 3–4 weeks. Dr. Gibstein remains closely involved in your care throughout the healing process.
Final facelift results emerge gradually over 3-4 months as swelling resolves. The most visible improvements, especially along the jawline, neck, and midface, can last up to 10–12 years.
Because Dr. Gibstein works with the deep plane and superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), your results are structurally supported and highly durable. They also age gracefully alongside you, preserving natural contours and expression.
Beyond the mirror, patients often describe feeling more aligned with how they see themselves. Restoring balance and definition not only enhances appearance but can also bring renewed confidence in personal, professional, and social settings.
Dr. Lee Gibstein is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with elite training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He performs every facelift procedure with consistency, artistry, and safety.
Serving Miami, Boynton Beach, and beyond, our boutique practice provides direct access, concierge recovery coordination, and a deeply personalized experience. Whether you're traveling from across town or across the globe, every detail of your care is curated around you.
A deep plane facelift lifts the skin and deeper tissues together, rather than tightening the skin alone. This technique addresses facial fat pads, facial muscles, and deeper ligaments for natural-looking, long-lasting results with imperceptible scars.
A mini facelift targets early jowls or sagging in the lower face with smaller incision sites and a shorter recovery time. It can be an ideal approach for patients in their 40s or early 50s who have good skin elasticity.
All surgery carries risks. In rare cases, complications such as permanent hair loss or issues with blood vessels, skin sensation, or nerve injury may occur. Dr. Gibstein takes extensive precautions to minimize risks.
Yes. Combining neck lift, eyelid surgery, or brow lift procedures can lead to a more balanced and comprehensive result.
A traditional facelift repositions the SMAS layer but doesn’t always address deeper ligaments. A deep plane approach works below that layer, creating smooth transitions between the midface, jawline, and neck.
A medical clearance should be obtained from your primary care physician to optimize your health. Our office will provide a detailed prep guide before surgery.
Visible improvements can be seen within 2–3 weeks. Final results develop over 3-4 months.
Some patients opt for a second facelift after 10–12 years, but many maintain excellent results for even longer periods with additional non-surgical care.
Incision sites are hidden along natural lines and contours of the face. With proper aftercare, they fade significantly and are often barely visible.
Costs vary based on surgical complexity and whether other procedures (like fat transfer or eyelid lift) are included. All pricing and financing options will be discussed during your consultation.
