A facelift and dermal fillers serve different purposes when it comes to facial rejuvenation. While a facelift provides a more permanent solution for sagging skin, jowls, and the lower third of the face, fillers are non-surgical and used to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and improve facial contours. Fillers can be a great option for minor signs of aging, while a facelift is typically recommended for more advanced cases of facial aging. Both procedures can be complementary, with some patients opting for fillers after their facelift to maintain their results over time.

BOTOX and a facelift are both effective for addressing facial aging, but they work in different ways. BOTOX targets dynamic wrinkles caused by facial muscle movements, such as frown lines and crow’s feet, temporarily relaxing the muscles. In contrast, a facelift addresses sagging skin and deep folds, particularly in the lower face, by lifting and tightening the underlying tissues. BOTOX is often used in conjunction with a facelift to enhance the overall rejuvenation, focusing on the upper face, while the facelift works on the lower face.

Facelift vs. Threading

Thread lifting, a minimally invasive procedure, uses threads to lift and tighten the skin, offering a less invasive alternative to a full facelift. While threading can provide subtle lifting and improved skin texture, it does not address the deeper structural changes that a facelift can achieve. Facelifts are typically more effective for patients with significant sagging and loss of facial volume, offering longer-lasting and more dramatic results compared to threading.

Facelift vs. Microneedling

Microneedling is a non-surgical treatment that stimulates collagen production by creating tiny micro-injuries in the skin. This can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and promote a youthful glow. However, microneedling is best suited for patients with mild to moderate signs of aging. Conversely, a facelift is more effective for those with advanced sagging and deep facial folds. Both treatments can be used together for enhanced results, with microneedling complementing the facelift by improving skin quality and texture post-surgery.

Is a Facelift Painful?

Facelift surgery is performed under anesthesia so that you will sleep peacefully during the procedure. Afterward, swelling, bruising, and soreness can cause mild discomfort, but these symptoms can be controlled with prescription pain medications. Most patients find they can switch to over-the-counter painkillers within the first week after their surgery.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Patients typically require 7-10 follow-up visits or more if needed. Standard follow-up milestones include one day after surgery, one week, two weeks, one month, three months, six months, one year, two years, five years, and ten years. These appointments allow Dr. Valina to monitor healing, address any concerns, and ensure optimal long-term results.

How Long Until I See Results?

Your Miami facelift results will typically finalize within 2-4 weeks as residual swelling slowly dissipates. Most patients feel comfortable going out in public within 1-3 weeks.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Facelift scars are very well hidden within the fine folds of the ears and the scalp. Dr. Valina understands the importance of well-camouflaged incisions and does everything possible to place them in inconspicuous areas.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Facelift?

Most patients can expect to resume exercise after about three months. However, every person is different, and Dr. Valina will make the final determination regarding your recovery timeline.

Can I Combine a Facelift With Other Procedures?

Yes. Combining a facelift with chin and neck liposuction , facial fat transfer, or blepharoplasty is common. During your private consultation in Miami, Dr. Valina will discuss your options for a combination treatment plan in more detail.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Facelift?

Complications are rare when you choose a precision-oriented, triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Valina in Miami. However, all surgeries come with inherent risks. For a facelift, these include but are not limited to the following: Swelling Bruising Bleeding Infection Asymmetry Poor reactions to anesthesia Fluid retention Nerve damage Skin discoloration Poor scarring

How Do I Find the Best Miami Facelift Plastic Surgeon Near Me?

Engaging in an in-depth assessment is important to choose the best plastic surgeon. This includes reviewing your surgeon’s qualifications, board certifications, training, awards, testimonials, and before and after photographs, all of which the surgeon should make readily available to you. Additionally, it is critical that you have a good rapport with your provider and feel you can ask questions and receive frank, transparent answers. Dr. Valina invites you to schedule a private consultation in Miami to learn more about her innovative and compassionate approach. Dr. Valina is a triple-board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon who emphasizes elegant, natural-looking changes tailored to your wishes.

Miami, FL

Facelift

Introduction

Introduction to Facelift

A facelift is a gold-standard surgical procedure for combating signs of aging. It is a powerful solution for midface sagging, jowls, nasolabial folds, and loss of definition in the jawline. A well-performed facelift can improve one’s self-image and provide one with the confidence one desires in social and professional settings. Dr. Grace Valina, an award-winning, triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Miami, FL, focuses on nuanced results that preserve individuality and facial spontaneity while tackling imperfections that cause self-consciousness.

What is a Facelift?

