When one thinks of plastic surgery, “facelifts” are among the first things that might come to their mind.
There’s good reason for this. Facelifts have been around for over 100 years, and in that time, the technology and methodology have advanced dramatically.
However, this long history also comes with a wide array of myths and misunderstandings that have developed over the years.
In our time performing facelifts in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area, we’ve heard every bit of misinformation out there about facelifts. That’s why, in this article, we’re going to break down the most common myths about facelifts, as well as the truth behind the fiction.
Myth 1: Facelifts Leave You Looking “Overdone”
One of the biggest fears that patients have about facelifts is that it will leave them looking like they’ve “had work done.” In general, this feeling is referring to the tight, unnatural appearance that could be found using some older facelift methods.
This stereotype does not reflect modern practices. The surgeons of today, like Dr. Mark Bosbous, utilize advanced methods that prioritize a natural look, addressing not just sagging skin but also the underlying structures of the face.
By repositioning facial tissues and ensuring balanced proportions, modern facelifts can create subtle, yet wholly transformative results — leaving patients looking younger and refreshed, not like they’ve “had work done.”
Myth 2: Facelifts Are Only for the Elderly
Many people believe that facelifts are exclusively for people in their 60s or older. This idea is so common, in fact, that we’ve written a whole article about it!
In short, everyone from people in their early 30s to those in their 60s can find benefits from a facelift. Those on the younger side may benefit from preventative facelifts or “mini” facelifts to keep their skin looking young and fresh, while those who are older may find that a facelift can help them take on more prominent signs of aging, such as deep lines and sagging skin.
Myth 3: Facelifts Are Only About the Face
Not true! While the main focus of a facelift is, understandably, the face, the mission of a skilled plastic surgeon is to make your refreshed face appear natural. This is why some surgeons may also perform additional work on the neck, or recommend that a patient add another procedure like a brow lift or eyelid surgery to ensure there’s full harmony across the face.
During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will go through all of their recommendations based on your specific desires, which could include one or multiple procedures.
Myth 4: Facelifts Are Only for Women
While women have historically been the primary demographic for facelifts, men are increasingly seeking this procedure as well. According to the American Academy of Plastic Surgeons (AAPS), cosmetic procedures on men increased by 207% between 2019 and 2022 — and many of those procedures included facelifts.
No matter one’s gender, it’s important to discuss your desired outcomes with your surgeon. For example, a woman may want her face to have a softer, more rounded appearance, while a man seeking a facelift may want to emphasize their more masculine features.
Myth 5: The Recovery Process Is Long and Painful
This is a persistent myth across many procedures, not just facelifts. However, the fact of the matter is that most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the process is.
While some swelling and bruising will likely occur in the first two weeks, advancements in surgical techniques and post-operative care have significantly reduced the amount of downtime required post-procedure, as well as much of the discomfort.
In fact, many patients find that they can return to work or social activities within 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the extent of their procedure and how well they adhered to their surgeon’s aftercare instructions.
Myth 6: Non-Surgical Treatments Are Just as Effective
We have a lot of love for non-surgical treatments like Botox and dermal fillers. They’re an excellent method for addressing early signs of aging or targeting specific concerns, and we recommend them in a wide variety of cases.
However, these treatments cannot achieve the same dramatic and long-lasting results as a facelift. While non-surgical options are less invasive and require little to no downtime, they’re often temporary and may require maintenance.
That’s why a facelift remains the gold standard for addressing significant sagging and restoring the natural, youthful contours of your face.
Conclusion
Facelifts are a highly effective solution for those seeking to rejuvenate their appearance.
By understanding the realities of this procedure, you can make a well-informed decision about whether a facelift is right for you — and we hope that this article helped you do just that.
If you’re interested in a facelift, or just have questions about the procedure, reach out to our offices today.