A facelift, medically referred to as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure that addresses signs of aging in the lower third of the face. It is often paired with neck liposuction, a brow lift, or a blepharoplasty procedure to provide more comprehensive outcomes. During your surgery in Miami, Dr. Valina removes excess drooping skin, reshaping the cheeks and jawline to improve facial harmony and balance. Nasolabial folds and jowls can also be corrected. Unlike energy-based treatments and fillers, a surgical facelift provides a profound, lasting transformation that can significantly enhance self-confidence and quality of life.

A rhytidectomy is often performed in conjunction with other facelift-adjacent cosmetic procedures, such as a Brow Lift, an Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery), a Neck Lift, and a Rhinoplasty (Nose Job).

Facelift Techniques

Mini-Facelift

A mini-facelift is an excellent solution for younger patients who are just beginning to notice signs of aging in their cheeks and jawline. The surgery has a smaller incision and reduced downtime, yet it still produces a more refreshed, youthful appearance.

Deep Plane Facelift

A deep plane facelift targets the underlying fibrous tissue network in the face, the SMAS (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System), to produce more dramatic and natural-looking changes than are typically possible with conventional surgical methods.

Liquid Facelift

For patients who do not wish to take surgical risks, Dr. Valina can perform a non-surgical (liquid) facelift with dermal fillers and neuromodulators to correct volume loss, wrinkles, lines, and asymmetry. Younger patients can undergo a liquid facelift and then choose its surgical counterpart if needed.

What are the benefits of a facelift?

Miami patients who choose triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Valina enjoy the following noteworthy benefits when undergoing a facelift:

Tighter, firmer skin
A sharper, crisper jawline
Correction of nasolabial folds and jowls
Improved balance among the features
A more youthful-looking, attractive countenance
A boost in self-confidence and self-esteem

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Facelift?

Facelift surgery is typically recommended for patients in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who are unhappy with signs of aging that make them look older than they feel. They may have tried non-surgical solutions and topical anti-aging products in the past with some success but now desire the long-lasting, comprehensive changes provided by a surgical facelift. In general, ideal candidates are healthy, non-smoking individuals who are not currently dealing with any uncontrolled medical concerns. Additionally, patients should have realistic expectations for their results based on their in-depth consultation with Dr. Valina in Miami, FL.

What’s the First Step?

Your Facelift Journey with Grace surgical Arts

To get started on your cosmetic journey, you will meet with Dr. Valina for a private consultation at her state-of-the-art practice in Miami. This initial visit will be used to complete a thorough physical evaluation and medical review. Dr. Valina will review your current medications, allergies, and pre-existing conditions to confirm that a facelift will be a safe, successful approach to meeting your cosmetic goals.

After your candidacy has been approved and your surgery date is booked, Dr. Valina and her team will provide you with detailed preparation instructions to follow. You may be asked to discontinue certain medications that might increase surgical or recovery risks. Because the surgery is performed under anesthesia, you will need to schedule someone to drive you home and assist you ahead of time. It’s also a good idea to fill any prescriptions the doctor provides in advance.

What to Expect on the Day of Facelift Surgery

Facelift surgery in Miami is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the entire procedure. Once you are asleep, Dr. Valina will make careful, precise incisions, typically placed within the natural folds of the ears and extending into the hairline, ensuring that any scarring is discreet and well-hidden. Depending on your unique needs and goals, Dr. Valina may choose a traditional facelift approach or combine it with a deep plane facelift to target deeper layers of the skin and underlying muscle tissue.

After making the incisions, Dr. Valina will lift and tighten the deeper layers of the face, including the muscles and connective tissue, to restore a youthful, lifted appearance. Excess sagging skin will be removed, and facial contours will be refined for a more sculpted jawline and smoother cheeks. If necessary, Dr. Valina may also use chin or neck liposuction to remove excess fat and refine the neck area for a more defined and harmonious facial profile. These techniques work together to create a natural-looking result that improves both the aesthetics and function of the face.

Once the adjustments are complete, the incisions will be carefully closed using advanced suturing techniques designed to minimize scarring and promote optimal healing. A bandage will be applied to your face to protect the surgical site and help with the initial recovery. Throughout the entire process, your vital signs will be continuously monitored to ensure your safety and comfort. After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room, where you will be closely monitored until you are ready to go home.

Facelift Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Facelift Care

After surgery, your face will be bandaged, and you may be fitted with surgical drains, which help to escort excess fluids out of the body. You will be sent home with a detailed aftercare plan that includes instructions for wound care, showering and bathing, sleeping, resuming exercise, and eventually returning to work. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are normal reactions after a facelift. Rest assured, these side effects will peak in the first week and then gradually subside. You can take prescription pain medications to help offset discomfort and soreness.

Sleep with your head elevated at first to reduce swelling. While you can take gentle walks right away after your procedure to encourage circulation and prevent complications like clotting, you are advised to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks. If any questions or concerns emerge during your healing process, don’t hesitate to immediately contact Dr. Valina and her team in Miami, FL, for a prompt response.

How Much Does a Facelift Cost in Miami, FL?

A facelift in Coral Gables and Miami costs about $9500 to $18000, while a liquid facelift can cost anywhere between $500 and $5000. Keep in mind that pricing will vary depending on the exact techniques Dr. Valina uses, the extent of the work required, and whether you undergo any additional treatments in tandem with your procedure. After completing your physical assessment and in-depth medical review, you will receive a detailed quote for services and information about financing.

Does Insurance Cover a Facelift?

Insurance coverage for a facelift depends on your specific plan and whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary. However, most cosmetic surgeries are not covered. At Grace Surgical Arts, patients are responsible for covering the cost upfront and may seek reimbursement from their insurance provider if they meet the eligibility criteria. It’s always best to check with your insurance company beforehand to understand your coverage options.

Why Choose Dr. Valina?

Dr. Joan Grace Valina is an award-winning, triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon with an extensive and elite training background. Her education included mentorship from among the most respected aesthetic authorities around the globe, including those in the US, Russia, Germany, and the Philippines, who provided her with a global mindset when it comes to the science of beauty. In terms of her approach to care, Dr. Valina insists on the highest degree of safety, customization, and personalized attention. Each procedure is uniquely tailored to the individual’s anatomy, healing capabilities, comfort levels, and cosmetic sensibilities.

Dr. Valina values education and does everything possible to empower patients with the knowledge and information they need to make the right decisions for their ultimate well-being and peace of mind. Her collaborative, inclusive approach leads to impressive and satisfying results. Patients in and beyond Miami, FL, consistently choose Dr. Valina for her artistry, compassion, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Facelift FAQ’S

A facelift and dermal fillers serve different purposes when it comes to facial rejuvenation. While a facelift provides a more permanent solution for sagging skin, jowls, and the lower third of the face, fillers are non-surgical and used to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and improve facial contours. Fillers can be a great option for minor signs of aging, while a facelift is typically recommended for more advanced cases of facial aging. Both procedures can be complementary, with some patients opting for fillers after their facelift to maintain their results over time.
BOTOX and a facelift are both effective for addressing facial aging, but they work in different ways. BOTOX targets dynamic wrinkles caused by facial muscle movements, such as frown lines and crow’s feet, temporarily relaxing the muscles. In contrast, a facelift addresses sagging skin and deep folds, particularly in the lower face, by lifting and tightening the underlying tissues. BOTOX is often used in conjunction with a facelift to enhance the overall rejuvenation, focusing on the upper face, while the facelift works on the lower face.
Thread lifting, a minimally invasive procedure, uses threads to lift and tighten the skin, offering a less invasive alternative to a full facelift. While threading can provide subtle lifting and improved skin texture, it does not address the deeper structural changes that a facelift can achieve. Facelifts are typically more effective for patients with significant sagging and loss of facial volume, offering longer-lasting and more dramatic results compared to threading.
Microneedling is a non-surgical treatment that stimulates collagen production by creating tiny micro-injuries in the skin. This can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and promote a youthful glow. However, microneedling is best suited for patients with mild to moderate signs of aging. Conversely, a facelift is more effective for those with advanced sagging and deep facial folds. Both treatments can be used together for enhanced results, with microneedling complementing the facelift by improving skin quality and texture post-surgery.
Facelift surgery is performed under anesthesia so that you will sleep peacefully during the procedure. Afterward, swelling, bruising, and soreness can cause mild discomfort, but these symptoms can be controlled with prescription pain medications. Most patients find they can switch to over-the-counter painkillers within the first week after their surgery.
Complications are rare when you choose a precision-oriented, triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Valina in Miami. However, all surgeries come with inherent risks. For a facelift, these include but are not limited to the following:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Asymmetry
- Poor reactions to anesthesia
- Fluid retention
- Nerve damage
- Skin discoloration
- Poor scarring
Engaging in an in-depth assessment is important to choose the best plastic surgeon. This includes reviewing your surgeon’s qualifications, board certifications, training, awards, testimonials, and before and after photographs, all of which the surgeon should make readily available to you. Additionally, it is critical that you have a good rapport with your provider and feel you can ask questions and receive frank, transparent answers. Dr. Valina invites you to schedule a private consultation in Miami to learn more about her innovative and compassionate approach. Dr. Valina is a triple-board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon who emphasizes elegant, natural-looking changes tailored to your wishes.

Grace Surgical Arts

Schedule Your Consultation

Ready to learn more about how facelift surgery can rewind the clocking on aging and provide you with a refreshed, rejuvenated appearance? Contact Dr. Valina in Miami, Florida, today to set up a private consultation and get started on the path to enhanced confidence and well-being.

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